This chicken burrito casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines all the flavors of a classic burrito in a convenient baked form. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, offering a satisfying mix of chicken, rice, beans, and cheese.
The recipe is simple and can be customized with your favorite toppings or ingredients. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken or to feed a crowd with minimal effort.
Overview of Chicken Burrito Casserole
This chicken burrito casserole brings together all the beloved flavors of a classic burrito, transforming them into a warm and comforting baked dish.
Perfect for family gatherings or meal prep, it offers a delightful combination of shredded chicken, rice, black beans, and cheese, all enveloped in a zesty salsa.
With its hearty ingredients and satisfying flavors, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Shredded chicken serves as the star, providing protein and heartiness, while cooked rice adds a comforting base.
Black beans and corn contribute texture and a hint of sweetness, perfectly complemented by the vibrant salsa and spices like chili powder and cumin.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this casserole is a straightforward process that takes just about 50 minutes from start to finish.
Begin by preheating your oven and mixing the key ingredients in a large bowl.
Layering the mixture in a greased baking dish ensures even cooking and a delightful melty cheese topping.
Baking to Perfection
Once assembled, the casserole is covered with foil and baked to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
After 30 minutes, removing the foil lets the cheese bubble and turn golden, creating an irresistible topping.
Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set, making it easier to dish out portions.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is not just a meal on its own; it pairs wonderfully with a colorful side salad for a fresh contrast.
Garnishing with fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Consider serving it with tortilla chips or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Nutrition and Serving Size
Each serving of this chicken burrito casserole is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
With about 350 calories per serving, it fits well into a variety of dietary plans.
Serving six, this dish is perfect for families or gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
This casserole features layers of seasoned chicken, rice, black beans, and cheese, all baked together until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the chicken mixture evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. Add the remaining chicken mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g