If you’re searching for a satisfying weeknight meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table, look no further than this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole. It brings together all the best comforts of a classic burrito—tender chicken, melty cheese, beans, and zesty rice—tucked into a bubbling hot bake that takes minimal effort and delivers big-time flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something deliciously cheesy, this casserole is about to become your new go-to dinner star.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole lies in its everyday ingredients, which magically blend to create layers of taste and color. Each component adds its own special touch, ensuring every bite is rich, satisfying, and a little bit fun.
- Cooked shredded chicken (3 cups): Rotisserie chicken makes this step a breeze, or use leftover chicken from another meal.
- Black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): These add creaminess and a little earthy balance to all the bright flavors.
- Corn kernels (1 cup): Fresh, canned, or frozen work—just be sure to drain well for the sweetest pop of color and crunch.
- Salsa (1 cup): The saucy base that brings tang, heat, and loads of personality—mild or spicy, your call!
- Sour cream (1 cup): This keeps everything wonderfully creamy and helps tie the ingredients together.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): The essential seasoning for that unmistakable southwestern aroma.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and a mild kick to keep things interesting without overwhelming spice.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a savory undertone that boosts every other flavor in the dish.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Just enough to balance and enhance all the yummy elements.
- Cooked rice (2 cups): White or brown rice both work here, providing hearty substance and soaking up all the saucy goodness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend (1 1/2 cups): For that irresistible melt and bronzed topping we all crave!
- Flour tortillas (6 large, cut into strips): The magic layer that gives every slice burrito vibes and a delicate chewiness.
- Green onions and cilantro (for garnish, optional): Brighten every serving with a sprinkle of fresh, herby color.
How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
First things first: set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled. While that’s warming, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a bit of oil or butter—this makes cleanup easier and ensures nothing sticks, so you scoop up every last gooey bite.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Grab a big mixing bowl and toss in the shredded chicken, rinsed black beans, corn, salsa, sour cream, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated in that irresistible sauce. Now, fold in the cooked rice and one cup of shredded cheese. The result should be thick, creamy, and extremely tempting (try not to sneak a bite… or do!).
Step 3: Layer the Tortillas and Filling
Time for a little burrito magic. Scatter half the tortilla strips across the bottom of your dish, gently overlapping them so the base is nicely covered. Spoon on half the chicken mixture and spread it out evenly. Repeat the layers: the rest of the tortilla strips, then the rest of the chicken mixture. This creates that bubbly, burrito-in-every-bite effect.
Step 4: Add the Final Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the remaining half-cup of shredded cheese all over the top. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot—after baking, those golden pools of cheese will be the first thing everyone fights for!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and slide it into the hot oven. Let it bake for 20 minutes, allowing everything inside to get steamy and hot. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is gloriously melted and browned in spots. As tough as it may be, let your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing in. This makes serving cleaner and keeps all those flavors locked in each layer.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
Garnishes
A finishing touch goes a long way! Sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh cilantro over each serving of Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole for a bright pop of color and fresh flavor. Want to really wow your guests? Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a squeeze of lime for zesty flair.
Side Dishes
Pair your casserole with a simple green salad tossed with lime vinaigrette or crunchy shredded cabbage for balance. Warm tortilla chips, guacamole, and a bowl of pico de gallo also make delightful sides that turn dinner into a festive, family-style feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For game nights or casual get-togethers, cut the Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole into small squares and serve as grab-and-go bites on a platter, toothpicks included. Or, let everyone build their own burrito bowl: pile casserole chunks over more rice, lettuce, or tortilla chips, then offer a topping bar with diced tomatoes, avocado, and extra salsa.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole (lucky you!), transfer cooled portions to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days—perfect for those “what’s for lunch?” moments.
Freezing
This casserole actually gets better after a freeze-and-reheat session. Assemble, bake, and cool it completely, then wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Slide it into the freezer for up to 2 months. When you crave it, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until hot all the way through.
Reheating
For best results, reheat single portions in the microwave, covered, until piping hot. To re-crisp the top, pop slices under the broiler for a minute or two. Reheating the whole casserole? Bake at 350°F, covered, until steamy throughout, then uncover for the last few minutes to melt the cheese again.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is not only a time-saver but also adds fantastic flavor. Just shred it up and you’re halfway to an amazing casserole dinner.
What type Main Course
Any salsa you love will shine—chunky, smooth, smoky, or spicy. Feel free to experiment; just remember that a thicker salsa will yield a less runny casserole, while a thinner one makes things extra saucy.
Is it possible to make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap in additional beans, sautéed peppers, onions, or mushrooms for the chicken, and keep everything else the same for a delicious meat-free version.
Can I prep Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.
What’s the best way to customize the spice level?
For mild heat, use a gentle salsa and leave out the jalapeños. Want things hotter? Add chopped jalapeños, extra chili powder, or serve with spicy hot sauce to turn up the fire.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tried this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole, I’m willing to bet it’ll take a regular spot on your dinner rotation. It’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and as easy as can be—so why not give it a whirl this week and share the love? Happy cooking!
Print
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a delicious and comforting Mexican-inspired dish that the whole family will love. Layers of shredded chicken, beans, corn, and rice are flavored with spices, salsa, and cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection. It’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
- 6 large flour tortillas, cut into strips
For garnish:
- Chopped green onions and cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, sour cream, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked rice and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Layer the casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer half of the tortilla strips in the bottom, then spread half of the chicken mixture over them. Repeat with remaining tortilla strips and chicken mixture. Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions and cilantro if desired.
Notes
- This dish is a great way to use up leftover chicken and rice.
- Add chopped jalapeños for extra heat or top with diced avocado and lime juice before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
