This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a hearty and tasty dish that brings the flavors of burritos to a cozy casserole form. It’s packed with chicken, beans, cheese, and spices!
It’s great for busy nights since you can layer everything and let it bake while you relax. Plus, who can resist gooey cheese on top? It’s a family favorite in my house! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try replacing chicken with mushrooms or a mix of bell peppers and zucchini. They add great flavor!
Black Beans: Canned black beans are perfect, but you can substitute with pinto beans or even chickpeas. They all work well and add protein to the dish!
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet when in season, but frozen corn is just as good for this recipe. Canned corn works too—just make sure to drain it well.
Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa based on your heat tolerance. If you don’t have salsa, you can use diced tomatoes with added spices like cumin and jalapeños for a similar flavor.
Cheese: A Mexican cheese blend is ideal, but cheddar is a fantastic alternative. You can also use non-dairy cheese options if you’re dairy-free!
How Do You Layer the Casserole for the Best Flavor?
Layering your casserole properly ensures you get the most flavor and texture in each bite. Here are some tips:
- Start by mixing your filling well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- When adding tortilla pieces, gently fold them into the mixture; this helps them absorb moisture without turning too soggy.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish, making it flat. This promotes even cooking.
- For the top layer, sprinkle cheese evenly to create a nice, melty crust.
Letting the casserole stand after baking allows it to set a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.
How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Filling:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup salsa (choose your preferred heat level)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup chopped green onions
For the Cheese and Spices:
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese or cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tortillas:
- 4 large flour tortillas (6-inch size), cut into bite-sized pieces
For Topping:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream and avocado for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Burrito Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, making the total time approximately 45 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, diced tomatoes with chilies, and chopped green onions. Add the ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. Add Tortillas and Cheese:
Now, add in the cut tortilla pieces and half of the shredded cheese to the mixture. Gently fold everything together, making sure the tortillas are coated in the mixture so they can absorb some of the yummy flavors.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer your mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Once it’s nice and even, sprinkle the remaining cheese generously over the top to create a delicious cheesy layer.
5. Bake and Enjoy:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it stand for about 5 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a pop of flavor. Serve warm, with optional sour cream and sliced avocado on the side for a delightful finishing touch.
Dig into this delicious, comforting Chicken Burrito Casserole that brings the flavors of burritos to your plate in a hearty baked dish. Enjoy! 🌯✨
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly. It’s a great way to repurpose what you already have and save time in the kitchen!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option. You can also add extra beans for added protein.
How Should I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave it in individual portions.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Definitely! You can freeze it before or after baking. For freezing before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely before freezing, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it!
