why make this recipe
Chicken Burrito Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that brings the flavors of a classic burrito to your dinner table in a simple casserole form. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd. With its blend of chicken, beans, cheese, and spices, it’s not just tasty but also easy to make. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and whatever you have in your pantry.
how to make Chicken Burrito Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup sour cream
- Tortilla chips or tortillas for layering
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cooked rice, and taco seasoning.
- In a greased casserole dish, layer ingredients starting with tortillas or chips, followed by the chicken mixture, and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
- Once done, let it cool slightly, then dollop with sour cream and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
how to serve Chicken Burrito Casserole
Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole warm, straight from the oven. You can dish it out with a scoop of sour cream on top and sprinkle some chopped green onions for added color and flavor. This casserole also pairs well with a simple green salad or tortilla chips on the side for some extra crunch.
how to store Chicken Burrito Casserole
To store any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Feel free to customize the ingredients by adding vegetables you enjoy, like bell peppers or zucchini.
- For a little extra kick, add some sliced jalapeños or spicy salsa.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese and sour cream.
variation
You can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken and adding more beans or vegetables. Swap the meat with diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even tempeh.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Q: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A: The casserole is done when it’s heated through, and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Q: Can I use different types of beans?
A: Absolutely! You can use pinto beans, kidney beans, or any beans you prefer. Just adjust the flavor to your liking.
Chicken Burrito Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed Any beans can be substituted if preferred.
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa Spicy salsa can be used for a kick.
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) Low-fat cheese options can be used for a lighter version.
- 1 cup sour cream Low-fat sour cream can be used.
- to taste none Tortilla chips or tortillas for layering
- to taste none Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cooked rice, and taco seasoning.
Layering and Baking
- In a greased casserole dish, layer ingredients starting with tortillas or chips, followed by the chicken mixture, and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
- Once done, let it cool slightly, then dollop with sour cream and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.