Chicken Burrito Casserole
If you’re looking for a delightful and comforting meal that pleases everyone at the dinner table, look no further than this Chicken Burrito Casserole. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines all the flavors of a chicken burrito in a cozy, cheesy casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering, this dish packs a punch with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe in any home cook’s repertoire.
Why This Chicken Burrito Casserole Stands Out
This Chicken Burrito Casserole is not just any ordinary casserole. It shines with its hearty ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. The combination of tender chicken, creamy soup, and zesty taco seasoning makes each bite irresistibly delicious. The addition of black beans and corn adds a wonderful texture, while the melted cheese on top creates a delightful crust that is hard to resist. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress.
Gather These Ingredients
- 3 cups chicken, cooked and chopped or shredded
- 2 cups instant rice
- 21 ounces cream of chicken soup (2-10.5 oz cans)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 15.25 ounces canned corn, drained (1 can)
- 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed (1 can)
- 10 ounces RO*TEL (1-10 oz can)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup Mexican blend cheese
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Crushed tortilla chips for topping
- Sour cream for serving
- Guacamole for serving
Appliances & Accessories
- Large mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – Perfect size for this casserole.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements ensure flavor balance.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Ideal for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
- Oven – To bake the casserole to perfection.
Mastering Chicken Burrito Casserole: How-To
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the instant rice, stir, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until the rice is fluffy.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, drained corn, rinsed black beans, RO*TEL, taco seasoning, and the prepared rice. Mix well until everything is evenly coated and combined.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the Mexican blend cheese over the top of the casserole. Then, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with chopped cilantro and crushed tortilla chips. Serve with sour cream and guacamole on the side for a delicious finishing touch.
Seasonal Adaptations
- Summer: Add diced bell peppers or fresh corn for a refreshing crunch.
- Fall: Incorporate diced sweet potatoes for added sweetness and nutrition.
- Winter: Use roasted butternut squash for a cozy, warm flavor.
- Spring: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a bright finish.
Pro Tips & Notes
- For added spice, consider using spicy taco seasoning or adding jalapeños to the mixture.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with additional beans or vegetables.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for varied flavors.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to make serving easier.
Storage & Reheat Guide
The Chicken Burrito Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Chicken Burrito Casserole Q&A
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great option and will save you time in the kitchen.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and taco seasoning, this dish can be gluten-free.
Can I freeze the Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I serve with the Chicken Burrito Casserole?
This casserole is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, some Mexican rice, or additional toppings like salsa or avocado for a complete meal.
Because You Liked This
Next Steps
Now that you have mastered this Chicken Burrito Casserole, it’s time to get creative! Experiment with different ingredients, toppings, and sides to make this dish your own. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family. Trust us, they’ll be asking for seconds! Enjoy the comforting flavors and the joy of sharing a delicious meal.
This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a fantastic way to bring the flavors of your favorite burrito into a cozy casserole form. With its cheesy goodness, hearty ingredients, and ease of preparation, this dish is destined to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, it’s sure to be a hit!
Chicken Burrito Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the instant rice, stir, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until the rice is fluffy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, drained corn, rinsed black beans, RO*TEL, taco seasoning, and the prepared rice. Mix well until everything is evenly coated and combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the Mexican blend cheese over the top of the casserole. Then, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with chopped cilantro and crushed tortilla chips. Serve with sour cream and guacamole on the side for a delicious finishing touch.
Notes
- For added spice, consider using spicy taco seasoning or adding jalapeños to the mixture.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with additional beans or vegetables.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for varied flavors.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to make serving easier.
