There is something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy bake filled with tender chicken, spices, and fresh ingredients all layered into one cozy dish. This Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe combines all the bold, familiar flavors of a classic burrito but in a convenient casserole form that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal prepping for the week. With its creamy, cheesy texture and Mexican-inspired seasonings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you—each item in this recipe is simple but plays a crucial role in building the rich flavors, textures, and vibrant colors that make this casserole so delightful.
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast: The hearty protein base that makes this dish satisfying and nutritious.
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess, fiber, and a subtle earthiness that balances the spices.
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned): Brings a sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained: For a mild kick and juicy texture without added moisture.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Acts as a comforting filler that soaks up the flavors and gives structure.
- 1 cup sour cream: Offers creamy tanginess that keeps the casserole luscious and moist.
- 1 (10-ounce) can cream of chicken soup: Binds the mixture together with rich, smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Delivers a warm, smoky spice that defines the dish’s character.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Provides earthy depth that complements the chili powder perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle savory notes enhancing the overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances all flavors, bringing them alive in harmony.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: Melts into gooey, golden perfection that makes every bite dreamy.
- 6 large flour tortillas: Broken into pieces to create delicious soft layers that soak up the sauce.
- Chopped cilantro and sliced green onions for garnish: Fresh herbs that finish the dish with a burst of brightness and color.
How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Mix the Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks during baking. In a large bowl, combine the tender shredded chicken, black beans, sweet corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles, cooked rice, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt, then stir everything together until the mixture is evenly coated and beautifully blended. This filling is where all the magic begins, bursting with layers of flavor and creamy texture that make the casserole irresistible.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
Next, take your flour tortillas and either cut or tear them into roughly 2-inch pieces. Place half of these tortilla pieces evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, spreading it out into an even layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese over the filling to add richness and help bind the layers together. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, filling, and cheese to build the perfect layered casserole ready for baking.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil to keep the moisture locked in and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil to allow the cheese on top to melt and turn golden brown, baking for an additional 10 minutes. The result will be a bubbly, cheesy masterpiece with a gorgeous crusty top and a tender, flavorful interior. Let it cool slightly before serving, so the layers set nicely and each spoonful holds its shape beautifully.
How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this dish with fresh toppings like chopped cilantro and sliced green onions adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. These simple garnishes give the casserole a vibrant finish and invite your guests to dive right in.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe with classic sides like salsa, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. A crisp green salad or Mexican street corn can also make the meal feel complete and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions that look adorable and encourage big smiles. Alternatively, use colorful plates and garnish each serving with a wedge of lime for a zesty touch that elevates the presentation effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners during the week.
Freezing
This Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, keeping the texture just as delicious as freshly baked. You can also microwave smaller portions, but the oven method helps maintain that crispy cheesy top.
FAQs
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! Shredded turkey or cooked ground beef can be great alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try replacing the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu cubes.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free, or make your own gluten-free sauce from scratch. This way, you can enjoy the dish without worrying about gluten.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it refrigerated, then bake when you’re ready. This makes it a fantastic option for meal planning or entertaining.
What toppings would you recommend besides cilantro and green onions?
Try fresh diced avocado, a squeeze of lime, jalapeño slices for extra heat, or even a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce to customize the flavor to your liking.
How spicy is this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe?
It has a gentle warmth from the chili powder and green chiles in the tomatoes, but it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or some cayenne pepper if you prefer a kick.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors in one easy dish, look no further than this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe. It’s a warm hug in casserole form, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings that call for big flavor and minimal fuss. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s become one of my go-to recipes and one you’ll want to savor again and again.
Print
Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free option available with GF tortillas and soup
Description
This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a comforting Mexican-inspired baked dish featuring shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and rice layered with tortillas and topped with melted Mexican blend cheese. Perfect for an easy family dinner, this casserole combines bold flavors and creamy textures with a cheesy golden finish.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (10-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Assembly
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
Garnish
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles, cooked rice, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Layer Base Tortillas: Cut or tear the flour tortillas into approximately 2-inch pieces. Spread half of these tortilla pieces evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
- Add First Filling Layer: Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla pieces in the dish, smoothing it out evenly with the back of a spoon or spatula.
- Cheese Layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the chicken mixture layer.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortilla pieces, followed by the remaining chicken mixture, and finally the last cup of shredded cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered to Brown Cheese: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top has melted and turned golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving, then garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions to add fresh flavor and color.
Notes
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the dish and add extra protein.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortillas and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
- Serve with salsa, sliced avocado, or hot sauce on the side for extra spice and freshness.
