If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together effortlessly, this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine layers of tender shredded chicken, vibrant black beans, sweet corn, and spicy enchilada sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection beneath a golden blanket of melted cheese and warm tortillas. This dish perfectly balances comfort and excitement, delivering those familiar Mexican-inspired tastes with none of the fuss. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for a casual gathering, this casserole never fails to satisfy and impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Great dishes start with great ingredients, and this casserole is no exception. Each ingredient plays a vital role—adding texture, flavor, and a pop of color to make your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe extra special and downright irresistible.
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken: Using rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds juicy, tender meat.
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (rinsed and drained): Adds creaminess and a delicious protein boost.
- 1 cup frozen corn (thawed): Brings a subtle sweetness and wonderful texture.
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (drained): Adds a burst of flavor with a mild kick.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Provides heartiness and soaks up all those delicious sauces.
- 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce: Key for that classic Mexican depth and spice.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Packs bold, zesty seasoning throughout the dish.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (divided): Essential for gooey, melty topping and rich flavor.
- 6 large flour tortillas: Base layers that hold everything together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, bright garnish finishing touch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances every other ingredient beautifully.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and helps with even baking.
How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
Step 2: Combine the Filling
In a large bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, rinsed black beans, thawed corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles, cooked rice, enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix everything until well combined, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Place two tortillas in the bottom of the prepared dish, overlapping them slightly to cover the base evenly. Spread one-third of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with tortillas as the top layer.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top of the final tortilla layer. Cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 5: Let It Rest and Garnish
Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes after baking—this rest time helps everything settle and makes serving easier. If you love a fresh finish, sprinkle on some chopped cilantro before digging in!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is the cherry on top for your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe. Fresh chopped cilantro adds a pop of color and brightness, while a dollop of sour cream or guacamole introduces creamy freshness that perfectly balances the spicy, savory layers.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands out as a filling main dish but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, crunchy tortilla chips, or a vibrant pico de gallo salsa. These sides complement and contrast the rich casserole beautifully without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for portion control or prepare it as a layered dip for a party platter. Garnish each portion with sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, or a squeeze of fresh lime—these little additions bring extra excitement and freshness to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover casserole into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld deliciously overnight, making leftovers even better than the first night.
Freezing
If you want to prep this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe for later, you can freeze it unbaked or baked. Wrap it tightly in foil and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Microwaving works too for a quicker option—just cover the dish to retain moisture and heat in shorter bursts to avoid drying out the casserole.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas offer a slightly different texture and a more authentic flavor. Just be sure to soften them first by warming to prevent cracking during layering.
Is this casserole spicy?
The level of spice depends mostly on the enchilada sauce and taco seasoning you choose. You can easily adjust the heat to your liking by opting for mild, medium, or spicy varieties.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the shredded chicken with extra beans, sautéed vegetables, or a plant-based protein to create a delicious vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
How long does the casserole keep in the fridge?
Properly stored, this casserole will keep fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy it within that time frame for the best taste and texture.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two 9×13-inch dishes. Adjust baking time accordingly, checking for bubbling and melted cheese.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and exciting about this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to bring bold Mexican flavors into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this casserole is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love bite after bite!
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: High-Protein
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Chicken Burrito Casserole that layers shredded chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes with green chiles, rice, and cheese between tortillas, baked to bubbly perfection. This Mexican-American fusion dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (half of 2 cups)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (remaining half)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles, cooked rice, enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer Tortillas and Filling: Lay two flour tortillas on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping them slightly to create a solid base. Spoon one-third of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortillas. Repeat this layering two more times—tortillas, then filling—ending with a final layer of tortillas on top.
- Add Cheese and Cover: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top layer of tortillas. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake Covered: Place the covered casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and ingredients to heat through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient option.
- Substitute corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free alternative.
- Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor and texture contrasts.
