Name: Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1/2 cup finely diced onion; 1 red bell pepper diced; 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice; 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 cup corn kernels frozen; 1 14 ounce can low sodium black beans drained and rinsed; 5 cups shredded chicken; 1 4 ounce can mild green chilies; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

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Looking for a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion? This Chicken Burrito Casserole recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of tender chicken, savory beans, and zesty seasonings creates a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have this casserole in the oven and ready to bake in no time.

Perfect for meal prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Notes:

Finely diced onion: Adds a savory flavor base to the dish.

Red bell pepper diced: Provides a pop of color and sweetness.
Uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (can also use long grain white rice): Adds texture and hearty grains to the casserole.

Tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought): Infuses the dish with bold, smoky flavors.
Teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a hint of heat for those who like a little kick.
Corn kernels frozen: Adds sweetness and crunch.
Ounce can low sodium black beans drained and rinsed: Adds protein and fiber to the dish.

Shredded chicken: Adds protein and a hearty texture.
Cups reduced sodium chicken broth: Provides moisture and flavor to the casserole.
Ounce can mild green chilies: Adds a subtle heat and tang to the dish.
Tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables and rice.
Tablespoons tomato paste: Adds depth of flavor and richness.
Cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into gooey goodness on top of the casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°F. Add onion, bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne (if using) to a 9×13-inch baking dish and stir to combine.
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until well combined.
Add the broth mixture to the baking dish and stir to combine with the rice mixture.

Add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the baking dish. Give it an additional stir until well combined.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and transfer to the oven to bake for 45-50 minutes or until all of the liquid is absorbed.
Once complete, remove the baking dish from the oven, remove the aluminum foil, and sprinkle evenly with grated cheese.

Return the baking dish to the oven for a final 10-15 minutes until the cheese has melted and is slightly golden.
Remove from the oven, allow to cool for 5-10 minutes, and serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, green onion, salsa, and avocado, if desired.

Helpful Tips:

For added flavor, try using homemade fajita seasoning.
If the casserole is too soupy, give it more time in the oven to absorb the liquid.

Substitute taco seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Use rotisserie chicken or boiled chicken breasts for a quick and easy shredded chicken option.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Make sure to use parboiled rice for the best texture in this dish.
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Customize the dish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

This Chicken Burrito Casserole pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, a crisp green salad, or chips and salsa. For drinks, try serving it with a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use different vegetables in this casserole?
Yes! Feel free to customize the vegetables in this recipe to suit your preferences. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze this casserole?
While this casserole can be frozen, the texture of the rice may change slightly upon reheating. If freezing, be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion:

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors, simple preparation, and make-ahead options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that will satisfy your taste buds!