Name: Chicken Burrito Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
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 ROTEL ((1-10 oz can)); 2 cups chicken broth; 3 tablespoons taco seasoning; 1 cup Mexican blend cheese; chopped cilantro; Crushed tortilla chips; Sour cream; guacamole

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As I was brainstorming for dinner one evening, I found myself craving something hearty and comforting. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Chicken Burrito Casserole. It’s one of those dishes that embodies all the flavors we love about burritos, but in a warm and cozy casserole form. The combination of tender chicken, creamy soups, and zesty spices creates a delightful fusion that warms both the heart and the stomach. Plus, it’s perfect for a family gathering or a simple weeknight meal. You can easily modify it to include your favorite toppings, making it a versatile dish that never gets old. This Chicken Burrito Casserole has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

What You’ll Enjoy About This Chicken Burrito Casserole

1. Comfort Food at Its Best

One of the main reasons I love the Chicken Burrito Casserole is that it brings the essence of comfort food right to the table. The creamy texture from the soup, combined with the tender chicken and cheese, makes every bite feel like a warm hug. It’s the kind of dish that you can enjoy while snuggled on the couch, bringing a sense of home wherever you are.

2. A Versatile Recipe

This casserole is incredibly adaptable. You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Whether it’s adding black beans for extra protein or tossing in some bell peppers for crunch, the Chicken Burrito Casserole can be tailored to suit both your cravings and dietary needs. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or any vegetables you might need to finish.

3. Easy to Prepare

Another reason I adore this recipe is its simplicity. Just mix a few ingredients together, pour them into a baking dish, and let the oven do the work. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and clean-up, this dish can quickly become your go-to comfort meal.

4. Great for Feeding a Crowd

The Chicken Burrito Casserole is an excellent choice for gatherings! It serves a crowd, making it perfect for potlucks and family dinners. Just set it on the table and watch as everyone dives in, enjoying the rich flavors together. The leftovers (if there are any!) heat up beautifully for lunch the next day, too.

5. Kid-Friendly

If you have little ones, they’ll love the fun flavors and cheesy goodness of this casserole. It’s a sneaky way to incorporate healthy ingredients, all while serving something they’ll actually eat. Plus, the customizable toppings let them get creative, making it an interactive meal that everyone will enjoy.

Recipe Ingredients for Chicken Burrito Casserole

When it comes to the ingredients for this Chicken Burrito Casserole, each one plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The combination of the creamy base, tender chicken, and zesty spices come together perfectly to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also delightful to share. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious recipe to life:

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 ROTEL (1-10 oz can)
2 cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 cup Mexican blend cheese
chopped cilantro
Crushed tortilla chips
Sour cream
guacamole

Recipe Steps for Chicken Burrito Casserole

Creating this Chicken Burrito Casserole is a straightforward process that’s just as enjoyable as the final result. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you through making this comforting dish. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure your casserole comes out perfectly every time!

Preheat your oven to 350˚F. This is an essential step because a well-preheated oven will help achieve that golden, bubbly top that we all want in a casserole.
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Mix these ingredients together until well combined. Watch the colors blend together as you stir; it should turn a lovely light yellow hue. This mixture will be the creamy base of your casserole, bringing richness to each bite.
Next, gradually stir in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth. This addition will loosen up the soup mixture, making it easier to combine with the other ingredients later. Keep stirring until it’s perfectly blended and without any lumps.
Now, add in the chopped or shredded chicken, instant rice, ROTEL, drained corn, and rinsed black beans. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Take a moment to enjoy the colorful combination of ingredients; it’s already looking delicious!
Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps ensure each portion has a fair share of all those wonderful ingredients. The aroma already starts enticing you, can you resist?
Top your casserole with a generous amount of the Mexican blend cheese. Go for a thick sprinkling to achieve that melty, gooey goodness we all love. Watching the cheese melt as it bakes will make your mouth water.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes covered. This allows the flavors to meld together while keeping everything moist and tender.
After 40 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious bubbly edge and golden-brown top. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be just right!
Once it’s bubbly and the casserole is cooked through, remove it from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. The bubbling sides will settle, making it easier to serve.
Finally, serve the casserole hot, topped with chopped cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, and a dollop of sour cream and guacamole if desired. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of your homemade Chicken Burrito Casserole!

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavors in your Chicken Burrito Casserole. Fresh chicken and organic vegetables can make a big difference.
Layering Flavors: For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or spices when mixing your ingredients. This can enhance the overall flavor profile.
Cooking Technique: If you prefer a crispier top, consider baking the casserole uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking time.
Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs excellently with a simple side salad or tortilla chips for added crunch.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Chicken Burrito Casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to three months. Just cover it tightly with foil, and when you’re ready, bake it directly from frozen, adding extra time.
Pairing: Serve this casserole with fresh avocado, a zesty lime wedge, or even a simple green salad to balance the richness.
Variations: Feel free to add in any leftover vegetables or different types of beans to personalize the dish to your taste.
Garnish: Sprinkle some extra cheese or fresh herbs on top before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Serving Size: This recipe serves eight, but you can easily adjust the ingredients for a smaller or larger group.

Serve This Chicken Burrito Casserole With

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a range of delicious sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips on the side for an extra crunch and a classic Mexican touch.
Spanish Rice: For a complete meal, pairing it with Spanish rice or cilantro-lime rice adds an extra layer of flavor.
Guacamole and Salsa: Enhance your dining experience by serving this casserole with fresh guacamole and salsa for dipping.
Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Game Day: Serve during sports events as a hearty and satisfying dish that feeds a crowd.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container. This makes it easy to enjoy again later in the week!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just assemble the casserole without baking it, and when you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting from a cold state. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep or when hosting guests!

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it alongside a fresh green salad, tortilla chips, or guacamole for dipping. Adding a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top also enhances the flavor. Consider making some cilantro-lime rice to go with it, giving your meal a delightful Tex-Mex flair!

Yes, you can freeze the Chicken Burrito Casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, ensure it is tightly covered to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can bake it straight from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time as needed. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping it well and storing in the freezer for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

Leftovers of the Chicken Burrito Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the casserole back in the oven covered with foil until heated through. This makes for a quick and easy meal option for lunch or dinner during the week!

Conclusion

The Chicken Burrito Casserole is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors and a hearty texture, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this casserole for your next dinner gathering or family meal. It’s not just about feeding the body; it’s about bringing people together around the table for a moment of shared joy. Enjoy every bite!