Introduction

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken with seasoned rice, black beans, and melted cheese. It’s an easy one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy all the classic burrito flavors in a warm, cheesy casserole.

The image shows a close-up of a rectangular pizza with a golden brown crust visible on the edges. It has a thick layer of melted white cheese on top with scattered pieces of green cilantro, small red and orange diced vegetables, and black olives spread evenly. The pizza is in a white baking dish, placed on a white marbled surface. The textures show a mix of soft melted cheese, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 red onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, minced
1 cup dry long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine)
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup corn kernels, frozen
14oz can black beans, strained and rinsed
450g cooked chicken, shredded (about 6 cups or 3 chicken breasts)
3 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
150 grams Monterey Jack or Havarti cheese, grated
Cilantro, to serve
Green onion, to serve

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. If you don’t have cooked chicken, bake the chicken breasts for 25 minutes until fully cooked. Let cool slightly, then shred using two forks.
Step 2: In a large 9 x 13 inch baking dish, combine the diced onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and sea salt. Stir well to mix.
Step 3: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish with the rice mixture and stir to combine thoroughly.
Step 5: Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the baking dish. Stir once more until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 6: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 7: Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 8: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese has melted and is lightly golden.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly. Serve garnished with fresh cilantro and sliced green onion as desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the spice mix.
Use cooked rotisserie chicken as a convenient shortcut.
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra beans or sautéed vegetables.
Try topping the casserole with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream when serving.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a rectangular white dish filled with a layered baked casserole. The bottom layer is thick and brown, likely a meat or bean base, covered by a layer of melted white cheese mixed with green leafy herbs and chopped vegetables. On top, small chopped pieces of red and orange vegetables and finely chopped green herbs are scattered evenly. The texture of the topping looks melted and slightly browned in spots, with visible bits of herbs adding a fresh look. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice can be used, but it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You may need to adjust the broth amount and extend the baking time accordingly.

What can I replace the jalapeño with if I don’t like spicy food?

You can substitute jalapeño with a mild green bell pepper or simply omit it altogether to reduce the heat.