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This baked burrito casserole transforms your wrapped favorites into a no-hassle family dinner. Tender, shredded chicken, airy rice, black beans and sweet corn mix with south-of-the-border seasonings and melted cheese. It's a clever way to enjoy Mexican-inspired flavors without rolling individual burritos. Need something simple for a hectic evening? This filling, mouthwatering meal comes together with minimal effort.
I originally created this when our after-school schedule went bonkers and we needed something that would hold up regardless of when everyone made it to the table. I was shocked when my pickiest eater asked for seconds! Now they request it twice a month, and I always make extra for packed lunches later.
Ingredients Needed
Here's what you'll grab for this Chicken Burrito Casserole:
- Onion: ½ cup, finely diced, creates a flavorful foundation.
- Red bell pepper: 1, chopped into pieces, adds color, sweetness, and vitamins.
- Parboiled long grain brown rice: 1 cup, uncooked, provides hearty texture and nutty flavor.
- Fajita seasoning: 3 tbsp, delivers that authentic southwestern taste.
- Cayenne pepper: ⅛ tsp, offers gentle heat without overwhelming spice.
- Frozen corn kernels: 1 cup, creates pops of sweetness throughout the dish.
- Black beans: 1 (14 oz) can, low sodium, rinsed and drained, boosts protein and fiber.
- Shredded chicken: 5 cups, makes this a substantial, protein-packed meal.
- Chicken broth: 3 cups, reduced sodium, infuses flavor as the rice cooks.
- Green chilies: 1 (4 oz) can, mild, adds authentic flavor without excessive heat.
- Tomato paste: 1 tbsp, brings rich tomato flavor and binds ingredients together.
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp, enhances flavor and prevents rice from sticking.
- Monterey Jack cheese: 1¼ cups, shredded, creates that delicious golden crust.
Cooking Instructions
Try this straightforward method for a delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole:
- Combine Dry Components
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, stir together onion, red bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
- Mix Liquid Ingredients
- In a separate container, whisk together chicken broth, green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until well combined. Pour over your rice mixture and stir thoroughly.
- Incorporate Key Elements
- Stir in your shredded chicken, black beans, and frozen corn. Level everything out in the dish.
- Bake Until Ready
- Seal tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 65-70 minutes. You might want to check if the rice is tender around the 60-minute mark.
- Add Cheese Finishing
- Remove foil, scatter cheese across the entire surface, and return to oven uncovered for 5-10 minutes until melty and slightly golden.
- Rest Before Serving
- Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Add optional garnishes like cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, or sour cream if desired.
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Custom Variations
Craving more spice? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Want extra nutrition? Add chopped zucchini or handfuls of fresh spinach. Going meatless? Simply double up on beans instead of chicken. Make your own fajita seasoning blend for a personalized flavor.
Perfect For Hectic Days
You can assemble this earlier and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. It's also perfect for meal prep - many people think it's even more flavorful the next day!
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The first time I made this, I couldn't believe something so simple would turn out so tasty. I was surprised how all the fresh ingredients created such a vibrant sauce while cooking, and how moist the chicken remained. What I appreciate most is how it satisfies my Mexican food cravings in a way that aligns with my healthy eating goals. There's enough protein to keep me full for hours, and it's sufficiently low-carb that I can enjoy seconds without any guilt!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How spicy is it?
- It has a gentle heat thanks to the jalapeños. For less spice, toss the seeds or choose a milder pepper. Want a kick? Add cayenne or extra jalapeños!
- → Can I swap chicken thighs?
- Absolutely! Boneless thighs work perfectly and often stay extra juicy. Just make sure they hit 165°F/74°C to be cooked through.
- → What sides go well with this?
- Pair it with cilantro rice, black beans, or salad. For low-carb choices, go with cauliflower rice or veggies. You can even make tacos with it!
- → Can this be prepped ahead?
- Totally! Dice veggies and season the chicken a day in advance, storing them separately. Either bake fresh or reheat cooked chicken at 350°F when ready.
- → Can I replace mozzarella?
- Sure! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are all tasty options. Traditional choices like queso fresco work too but melt differently.