Chicken Burrito Casserole Ultimate

This chicken burrito casserole brings all the best Tex Mex flavors into one cozy one pan dish. It is hearty cheesy and so easy to put together that it has become my answer for busy weeknight dinners when everyone wants something comforting and full of flavor.

I threw this together on a hectic night and it instantly became a family favorite. The cheesy bubbly top always draws a crowd around the table and there are never any leftovers.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: This brings all the protein and soaks up the bold Tex Mex flavors Use leftover rotisserie or poached chicken for the juiciest result
• Black beans: Drained and rinsed these add fiber and heartiness Choose beans that have a glossy skin for best texture
• Corn: Sweet and juicy provides a pop of color and balances the spices Use canned or fresh off the cob
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds tang and a mild kick Check for a bright red color and avoid dull or mushy tomatoes
• Cooked rice: Either white or brown adds bulk and soaks up all the saucy goodness Go for fluffy grains not sticky or soggy
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into that classic stretchy layer Sharp cheddar brings deeper flavor and better browning
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy with a mild flavor for extra melt Choose a good quality block and shred it fresh
• Taco seasoning: The quick flavor boost for spice and depth Make your own for control or pick a low sodium blend
• Salsa: Adds moisture and a little bright acidity Try a salsa with fresh ingredients and check for balanced salt
• Sour cream: Swirled into the mixture makes everything creamy and keeps the casserole from drying out Use full fat for best texture
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing and to help brown the chicken Pick a fresh bottle with a fruity aroma
• Chopped fresh cilantro: Optional adds freshness and a pop of green Buy bright green bunches with perky leaves
• Tortilla chips or flour tortillas: Optional for extra crunch or as a serving vehicle Pick thick sturdy chips that will not get soggy or use flour tortillas for a softer bite

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to heat up fully This ensures the cheese melts evenly and nothing undercooks

Sauté the Chicken:

Warm olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet Add your shredded chicken and sprinkle on half of the taco seasoning Stir for two to three minutes until the chicken is warmed through and well coated with spices This step brings out the aroma and deeply flavors the meat

Mix the Casserole Base:

In a big mixing bowl combine the sautéed chicken black beans corn diced tomatoes rice salsa sour cream and the rest of the taco seasoning Gently fold everything together until well mixed so every bite has a bit of everything

Layer in the Baking Dish:

Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish Spread half the chicken mixture on the bottom Smooth it out with a spatula then shower half the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly across the top

Add the Second Layer:

Cover the first layer with the rest of the chicken mixture Add tortilla chips or strips of flour tortillas if you like then sprinkle the remaining cheese all over to finish

Bake the Casserole:

Cover the dish snugly with foil and place it on the center rack Bake for twenty minutes so everything heats through and the cheese begins to melt Uncover and bake for another ten to fifteen minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and you smell that irresistible melted cheese aroma

Garnish and Rest:

Remove the casserole from the oven Let it cool for about five minutes for easier slicing If you enjoy a fresh finish sprinkle on chopped cilantro

Serve and Enjoy:

Cut the casserole into squares Use a metal spatula to lift portions Serve warm on its own or with extra salsa and sour cream on the side

Pin

My favorite part of this dish is watching the cheese bubble and brown in the oven It brings back memories of loud family dinners where everyone dives in for the crispiest corner piece and we always end up sharing stories at the table

Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool completely before covering Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For longer storage wrap tightly and freeze individual portions When reheating use a low oven setting to keep the cheese melty and prevent the casserole from drying out

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the black beans for pinto beans or add kidney beans for a change of flavor If you like things spicy add a few chopped pickled jalapeños Layer in cooked bell peppers or onions for more vegetables If you are dairy free use plant based cheese and plain unsweetened yogurt in place of sour cream

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is plenty hearty on its own but it is also great with a fresh side salad or a scoop of guacamole For gatherings set out extra chips lettuce leaves or tortillas and let everyone build their own burrito style plates For a brunch twist try topping leftovers with a fried egg

Pin

Cultural and Historical Context

Burrito casserole takes all the comfort and flavor of classic Tex Mex burritos and packs them into a bake and share format Dishes like this are popular across the Southwest and are beloved for their flexibility You can trace the roots back to a blending of Mexican American home cooking where recipes evolve to suit what families have on hand The layered style is both festive and practical perfect for potlucks

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best?

Shredded cooked chicken breast or thighs both work well. Rotisserie chicken can also save time and add flavor.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely. Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic, but Pepper Jack or a Mexican blend would be tasty as well.

→ Is it possible to make it ahead?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance, refrigerate covered, and bake just before serving for convenience.

→ Are tortilla chips necessary?

No, they add crunch but you can skip them or use flour tortillas for a softer texture, based on your preference.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Leftover casserole keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can this be made vegetarian?

Yes. Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables or more beans for a flavorful vegetarian twist.