Let me tell you, I absolutely love my chicken burrito casserole! It’s one of those recipes that just comes together so easily and is packed with all the delicious flavors of a classic burrito. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like pulling a bubbling, cheesy casserole out of the oven after a long day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends over, and the best part? You can customize it however you like! This dish combines tender shredded chicken, hearty beans, zesty salsa, and gooey cheese, all layered in a warm tortilla embrace. It’s a one-dish wonder that everyone will adore!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 8 flour tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly all the way through. Nobody likes a soggy bottom or a cold center! So while you’re prepping your ingredients, let that oven get nice and toasty.
Combine the Ingredients
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the cooked shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, and chili powder. Use a spatula or a big spoon to gently mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want all those flavors to meld beautifully, so take a moment to really mix it up! The aroma of the spices will have your mouth watering already!
Layering the Casserole
Next, it’s time to build your masterpiece! Take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and start with half of the tortilla quarters. Spread them evenly across the bottom of the dish. Now, spoon half of your chicken mixture over the tortillas, making sure to cover them well. Then sprinkle a cup of shredded cheese on top. You want that gooey goodness! Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and finish it off with the rest of the cheese. This layering technique is key to achieving that perfect cheesy crust on top!
Baking the Casserole
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake it for about 25 minutes, allowing all those flavors to come together. After the first 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil (watch out, hot steam!) and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This will give you that lovely bubbly, golden top that is absolutely irresistible!
Serving Suggestions
Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This short wait time helps the layers set a bit so you can cut nice, clean pieces. Just before serving, drizzle some sour cream on top for that creamy finish. The combination of flavors and textures is simply mouthwatering—trust me, you and your guests will be going back for seconds!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for each serving of this delicious chicken burrito casserole. Keep in mind that these numbers may vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but they give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g
This casserole is not just comforting and satisfying, but it also packs a protein punch, making it a great choice for a filling meal. Enjoy it guilt-free, knowing you’re feeding yourself and your loved ones something tasty and nutritious!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your chicken burrito casserole turns out absolutely perfect every single time! Here are my top pro tips to elevate this dish to the next level:
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your casserole depends heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for fresh, organic chicken if possible, and go for a good-quality salsa. A homemade salsa can really take this dish to new heights!
- Don’t Rush the Mixing: When combining the ingredients, take your time to mix everything well. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred it into small pieces for better distribution throughout the casserole.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the chicken mixture. It’ll give your casserole a delightful kick!
- Cheese Choices: While I love a good cheddar or Mexican blend, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack melts beautifully, and a sprinkle of queso fresco on top just before serving adds a nice touch!
- Layering Matters: For the best texture, make sure to layer your tortillas evenly. This helps create a nice base that holds everything together while also giving you those delicious crispy edges.
- Try Different Proteins: This casserole is super versatile! If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using ground beef, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to sneak in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrition. Just sauté them lightly before adding to the casserole so they don’t release too much moisture.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting from cold.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress with your chicken burrito casserole! Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about my chicken burrito casserole is how easily it adapts to your tastes and what you have on hand! Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:
- Protein Swaps: Not in the mood for chicken? No problem! Ground beef or turkey works wonderfully, giving you a classic burrito vibe. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils as your base protein.
- Veggie Boost: Add some color and nutrition by mixing in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just sauté the veggies first to prevent excess moisture from making your casserole soggy.
- Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some diced jalapeños, green chiles, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for that extra kick. You can also experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
- Different Cheeses: While cheddar and Mexican blend are my go-tos, why not mix it up? Try pepper jack for a spicy twist, or a creamy queso blanco for a richer texture. You can even top it off with crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a fun twist!
- Salsa Variety: Switch up your salsa! Use a fruity salsa verde for a tangy kick, or a smoky chipotle salsa for a deeper flavor. You can also make your own salsa to control the heat level and ingredients.
- Make It Tex-Mex: Add a southwestern twist by incorporating corn tortillas instead of flour, and top it with avocado slices or pico de gallo just before serving. This adds a fresh element that pairs beautifully with the warm casserole.
These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to tailor this dish to your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Have fun with it and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious chicken burrito casserole and have some leftovers? No worries! Proper storage and reheating will keep it just as tasty for your next meal.
First off, let your casserole cool down to room temperature before storing it. This will help prevent condensation from forming, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, you can store it in an airtight container. If you want to keep things easy, you can also cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight before reheating.
Now, onto reheating! If you’re reheating from the fridge, I recommend popping it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. If you’re reheating from frozen, it’s best to let it thaw in the fridge overnight first, then follow the same reheating instructions. This will ensure every bite is just as cheesy and delicious as when you first made it!
For a quicker option, you can also use the microwave. Just spoon out a portion into a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated through. Just be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out—nobody wants that!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every bite of your chicken burrito casserole, even days later. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation Time: This casserole comes together in just about 20 minutes of prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Easy Cleanup: With everything baked in one dish, you’ll spend less time washing up and more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
- Packed with Flavor: Every bite is bursting with delicious, authentic burrito flavors, thanks to the combination of spices, tender chicken, and gooey cheese.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish, making it a hit at the dinner table for everyone!
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences, whether that means switching up the protein, adding extra veggies, or using your favorite type of cheese.
- Great for Meal Prep: This casserole can be made ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and baked when you’re ready, making it a fantastic option for meal planning.
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! If you have frozen chicken, you can cook it directly in the casserole. Just adjust the baking time to ensure it’s fully cooked through. Alternatively, you can thaw it beforehand for quicker preparation.
Is this chicken burrito casserole gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free flour tortillas, this dish can easily be made gluten-free. Just double-check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with chicken burrito casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own! However, you can serve it with a side salad, some guacamole, or tortilla chips for a nice crunch. A dollop of fresh salsa on top is also a great addition!
How do I store leftovers?
Let your casserole cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to save it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2–3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating!

Chicken Burrito Casserole Easy Recipes for Delicious Dinners
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious chicken burrito casserole that combines all the flavors of a burrito in a convenient baked dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 8 flour tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, and chili powder.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the tortilla quarters on the bottom.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and finish with the remaining cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle sour cream on top before serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Feel free to add jalapeños for extra heat.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken burrito casserole easy recipes