If you’re looking for a warm, hearty dish that combines bold Mexican flavors with comforting ease, you’re going to adore this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings together tender shredded chicken, wholesome rice, beans, and a perfect melty cheesy topping, all baked to bubbly, savory perfection. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just craving a fuss-free dinner that packs a punch of flavor, this casserole ticks all the boxes with simplicity and mouthwatering results.

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, everyday staples that each bring something special to the table — from texture and color to depth of flavor. They’re easy to find and come together beautifully, making this dish a breeze to prepare without compromising on taste.

1/2 cup finely diced onion: Adds sweet, aromatic depth that forms the savory base.
1 red bell pepper (diced): Brings a burst of color and subtle sweetness for balance.
1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice: Provides a wholesome, nutty texture; white rice works too for a softer bite.
3 tablespoons fajita seasoning: Infuses the dish with smoky, spiced warmth — homemade or store-bought works great.
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a gentle heat that lifts all the other flavors beautifully.
1 cup corn kernels (frozen): Sweet crunch that pops in every mouthful.
1 14 ounce can low sodium black beans (drained and rinsed): Adds creamy texture and hearty protein.
5 cups shredded chicken: Tender, protein-packed star of the casserole.
3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and full of rich flavor.
1 4 ounce can mild green chilies: Adds subtle kick and tangy brightness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps bring flavors together with silky richness.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Deepens the savory profile with concentrated tomato goodness.
1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into a gooey, creamy topping that makes this casserole irresistible.

How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Combine the Veggies and Rice

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Into your 9×13 inch baking dish, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Give everything a good stir so those spices evenly coat the grains and veggies. This step is all about layering base flavors that will infuse the rice as it bakes.

Step 2: Mix the Broth and Aromatics

In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, mild green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth. This liquid mixture will not only cook the rice but also add a rich, flavorful sauce that ties every ingredient together beautifully.

Step 3: Combine the Broth with the Rice Mixture

Pour the broth blend into the baking dish with the rice and vegetables and stir everything to combine evenly. Make sure the rice is well coated — this ensures every grain will soak up those delicious flavors as it cooks.

Step 4: Add the Chicken, Beans, and Corn

Now it’s time for the hearty stuff: add your shredded chicken, rinsed black beans, and sweet corn kernels to the mix. Stir everything again until well distributed. You want each bite to have a bit of that satisfying protein and veggie combo.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until all of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. This slow bake melds all the flavors together, making the Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole a deeply comforting meal.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Once the casserole has baked, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes slightly golden, creating that irresistible gooey topping we all love.

Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve

After baking, let your dish cool for about 5 to 10 minutes to settle. This resting time helps everything firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. Then go ahead and scoop out generous portions and enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Garnishes

Top your casserole with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for a burst of herbal brightness. A dollop of salsa or creamy avocado slices adds vibrant flavor and texture. These finishing touches bring freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich casserole.

Side Dishes

Try pairing this casserole with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lime juice and olive oil for a refreshing crunch. Alternatively, some warm, soft tortillas or homemade guacamole make delightful accompaniments that keep things festive and fun.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving individual portions in small ramekins makes for a charming presentation, perfect for casual dinners or potlucks. You can also sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top just before serving for a satisfying crunch. This casserole is versatile and welcomes your personal twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors develop even more after a day or two, making for an even tastier meal when reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole either before baking or after it’s fully cooked and cooled. If freezing before baking, assemble as usual, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake covered and add cheese topping near the end. For leftover portions, wrap well and freeze individually to make quick meals later.

Reheating

Reheat casserole portions gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings covered to lock in moisture. Add a little extra cheese or fresh garnishes to brighten it up after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Absolutely! White long-grain rice works just as well and will yield a softer texture, though it may cook slightly faster. Keep an eye on the bake time to avoid overcooking.

Is this casserole spicy?

It’s mildly spiced with fajita seasoning and optional cayenne, but nothing too fiery. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less cayenne or swapping in a hotter chili pepper if you like a bit more kick.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut! Just shred the meat and it’s ready to add in. It saves time and adds lovely roasted flavor.

What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?

Cheddar, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend all work great as alternatives, depending on your taste preference. Each will melt beautifully and add its own character.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or sautéed veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added heartiness. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is one of those special recipes that feels like a big hug on a plate — comforting, flavorful, and satisfying all at once. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where you want a relaxed, crowd-pleasing meal without a ton of fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 12 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines tender shredded chicken, brown rice, black beans, and vegetables with a blend of fajita seasoning and mild green chilies. Baked to perfection and topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese, it makes a wholesome, satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Instructions

Preheat and combine base ingredients: Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the finely diced onion, diced red bell pepper, uncooked brown rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly.
Prepare broth mixture: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the reduced sodium chicken broth, mild green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add broth to rice mixture: Pour the broth mixture over the rice and vegetable mixture in the baking dish. Stir thoroughly to ensure that the rice and vegetables are evenly coated with the broth and seasonings.
Add chicken, beans, and corn: Add the shredded chicken, rinsed black beans, and corn kernels to the baking dish. Stir everything together so the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 65 to 70 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Add cheese topping: Remove the baking dish from the oven, carefully take off the aluminum foil, and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Melt the cheese: Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and has a slight golden color.
Cool and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, chopped green onion, salsa, and slices of avocado for added flavor and freshness.

Notes

Feel free to substitute white rice if preferred, but brown rice gives extra fiber and nutrients.
For more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.
Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save preparation time.
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (about 1/8 of recipe)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken burrito casserole, easy chicken casserole, baked chicken and rice, fajita seasoning casserole, Mexican casserole