This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a one-dish meal that combines all the delicious flavors of your favorite burritos into a comforting casserole. With tender chicken, rice, beans, corn, and plenty of melted cheese, it’s a protein-packed, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy nights. Ready in just over an hour, this casserole is both satisfying and easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken burrito casserole is a simple, flavorful meal that combines all the best ingredients of a burrito—rice, chicken, beans, and cheese—into one easy dish. It’s not only gluten-free but also packed with protein from the chicken and beans, making it a filling meal for the whole family. The fajita seasoning gives it a nice, mild kick, while the melted cheese on top creates a perfectly creamy, comforting finish. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with minimal prep and only one baking dish to clean! Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Ingredients

1/2 cup finely diced onion
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (or long-grain white rice)
3 tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup frozen corn kernels
1 (14 oz) can low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
5 cups shredded chicken
3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
1 (4 oz) can mild green chilies
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the onion, bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until well combined.
Pour the broth mixture over the rice mixture in the baking dish and stir to combine.
Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the dish. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 65-70 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven, take off the foil, and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Return the dish to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is slightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Serve with fresh cilantro, green onion, salsa, and avocado, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Add more veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes for more color and nutrients.
Spicy version: Increase the cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños for a spicier kick.
Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese for a dairy-free version.
Add sour cream or guacamole: Top with a dollop of sour cream or a side of guacamole for added creaminess and flavor.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until heated through.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a little extra cheese on top for that melty goodness!

FAQs

Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked?

Yes, you can use cooked rice, but you’ll need to adjust the amount of liquid and cooking time. Use about 1 1/2 cups of cooked rice and reduce the chicken broth by half.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of shredded chicken?

Yes! If you have cooked chicken breasts, simply shred them and follow the recipe as written. If you’re using raw chicken breasts, you’ll need to cook them first, either by grilling, baking, or sautéing.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time by assembling everything in the baking dish, covering it, and refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled from the fridge.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar, Colby, or a cheese blend, depending on your preference.

Can I make this casserole spicier?

Absolutely! Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños or a can of diced green chilies with more heat for extra spice.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a hearty, one-dish wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With tender chicken, savory rice, beans, and a melty cheese topping, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Serve with your favorite toppings for an even more delicious experience—this casserole is sure to become a weeknight favorite!