Get ready to fall in love with the Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole—a Tex-Mex-inspired dinner that layers all your favorite burrito flavors into one bubbling, cheesy masterpiece. It’s hearty, comforting, and made for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends when you just want something utterly satisfying without a ton of effort. With plenty of oozy cheddar, tender shredded chicken, and a punchy, savory sauce that marries everything together, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser you’ll come back to again and again.

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is delightfully straightforward, but every component earns its place. Each one adds a new layer of flavor, texture, or color that turns a humble bake into a dinner worth celebrating!

Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie or home-cooked both work wonders, bringing protein-packed tenderness to every bite.
Black beans (drained and rinsed): These beauties add heartiness and a slight earthiness that balances the rich cheese and sauce.
Corn kernels (frozen or canned): Pops of sweetness and juicy texture make each forkful more interesting.
Salsa: Your favorite brand gives the casserole a fresh, zesty kick—choose mild or hot, depending on your preference.
Enchilada sauce: The backbone of saucy flavor—use a can for convenience or homemade if you’re in the mood.
Chili powder: Just a teaspoon gives that crucial warmth and Mexican essence.
Cumin: A subtle smokiness that ties the Tex-Mex profile together so well.
Cooked rice: Adds bulk and comfort—white, brown, or even a blend, depending on what you like!
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, bubbly, and golden—cheese is non-negotiable for that classic casserole top.
Sour cream: Stirred in, it adds creaminess and a gentle tang without overpowering the dish.
Flour tortillas (cut into pieces): They soak up flavor and turn gorgeously soft in the oven, almost like a lazy-day lasagna.
Fresh cilantro and sliced green onions (for garnish): Brings brightness and a fresh look to the finished casserole.

How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or a bit of oil. This helps ensure that your flavorful casserole doesn’t stick, giving you perfect, cheesy squares when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Combine the Filling

Grab a big mixing bowl and toss in the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, cooked rice, and one cup of the cheddar cheese. Stir in the sour cream until everything is evenly coated and looking delicious. This technicolor mixture will be the soul of your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Scatter half of the chopped tortillas in an even layer on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Spoon half the chicken mixture over the tortillas, spreading it out for a solid layer of flavor. Repeat: another layer of tortilla pieces and then the rest of the chicken mixture. Finish it all off by sprinkling the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring the surface is well covered for maximum meltiness.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish snugly with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover, then send it back for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and irresistibly golden. The aroma will tell you everything you need to know—it’s going to be good. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before cutting, so those beautiful layers can set.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Just before you serve, scatter freshly chopped cilantro and sliced green onions over the top. These little pops of color and zest wake up the whole dish, making each bite as visually appealing as it is delicious.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro and green onions is classic, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Try diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, a spoonful of extra salsa, or even a drizzle of crema or hot sauce for extra flavor and flair.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a meal on its own, but pairing it with sides can really round out your Tex-Mex feast. Consider a tangy lime-dressed salad, crunchy tortilla chips with guacamole, or even a simple bowl of seasoned black beans to keep things fresh and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn each serving into a mini fiesta on a plate by adding a wedge of lime and a scoop of pico de gallo. For potlucks, serve straight from the baking dish to keep things casual and cozy, or plate with a ring of corn chips for crunch and contrast. You can even cut the casserole into bite-size squares for party-ready finger food!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Storing leftovers is a breeze. Cover the cooled casserole tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container, and pop it in the fridge for up to 4 days. The layers reheat beautifully and the flavors continue to meld, making for scrumptious next-day lunches.

Freezing

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole freezes like a champ! You can assemble it up to the point of baking, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes if needed.

Reheating

For single servings, the microwave is your friend—just reheat on medium power until hot all the way through. If you’re warming up a larger portion, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until steamy and cheesy once more (about 15-20 minutes).

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut; it’s juicy, flavorful, and cuts down on prep work, making dinner even easier.

What types of cheese work best?

Sharp cheddar melts perfectly and brings that classic, bold flavor, but you can also mix in pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend for extra interest and a little kick.

Is there a gluten-free version of this casserole?

Yes! Simply swap in gluten-free tortillas and make sure your enchilada sauce is gluten free. All the other ingredients are naturally safe.

Can I add vegetables or spice it up more?

Of course! Toss in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or chopped jalapeños for extra nutrition and flair. A splash of hot sauce in the filling is perfect for heat lovers.

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prep the entire casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours ahead. When dinnertime arrives, just bake as usual, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if going from cold.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving big flavor and ultimate cosiness, you simply must try Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole. Every forkful is a comfort-packed hug, and it’s bound to make dinnertime a whole lot more exciting. Gather your favorite people, bake up a pan, and get ready for those happy, satisfied smiles!

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delicious and easy-to-make Chicken Burrito Casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and savory spices, all layered between flour tortillas and gooey cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

3 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
1 cup salsa
1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
2 cups cooked rice
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
6 large flour tortillas, cut into pieces
Fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, cooked rice, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir in the sour cream.
Layer: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the tortillas, then half of the chicken mixture. Repeat layers. Top with remaining cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly.
Rest and serve: Let it sit for 5 minutes before garnishing with cilantro and green onions.