Chicken Burrito Casserole is a tasty and easy dish that brings together tender chicken, gooey melted cheese, and layers of tortillas all baked in a flavorful sauce. It’s like your favorite burrito, but in a cozy casserole form that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
I love making this casserole when I want a no-fuss dinner that still feels special. The best part is how simple it is to customize—add your favorite beans, salsa, or veggies, and you’ve got a meal that’s just right for your taste. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover chicken sitting in the fridge.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top. It’s a comforting dish that always makes the table smile, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so there’s always a reason to have seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is the star here. I often use rotisserie chicken because it’s juicy and easy. No rotisserie? Cook chicken breasts or thighs and shred them yourself.
Rice: White rice works great, but brown rice or even quinoa can be healthy substitutes. Just make sure it’s cooked before layering.
Beans: Black beans add texture and protein. If you prefer, pinto or kidney beans work just as well.
Cheese: The combo of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds flavor. For a twist, you can use pepper jack for a bit of spice or a Mexican cheese blend.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. If you want a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt makes a nice substitute without sacrificing tang.
How Do I Layer the Casserole for the Best Taste and Texture?
Layering is what makes this dish shine. Follow these steps:
- Spread half the chicken and rice mix evenly in the dish. This ensures every bite has good filling.
- Add a layer of sour cream—spreading it gently helps keep moisture balanced.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly on top. This melts into the sour cream and adds gooey goodness.
- Repeat the layers so the flavors stack nicely and bake evenly.
- Cover with foil while baking to keep moisture in, then uncover near the end to brown the cheese slightly.
These steps help the casserole stay moist but not soggy, with a tasty melted cheese top. Let it cool a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for layering and baking the casserole evenly.
- Mixing bowl – use it to combine all your ingredients easily without mess.
- Spoon or spatula – helps spread the layers smoothly and evenly in the dish.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole while baking and keep it moist.
- Cheese grater (optional) – if you’re shredding your own cheese for a fresher taste.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for ground beef or turkey to change the protein and add a different flavor.
- Add corn kernels or diced bell peppers for extra sweetness and a bit of crunch.
- Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like heat in your casserole.
- Top with chopped olives or avocado slices after baking for a fresh, creamy twist.
Chicken Burrito Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese and Cream:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream
For Garnish:
- Fresh diced tomatoes
- Fresh chopped cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole requires about 15 minutes of preparation time to mix and layer the ingredients, plus about 35 minutes baking time. Letting it cool for 5 minutes before serving adds a little extra. In total, you can expect around 55 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Oven and Mix Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, stir together the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, salsa, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, optional diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
2. Layer the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the chicken and rice mixture evenly in the bottom. Then spoon half of the sour cream over it and spread gently. Sprinkle half of both shredded cheeses over the sour cream. Repeat these layers with the remaining chicken mixture, sour cream, and cheeses to build a tasty, cheesy casserole.
3. Bake and Serve:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes to warm everything through. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to melt and slightly brown the cheese on top. Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish each serving with fresh diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Chicken Burrito Casserole! It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before shredding and mixing it into the casserole. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready to eat, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best texture, cover the casserole while reheating to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Burrito Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, guacamole, or some crunchy tortilla chips. A scoop of extra sour cream or salsa on the side also makes for a tasty addition!
