Ingredients
If you’re looking for a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, then Chicken Burrito Casserole is exactly what you need. This dish combines the best of Mexican flavors with the convenience of a baked casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, it brings together tender chicken, beans, rice, tortillas, and gooey cheese in a single baking dish.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know: the recipe, variations, tips, nutrition facts, meal prep hacks, and why this casserole is quickly becoming a must-try comfort food favorite.
What Is Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Chicken Burrito Casserole is a baked dish inspired by classic chicken burritos. Instead of rolling individual burritos, the ingredients are layered in a casserole pan and baked until hot and cheesy. The result is a dish that delivers all the familiar flavors—spiced chicken, creamy beans, fluffy rice, savory salsa, and melted cheese—in an easy family-style format.
It’s often described as a “lazy burrito recipe” because it saves you time without sacrificing taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to fall in love with Chicken Burrito Casserole:
Easy to prepare: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients.
Feeds a crowd: Perfect for large families, gatherings, or weekly meal prep.
Customizable: Adjust spices, toppings, and fillings to suit your preferences.
Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples like rice, beans, and tortillas.
Kid-approved: Mild flavors can be made spicier for adults with hot sauce or jalapeños.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a traditional Chicken Burrito Casserole, you’ll need:
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Chicken – Cooked and shredded (rotisserie chicken works great).
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Tortillas – Flour tortillas, cut into halves or quarters.
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Rice – White, brown, or Mexican rice.
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Beans – Black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed.
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Salsa or Enchilada Sauce – Adds flavor and moisture.
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Cheese – Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
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Seasonings – Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
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Optional toppings – Sour cream, avocado, cilantro, jalapeños, or lime wedges.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make the perfect Chicken Burrito Casserole:
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Prepare the Chicken
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Use shredded rotisserie chicken or boil chicken breasts with salt, garlic, and onion, then shred.
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Mix the Filling
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In a large bowl, combine the chicken with rice, beans, salsa, and seasonings.
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Layer the Casserole
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Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
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Place a layer of tortillas on the bottom.
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Add a layer of the chicken mixture.
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Sprinkle cheese generously.
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Repeat layers until the dish is full, finishing with cheese on top.
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Bake
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Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Serve
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Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
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Top with sour cream, cilantro, or avocado slices.
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Tips for the Best Chicken Burrito Casserole
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Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
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Don’t overstuff layers; keep them even for better baking.
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Add veggies like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
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Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
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Meal prep friendly: Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
Variations to Try
One of the best parts about Chicken Burrito Casserole is how versatile it is. Here are some creative twists:
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Creamy Chicken Burrito Casserole
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Mix cream cheese or sour cream into the filling for a rich, creamy texture.
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Spicy Chicken Burrito Casserole
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Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
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Low-Carb Version
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Swap tortillas for low-carb wraps or use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
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Vegetarian Style
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Skip the chicken and double the beans, or use tofu for a protein boost.
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Breakfast Burrito Casserole
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Add scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and potatoes for a morning twist.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken Burrito Casserole with:
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Mexican street corn (elote)
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Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips
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A side salad with avocado and lime dressing
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Churros or flan for dessert
Storing and Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Cover tightly with foil.
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Reheating: Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave individual portions.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
(Estimated for 8 servings)
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Calories: 420
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Fat: 18g
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Fiber: 6g
This makes Chicken Burrito Casserole a filling, protein-packed meal that fits into most balanced diets.
Why This Recipe Works for Meal Prep
If you’re looking for a dish that simplifies your weekly cooking, Chicken Burrito Casserole is ideal:
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Prepare ahead and store in the fridge or freezer.
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Portion into containers for ready-to-go lunches.
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Reheats perfectly without losing flavor or texture.
It’s a smart way to save time while still eating homemade, delicious food.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, but they may break down faster. Toast them slightly before layering to prevent sogginess.
2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip cheese and top with guacamole instead.
3. Can I cook the casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes. Assemble as usual and cook on low for 3–4 hours. Add cheese at the end and let it melt before serving.
4. What’s the best chicken to use?
Shredded rotisserie chicken is the quickest option, but you can also use grilled or leftover chicken.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a simple meal prep recipe, Chicken Burrito Casserole is the perfect choice. It’s comforting, customizable, and packed with Mexican flavors everyone loves.
Try it once, and it will become a regular in your weekly dinner rotation. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings, spice levels, and variations to make it your own.
