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Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe

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4.2 from 290 reviews

This easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a flavorful, one-dish meal combining shredded chicken, brown rice, beans, corn, and a blend of spices baked to perfection and topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it features a mild heat from fajita seasoning and cayenne, balanced with creamy cheese and fresh garnishes.

Ingredients

Main 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 ounce) can low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 5 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (4 ounce) can mild green chilies
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the finely diced onion, diced red bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to mix everything evenly.
  2. Mix the liquid ingredients: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, mild green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until fully combined to create a flavorful broth mixture.
  3. Combine the mixtures: Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish with the rice and vegetable mixture. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated and the ingredients are combined.
  4. Add proteins and vegetables: Add the shredded cooked chicken, drained black beans, and frozen corn kernels to the baking dish. Stir again to distribute all ingredients evenly throughout the casserole.
  5. Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminium foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 65-70 minutes or until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender.
  6. Add cheese topping: Carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  7. Melt the cheese: Return the uncovered casserole dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese has melted and turns slightly golden.
  8. Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld and the casserole set. Serve garnished with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, salsa, and avocado if desired.

Notes

  • Baking times can vary depending on your oven and rice type. Ensure the liquid is absorbed before adding cheese—if still soupy, give it a stir and bake longer.
  • Homemade fajita seasoning adds great flavor, but store-bought or taco seasoning works well as substitutes.
  • If you don’t have pre-cooked shredded chicken, roast, boil, or use a rotisserie chicken to prepare 5 cups of shredded meat.
  • Allow the casserole to rest after baking; this helps absorb any remaining liquids and makes serving easier.
  • Feel free to customize garnishes to your taste for added freshness and texture.

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/easy-chicken-burrito-casserole-recipe/