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Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 19 reviews

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a hearty, flavorful one-dish meal combining tender shredded chicken, brown rice, black beans, colorful vegetables, and a blend of spices. Topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese, this casserole bakes to perfection with a crispy, cheesy crust and is perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen)
  • 1 4-ounce can mild green chilies

Protein and Beans

  • 5 cups shredded chicken
  • 1 14-ounce can low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed

Grains and Starches

  • 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (can substitute with long grain white rice)

Seasonings and Condiments

  • 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Liquids

  • 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth

Cheese

  • 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Rice Mixture: Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the diced onion, red bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients evenly.
  2. Prepare Broth Mixture: In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, mild green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine Broth with Rice Mixture: Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish over the rice and vegetable mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated and combined.
  4. Add Chicken, Beans, and Corn: Add the shredded chicken, drained black beans, and corn kernels to the baking dish. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are incorporated.
  5. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
  6. Add Cheese Topping: Carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  7. Final Melt: Return the uncovered dish to the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted thoroughly and is lightly golden on top.
  8. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, salsa, and avocado if desired for added freshness and flavor.

Notes

  • Use parboiled brown rice for best texture; white rice can be substituted but may alter cooking time slightly.
  • If you prefer more heat, increase cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.
  • Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • This casserole can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit cheese or substitute with vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, burrito casserole, baked chicken dish, easy dinner, one dish meal, Mexican casserole, healthy chicken recipe

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