Name: Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup finely diced onion; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (can also use long grain white rice); 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought); 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 cup corn kernels (frozen); 1 (14-ounce) can low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed; 5 cups shredded chicken; 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth; 1 (4-ounce) can mild green chilies; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

I am so excited to share this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe with you because it feels like a big, comforting hug on a plate. Every bite is bursting with hearty, zesty flavors, from the tender shredded chicken and smoky fajita seasoning to the melty Monterey Jack cheese topping. I love how this dish comes together in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners with friends and family. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with ingredients that balance texture and color beautifully. Once you try it, I think you’ll agree it’s a new favorite!

Why You'll Love This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe

What truly makes this recipe stand out for me is the wonderful flavor marriage. The fajita seasoning gives it that perfect Southwestern kick without overpowering the dish, while the subtle heat from a touch of cayenne is just enough to keep things interesting. The combination of corn, bell pepper, and black beans adds a sweet-earthy freshness that I find incredibly comforting. I love how the rice soaks up all the savory broth and tomato paste, making every spoonful satisfyingly rich and cohesive.

Another reason I’m such a fan is how ridiculously easy it is to prepare. All the ingredients go into a single baking dish before popping it in the oven, so cleanup is a breeze. I think simplicity is underrated, and this recipe nails that by allowing busy cooks to get dinner on the table without fuss or complicated steps. I appreciate casseroles that feel homemade but don’t require standing over the stove for hours.

Finally, this casserole is just perfect for so many occasions. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or bringing a crowd-pleaser to a potluck, it never lets me down. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course, yet adaptable to suit different tastes and side dishes. You can dress it up or keep it casual, and it always shines.

Ingredients You'll Need

A top-down view of several small white bowls and a glass container arranged neatly on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. The largest bowl at the bottom right contains shredded light beige chicken, next to it on the left is a bowl of light brown cooked rice. Above the rice is a small glass bowl with a bright red paste. Near the top center is a speckled white bowl filled with dark black beans. To the top left of the beans is a small white bowl with diced white onions. To the right of the beans is a glass bowl with a chunky mixture of greenish chopped vegetables. To the far right, a whole red bell pepper provides a pop of color. Below the pepper is a white bowl filled with yellowish corn kernels. Further down is a white bowl with a heap of shredded white cheese. In the center, a small patterned white bowl holds a reddish-brown spice blend. Next to the chicken on the right is a glass measuring cup with light yellow liquid. All items are spaced out neatly on the white marbled background photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is that it calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create layers of taste and texture. Each one plays a role in balancing the dish’s flavor or adding vibrant color to make it look as good as it tastes.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Onion: Finely diced to bring sweetness and depth to the base of the dish.
Red bell pepper: Adds a juicy crunch and vibrant color that brightens the casserole.
Long-grain brown rice: Provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture that holds up well during baking.
Fajita seasoning: The key spice blend that infuses the dish with signature Southwestern warmth.
Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a subtle kick for those who like a touch of heat.
Corn kernels: Sweet bursts of flavor that contrast with the savory elements.
Black beans: For heartiness and an earthy undertone, plus added protein and fiber.
Shredded chicken: Tender and juicy, it’s the protein star that makes the casserole filling.
Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory depth and keeps everything moist and flavorful.
Green chilies: Mild heat and tangy brightness that elevate the overall flavor profile.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps bind the tomato paste into the broth mixture.
Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the savory notes of the casserole.
Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating a cheesy, golden crust.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the finely diced onion, diced red bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Stir everything together well so that the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Step 2: 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 fully combined. This will be the flavorful cooking liquid for your casserole.

Step 3: Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish with the rice and vegetable mixture. Stir carefully to ensure everything is mixed well and the rice is coated by the broth.

Step 4: Add the shredded chicken, drained black beans, and corn kernels to the dish. Give it one last good stir until everything is evenly incorporated, making sure the rice is submerged in the liquid for even cooking.

Step 5: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam during baking, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the foil too often to keep the moisture trapped inside.

Step 6: Once the baking time is complete, carefully remove the dish from the oven and take off the foil. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling with golden, slightly crispy edges.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. I love garnishing mine with fresh cilantro, chopped green onion, salsa, and diced avocado for a finishing touch that adds freshness and creaminess.

Servings and Timing

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe yields about 8 generous servings, which makes it perfect for families or for meal prep. The prep time is around 15 minutes, mostly for chopping and mixing ingredients. The baking time is about 70 to 80 minutes total, including the cheese-melting step, so you’re looking at roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. Allowing it to cool for 5 to 10 minutes helps the casserole set so it’s easier to plate and enjoy.

How to Serve This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe

A white ridged plate holds a colorful layered dish starting with a base of shredded brownish-orange chicken mixed with black beans and yellow corn. On top of this are scattered bright green avocado chunks and chopped green onion slices. The dish is garnished with finely chopped fresh herbs and has a dollop of smooth white sour cream sitting in the center. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this casserole warm straight from the oven when the cheese is still gooey, but letting it sit for a few minutes really helps the flavors blend and the dish to firm up for cleaner slices. It’s fantastic alongside a bright, crisp side salad or simple guacamole and tortilla chips to keep the theme going. For a heartier meal, adding Mexican street corn or roasted vegetables feels like a perfect complementary touch.

Presentation is fun and easy here—I often scatter freshly chopped cilantro and green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime can also elevate the plating with tangy brightness. For a little extra flair, I sometimes serve it with a small bowl of salsa roja or pico de gallo on the side.

When it comes to beverages, I’m a fan of pairing this dish with a chilled margarita or an ice-cold Mexican lager. If you prefer non-alcoholic, a sparkling limeade or iced hibiscus tea balances the rich, spicy flavors beautifully. It’s such a versatile dish that suits casual family dinners as much as lively gatherings with friends.

Variations

I like to experiment with this recipe depending on what I have on hand or specific dietary needs. For instance, swapping the brown rice for white rice creates a softer texture and cooks a bit faster. If you want to keep it gluten-free, just make sure your fajita seasoning and broth are gluten-free certified.

For vegetarian or vegan twists, you can replace the shredded chicken with hearty grilled vegetables or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Consider using vegan cheese or a cashew-based cheese sauce to keep the melty topping vibe going. Adding beans like pinto or kidney instead of black beans changes the flavor subtly and adds variety.

If you want to amp up the smoky flavor, adding chipotle peppers in adobo or smoked paprika into the seasoning mix does wonders. Alternatively, swapping out the Monterey Jack cheese for a sharp cheddar or a blend with queso fresco offers interesting cheesy notes. You can also try making this on a stovetop by simmering everything in a large deep skillet covered with a lid, stirring occasionally, though baking helps build that lovely golden top.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I recommend storing any leftover casserole in an airtight container once it’s completely cooled. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to pack it in portions so reheating is quick and easy. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work wonderfully for this purpose.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully, so if you want to make it ahead, just let it cool completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, I sometimes leave off the cheese topping to add fresh cheese when reheating, which preserves the best cheesy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer using the oven or toaster oven set to 350°F, covering the casserole with foil to prevent drying out, and warming it for 20–30 minutes or until heated through. If you refrigerated it, letting it come to room temperature before reheating speeds things up. For individual portions, microwave reheating works fine but watch for uneven heating. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese or a quick fresh guacamole dollop can bring the flavors back to life.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds extra flavor and saves time. Just shred the chicken and toss it into the casserole as instructed.

Is this casserole spicy?

The recipe includes fajita seasoning and an optional pinch of cayenne pepper, which adds mild heat, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can always adjust the cayenne amount or omit it to suit your heat preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free fajita seasoning and chicken broth. Always double-check labels to be safe.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, guacamole, chips, salsa, or roasted veggies. Drinks like margaritas or light Mexican beer complement it well.

How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?

When all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender to the bite, your casserole is done. Usually, the 65 to 70 minute baking time is perfect, but you can check it near the end by tasting a small spoonful.

Conclusion

I can’t recommend this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe enough if you want a flavorful, fuss-free meal that pleases a crowd. It’s genuinely one of those recipes I keep returning to because it manages to be both comforting and exciting at the same time. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—it’s truly a winner in my kitchen!