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This hearty Chicken Burrito Casserole has become my weeknight lifesaver for busy evenings when I crave Mexican flavors but don't have time to roll individual burritos. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity - all your favorite burrito fillings baked together in one casserole dish, creating layers of flavor that meld perfectly during baking.
I first created this recipe during a particularly chaotic week when my kids had different activities every night. The entire family devoured it, and now it appears on our monthly rotation whenever we need a comforting meal that satisfies everyone.
Ingredients
- Parboiled long grain brown rice: Creates the perfect hearty base and won't get mushy during baking
- Fajita seasoning: Provides authentic Mexican flavor without measuring multiple spices
- Shredded chicken: Delivers lean protein and can be prepared ahead or from rotisserie chicken for convenience
- Black beans: Add plant based protein and hearty texture
- Monterey Jack cheese: Creates that irresistible golden cheesy crust
- Green chilies: Contribute mild heat and authentic southwestern flavor
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory goodness as it cooks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, uncooked rice, and seasonings to your baking dish. This step creates the flavor foundation of your casserole. The seasonings will bloom in the oven, infusing the rice with Mexican-inspired flavors as everything cooks together.
- Create the Cooking Liquid:
- Whisk together chicken broth, green chilies, tomato paste and olive oil until completely combined. This liquid mixture will cook the rice perfectly while adding depth of flavor. The tomato paste adds richness and color while the green chilies provide that authentic Southwestern touch.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the liquid to your baking dish along with the shredded chicken, black beans and corn. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients. This ensures that every bite will contain the perfect balance of protein, vegetables and rice.
- Covered Bake:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 65-70 minutes. The foil traps steam which cooks the rice perfectly and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. This hands-off cooking time is what makes this recipe so convenient for busy weeknights.
- Add the Cheese Finish:
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheese, and return to the oven for that golden, bubbly finish. This final step creates that irresistible cheesy crust that everyone will fight over. Let it get slightly golden for the best flavor and texture.
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This recipe reminds me of the burritos my grandmother would make when we visited her in New Mexico. She always said the secret to good Mexican food was letting the ingredients have time to "get to know each other" - exactly what happens in this casserole as it slowly bakes to perfection.
Perfect Pairings
This casserole stands beautifully on its own, but for a complete feast, serve with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. The bright acidity cuts through the rich, savory flavors of the casserole. For entertaining, set up a toppings bar with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, and pico de gallo so everyone can customize their portion.
Make-Ahead Magic
One of the greatest advantages of this casserole is its make-ahead potential. You can assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, add about 10 minutes to the covered baking time since you're starting with cold ingredients. Alternatively, bake the entire casserole, cool completely, and portion into containers for perfect grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Ingredient Swaps
This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Swap the chicken for browned ground beef or turkey for a different flavor profile. Vegetarians can double the beans or add crumbled tofu. Red or pinto beans work just as well as black beans, and you can substitute any melting cheese like cheddar or pepper jack. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility while maintaining that comforting Mexican-inspired flavor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can use long-grain white rice as a substitute for brown rice. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as white rice often cooks faster.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more spice, include extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. You can also use a spicier fajita seasoning or hot green chilies.
- → Can I use store-bought fajita seasoning?
Absolutely! Store-bought fajita seasoning works well, but homemade is a great option to control the flavors and spice levels.
- → What toppings go well with this casserole?
Try adding fresh cilantro, diced avocado, salsa, sour cream, or green onions to enhance the flavor and visual appeal.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and keep it refrigerated before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.