One-Dish Mexican Chicken Delight

This chicken burrito casserole transforms classic burrito flavors into a convenient and family-friendly meal. The combination of tender shredded chicken, black beans, corn and rice creates a complete one-dish dinner that's both satisfying and nutritious. The melted cheese topping adds that irresistible comfort food appeal without the fuss of rolling individual burritos.

I first made this casserole during a busy weeknight when I needed something substantial that wouldn't keep me in the kitchen all evening. My family devoured it so enthusiastically that it's now on regular rotation in our meal planning.

Ingredients

• Onion and red bell pepper: Provide aromatic flavor and nutritional value. Choose firm peppers with vibrant color
• Parboiled long grain brown rice: Creates the hearty base. This particular rice variety holds its texture well without getting mushy
• Fajita seasoning: Delivers authentic Mexican flavor without measuring multiple spices
• Cayenne pepper: Adds optional heat that you can adjust to your family's preference
• Frozen corn kernels: Provide sweet pops of flavor. No need to thaw before adding
• Black beans: Offer plant based protein and fiber. Rinsing removes excess sodium
• Shredded chicken: Makes this a complete meal. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here
• Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with flavor as it cooks. Look for low sodium options
• Green chilies: Add mild heat and authentic Mexican flavor
• Olive oil and tomato paste: Create richness and depth of flavor
• Monterey Jack cheese: Forms a melty golden topping. Freshly grated melts more smoothly than pre shredded

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Base:

Combine onion, bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning and cayenne pepper in your baking dish. This single dish preparation minimizes cleanup and allows the rice to absorb all the flavors as it cooks. Make sure to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the mixture.

Prepare the Liquid:

Whisk together chicken broth, green chilies, tomato paste and olive oil until completely incorporated. The tomato paste might resist blending at first, so be persistent until you have a smooth mixture. This liquid blend will cook the rice while infusing it with flavor.

Combine All Ingredients:

Add the liquid mixture to your baking dish and stir well to combine with the rice mixture. Then fold in the shredded chicken, black beans and corn until everything is evenly distributed. Ensure the rice is fully submerged in liquid so it cooks properly.

Bake Covered:

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 65 to 70 minutes. The foil creates a sealed environment that traps steam and cooks the rice properly. Resist the urge to peek during cooking as releasing that steam will affect cooking time.

Add Cheese Topping:

Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese evenly across the top, and return to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes. Watch closely during this final bake to achieve your preferred level of golden browning on the cheese. Let the casserole rest briefly before serving.

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The combination of fajita seasoning with green chilies is what gives this dish its distinctive Tex Mex flavor profile. I remember the first time I made this for my neighbors during a block party they were amazed that something so flavorful could come from such a simple preparation. Many asked for the recipe before the evening was over.

Perfect For Picky Eaters

This casserole is wonderfully adaptable for households with varied preferences. The base recipe is mildly flavored but can be personalized at the table with toppings. I serve it with small bowls of sliced jalapeños, extra cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce so everyone can adjust the heat and flavor to their liking. For children who may be sensitive to spice, you can even divide the casserole before baking and make half without the cayenne pepper.

Storage And Freezing Tips

This casserole keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, portion the cooled casserole into freezer safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel on top to prevent drying out. The texture remains surprisingly good even after freezing.

Make It Your Own

While this recipe is delicious as written, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Try using ground beef or turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor profile. Vegetarians can omit the meat entirely and double the beans for a protein rich meatless version. You can also experiment with different cheese blends such as adding sharp cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper.

Common Queries

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can substitute long grain white rice for the parboiled brown rice. Just note that white rice typically requires less cooking time, so begin checking for doneness around 45-50 minutes instead of the full 65-70 minutes. The casserole is ready when the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

→ How do I prepare shredded chicken for this casserole?

There are several easy methods to prepare shredded chicken: use a store-bought rotisserie chicken and pull it apart; boil chicken breasts in water or broth until cooked through (about 15-20 minutes); or bake chicken breasts at 375°F for 25 minutes. Once cooked through, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since you're starting with cold ingredients. Alternatively, you can fully bake the casserole, cool completely, and refrigerate for 3-4 days, reheating portions as needed.

→ What can I serve with chicken burrito casserole?

This casserole works well with simple sides like a crisp green salad, Mexican street corn, or tortilla chips. For toppings, consider fresh avocado or guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors. A side of Mexican rice or refried beans can also complement the meal.

→ Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, this chicken burrito casserole freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely after baking, then portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire casserole tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top for the last few minutes if desired.

→ How can I make this casserole spicier?

To increase the heat level, you can add more cayenne pepper, use hot green chilies instead of mild, incorporate diced jalapeños or serrano peppers with the vegetables, use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack, or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the broth mixture. You can also serve with hot salsa or sliced fresh chiles as a topping.