Chicken Burrito Casserole Bake (Print-Friendly Version)

Packed with shredded chicken, brown rice, black beans, corn, and melted cheese, this cozy casserole is a hearty choice for weeknight dinners, especially in cooler months. High-protein and easy to prep ahead, it's one to keep handy.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1/2 cup finely diced onion
02 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
03 - 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice or long-grain white rice
04 - 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning
05 - 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
06 - 1 cup frozen corn kernels
07 - 1 can (14 ounces) low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 5 cups shredded cooked chicken
09 - 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
10 - 1 can (4 ounces) mild green chilies
11 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
12 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
13 - 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, combine onion, bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper if desired. Mix well to distribute seasonings evenly.
02 - In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until fully blended.
03 - Pour the broth mixture over the rice mixture in the baking dish. Stir thoroughly until the liquid is evenly distributed.
04 - Add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn kernels to the mixture. Stir again until all ingredients are well incorporated.
05 - Cover the baking dish securely with aluminum foil and place in preheated oven. Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
06 - Remove the dish from the oven and discard foil. Evenly sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese across the top. Return to the oven, uncovered, for 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
07 - Carefully remove casserole from oven. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, green onions, salsa, and avocado as desired.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Ensure the rice is uncooked before adding to the baking dish to achieve proper texture after baking.