If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together with minimal fuss, this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine layers of tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty tomatoes all baked together with soft tortillas—creating the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. This casserole captures all the essence of a classic burrito but with the ease and convenience of a one-dish meal. It’s tasty, satisfying, and sure to become one of your go-to recipes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward a delicious meal that balances creamy, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. Each component plays a key role: the tortillas add structure, cheese brings melty goodness, and the combination of chicken with Rotel tomatoes adds that perfect punch of flavor and color.
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie for convenience and tenderness.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup: This creates a rich, creamy base that binds the casserole beautifully.
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained: Adds a zesty kick and vibrant color.
- 1 cup sour cream: Balances the heat with a tangy creaminess that smooths every bite.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Brings that classic Tex-Mex flair to the dish with a blend of spices.
- 6 large flour tortillas, cut into quarters: Acts as the layers that soak up the sauce and keep the casserole hearty.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: Provides gooey, melty richness that pulls everything together.
- 1/2 cup black beans (optional): Adds texture and protein for extra heartiness.
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional): Offers a sweet crunch that contrasts the creamy sauce.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish: Brings a fresh, bright finish that lifts the dish.
How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and can be served straight from the pan with ease.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce Base
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, undrained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Stir everything until you have a smooth, creamy mixture that will flavor every layer of the casserole.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture onto the bottom of the prepared dish to prevent sticking and add flavor. Follow this with a layer of tortilla quarters, then about one-third of the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn if you’re using them. Cover this with another portion of sauce and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Keep repeating these layers—tortillas, chicken and veggies, sauce, and cheese—until all ingredients are used up. Make sure the very top layer ends with sauce and plenty of cheese for a golden, bubbly finish.
Step 4: Bake Covered, Then Uncovered
Cover your casserole loosely with aluminum foil and bake it for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese on top is perfectly melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown—this step ensures that irresistible cheesy crust.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before sprinkling with chopped fresh cilantro and add your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa to enhance the burrito experience.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a classic garnish that brings brightness and a fresh herbal note to the rich casserole. Don’t be shy with dollops of sour cream to cool the spice or a few spoonfuls of chunky salsa or creamy guacamole to kick up the flavor and texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal in itself, but serving it alongside a light green salad or some simple Mexican rice complements the richness beautifully. A platter of sliced avocado or a handful of tortilla chips on the side also adds variety and fun to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family dinner, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves. For a special occasion, you can cut it into neat squares and plate each portion with a drizzle of crema and sprinkles of fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and chopped green onions for a colorful, restaurant-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole covered in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating keeps it gooey and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this dish because it’s already cooked and full of flavor, saving you precious prep time.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you want to avoid canned soups, you can make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk, seasoned to taste. This will keep the casserole creamy and delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken for extra black beans, corn, and perhaps some sautéed peppers and onions for a meat-free version that’s just as satisfying.
Can I prepare the casserole the night before?
You can assemble it in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from cold.
How spicy is the casserole with Rotel and taco seasoning?
The heat is mild to moderate, perfect for most palates. If you prefer more spice, feel free to add jalapeños or extra chili powder to taste.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is a total game-changer for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without the hassle. It’s cozy, cheesy, and full of bold flavors that bring everyone to the table with smiles. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how effortlessly wonderful a burrito casserole can be!
Print
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a delicious and comforting Mexican-inspired baked dish that combines shredded chicken, creamy sauce, tortillas, and melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it layers seasoned chicken, beans, corn, and cheese in a casserole dish and bakes to bubbly perfection, garnished with fresh cilantro and your favorite toppings like sour cream and guacamole.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet taco seasoning
Assembly
- 6 large flour tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup black beans (optional)
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained), sour cream, and taco seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add a layer of quartered flour tortillas, followed by one-third of the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn if using. Spoon sauce mixture over, then sprinkle with cheese. Repeat layering two more times, ending with a final layer of sauce and cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.
Notes
- For extra spice, add more diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free option, but note the texture will differ.
- Black beans and corn are optional but add extra texture and nutrition.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute sour cream and cheese with vegan alternatives.
