Cheesy Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole for Busy Nights

It is 6pm and your kitchen is busy. You need a dinner that feels like a win. This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is the answer to your prayers.

It is warm, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Your whole family will come running to the table. This recipe delivers big flavor with very little effort. It is the perfect stress-free meal for any night.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a total lifesaver for busy parents. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have. You get all the flavor of burritos without the messy rolling. It is a budget-friendly winner that feeds a crowd easily.

The texture is wonderful and comforting. You get layers of soft tortillas and tender chicken. The melted cheese makes every bite feel special. It is perfect for picky eaters who love simple flavors.

Simple Cooking Steps

Making this casserole is as easy as layering a cake. You just mix your filling and stack it up. There are no complicated techniques to worry about. Even beginner cooks can master this dish on the first try.

Using pre-cooked chicken is a great shortcut. It keeps your active prep time very short. You can have this in the oven in 15 minutes. It is truly doable even on your busiest days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of these items are pantry staples that stay fresh for a long time.

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 6 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Place two tortillas in the bottom of the prepared dish, cutting to fit if necessary.
4. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of cheese.
5. Repeat the layers: two more tortillas, the remaining chicken mixture, and 1/2 cup of cheese.
6. Top with the final two tortillas and the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
7. Bake for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let stand for 5 minutes before slicing and garnish with cilantro.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven. Add a dollop of cool sour cream on top. Fresh avocado slices or guacamole add a nice creaminess. You can also serve it with a simple side salad.

For a fun family night, set out toppings. Let everyone customize their own plate. This makes dinner feel like a mini fiesta. It is a great way to bond over a meal.

Keep It Fresh

Leftovers stay delicious for up to three days. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave. For the best texture, use a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

This dish also freezes quite well. Wrap it tightly before putting it in the freezer. It is a great make-ahead option for busy weeks. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t skip the five-minute resting time after baking.
• Use a rotisserie chicken to save even more time.
• Avoid soggy tortillas by draining your beans and corn well.
• Double the recipe if you are feeding a big group.
• Add a handful of fresh summer peppers for extra crunch.
• Use mild salsa if you are cooking for small children.
• Grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking.
• Swap flour tortillas for corn for a different texture.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Swap the black beans for pinto beans for a creamier fill.
• Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a lean option.
• Add diced jalapeños if you want a spicy kick.
• Try a dairy-free cheese to make it vegan-friendly.

Common Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge until you bake. You may need five extra minutes in the oven.

How do I know when it is done?

Look for the cheese to be fully melted. The edges should be golden and bubbling. The center should feel hot to the touch.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It is very mild as written. You can control the heat with your salsa choice. It is very kid-friendly for most families.

I hope this cheesy casserole brings some ease to your busy week. There is nothing better than a warm meal shared with family. Happy cooking!

— Lidia