Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup salsa; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend); 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1/4 cup diced green onions; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 tortillas, cut into strips; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Magic

I absolutely love creating comforting casseroles, and this Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole is no exception. It's a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite at family gatherings. The combination of shredded chicken, zesty spices, and creamy cheese all baked together creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether it's for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-28T00:53:35.540Z

When I decided to make this casserole for the first time, I wanted something that would remind me of my favorite burritos but in a more shareable format. I tried layering everything in a baking dish, which ensured that every bite had a perfect combination of flavors. The result was an explosion of taste that had my family going back for seconds!

A key tip I learned along the way is to season the chicken well before shredding it, as this infuses the mixture with more flavor. I also like to add a bit of lime juice for a refreshing twist that brightens every bite. Trust me, this dish is a flavorful game-changer!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory layers of shredded chicken and rice packed with bold flavors
Creamy, cheesy topping that brings everything together beautifully
Great for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers later

Flavorful Combinations

The beauty of the Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole lies in its flavorful combinations. The zesty taco seasoning intensifies the taste of the shredded chicken, while the black beans and corn provide a delightful contrast in texture and earthiness. When mixed with the salsa, these ingredients create a savory mixture that is both hearty and comforting. This balance of flavors ensures that every bite is satisfying and full of zest, perfect for a family meal or a friendly gathering.

Adding lime juice not only brightens the flavors but also cuts through the richness of the cheese, lending an essential acidity to the dish. This simple twist can elevate the whole casserole, making it more refreshing. The diced green onions provide a light crunch and subtle onion flavor, enhancing the overall experience while keeping the dish from feeling too heavy.

Layering Techniques

When layering your casserole, it’s crucial to evenly distribute the ingredients to ensure consistent flavor and texture throughout. Starting with half of the chicken mixture on the bottom helps form a solid base, while the tortilla strips add a nice texture that contrasts with the creamy cheese on top. I recommend breaking the tortillas into different sizes rather than uniform strips; this irregularity allows for more crispy edges when baked.

For the topping, using a combination of cheeses can introduce a variety of flavors and enhance the creaminess. Cheddar offers sharpness, while a melting cheese, like Monterey Jack, enhances the gooey texture on top. Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of baking; you want the cheese to be bubbly and starting to turn golden, which indicates it's beautifully melted and has developed a lovely crust.

Make-Ahead Options

This casserole is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can assemble it the day before and simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it rest on the counter for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven; this helps ensure even cooking. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

For leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating it in the oven will retain better texture than the microwave. Aim for 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, and then uncover for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the top again. You can top it with fresh toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado when serving to bring some freshness back to the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these flavorful ingredients to create the perfect burrito casserole:

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup salsa
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1/4 cup diced green onions
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 tortillas, cut into strips
Salt and pepper to taste

With all these ingredients prepared, you are ready to assemble your casserole!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cooked rice, salsa, taco seasoning, green onions, and lime juice. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, spread half of the chicken mixture evenly. Layer with half of the tortilla strips and one cup of cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a topping of cheese.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with extra green onions or sour cream if desired.

Your Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole is now ready to delight your taste buds!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in some diced bell peppers or jalapeños. Leftovers also make for delicious wraps or quesadillas the next day.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is quite flexible, and you can easily swap out ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, if you prefer turkey or a plant-based protein, shredded rotisserie chicken can be replaced with shredded cooked turkey or a combination of beans and quinoa for a vegetarian option. Additionally, cauliflower rice is a wonderful low-carb substitute for traditional rice while maintaining a similar texture.

If you’re not a fan of black beans, consider using pinto beans or even chickpeas for a different flavor profile. You can also alter the level of heat by choosing different salsas—mild, medium, or hot—depending on your family's preferences. Make it your own by adjusting the toppings too, such as using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or a blend of Mexican cheeses for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To make your Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh side salad. This can balance the richness of the casserole and add a bright crunch. A simple side of mixed greens dressed with olive oil and lime juice works wonderfully, or go for a heartier side such as cilantro lime rice, which complements the casserole's flavors.

For extra toppings, I love adding diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or chopped jalapeños to bring a touch of freshness. You can also offer a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side. These condiments not only add creaminess but also balance the spices used in the casserole, making every bite delightful and fulfilling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

→ Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure the tortillas and salsa are labeled gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.

→ What should I serve with the casserole?

It pairs nicely with a fresh salad or some guacamole on the side.