Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can corn, drained; 1 cup salsa; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups shredded cheese; 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 8 large flour tortillas; Sour cream; Sliced jalapeños; Chopped green onions

Highlighted under: Quick Bites

I absolutely love making this Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole! It combines all my favorite Mexican flavors into one easy-to-make dish. The best part is that it comes together seamlessly, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. With tender shredded chicken, zesty beans, and plenty of cheesy goodness, this casserole has become a go-to recipe in our house. I find that it’s even better the next day, making it an ideal option for meal prep. Let's dive into creating this delicious comfort food!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-27T14:41:35.401Z

When I first experimented with this casserole, I was looking for a dish that everyone would enjoy without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of ingredients surprised me with how delicious and comforting it turned out to be. I particularly loved adding taco seasoning to the chicken mixture; it infused the casserole with a delightful spice.

As I baked it, the cheese melted beautifully, creating a rich layer that brought it all together. I recommend using fresh cilantro as a garnish—it adds a wonderful freshness that elevates the dish. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with all the classic burrito flavors I adore.
Convenient one-dish meal that's perfect for sharing.
Easily customizable based on your favorite toppings!

Preparing the Chicken

When it comes to shredded chicken, using cooked rotisserie chicken can save a lot of time without sacrificing flavor. Simply pull the meat off the bones and shred it with two forks. You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. The key here is to ensure the chicken is moist, as it will help keep the casserole flavorful and avoid a dry texture.

If you prefer to cook your chicken from scratch, boiling is an effective method. Place the chicken in a pot with enough water to cover it. Add salt, pepper, and spices of your choice. Simmer on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through, then shred it once it’s cooled slightly.

Layering Techniques

Layering is essential when building this casserole to ensure every bite is filled with flavor. Start with a generous portion of tortillas for the base; they should completely cover the bottom of the dish. This not only aids in keeping the filling intact but also provides a great texture as they soften slightly during baking.

As you layer, be mindful of equitably distributing the filling. The mixture of chicken, beans, and veggies should be spread uniformly over the tortillas and between layers, ensuring that no section of the casserole is too dry or bland. A spatula can help flatten and spread out the mixture effectively.

Storage and Reheating

This Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. After baking, allow it to cool completely before pressing plastic wrap directly against the surface, preventing moisture loss. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for longer shelf life, up to three months.

When ready to reheat, if it’s frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Rewarm in the oven covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which should take about 30 minutes. For individual servings, the microwave is quick and convenient; just be sure to check the temperature is consistent throughout to avoid cold spots.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can corn, drained
1 cup salsa
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups cooked rice
2 cups shredded cheese
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
8 large flour tortillas

For Topping

Sour cream
Sliced jalapeños
Chopped green onions

Instructions

Instructions

Directions

Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, taco seasoning, cooked rice, and half the cheese. Stir until well mixed.

Layer the Tortillas

Place a layer of tortillas at the bottom of a greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly.

Add Chicken Mixture

Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, and then sprinkle with half of the remaining cheese.

Repeat Layers

Repeat the layering process with another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken mixture and cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, jalapeños, and green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious casserole!

Pro Tips

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Also, consider adding bell peppers or avocado for some extra flavor!

Making It Your Own

Customization is a significant perk of this casserole. You can switch out the black beans for pinto beans or even kidney beans based on your preference. For those looking to cut down on carbs, cauliflower rice can be a great substitute for regular rice, providing texture while keeping the dish lower in calories.

If you’re a fan of spice, adding diced green chilies to the chicken mixture can elevate the heat level. Alternatively, for creaminess, consider mixing in a cup of cream cheese or sour cream right into the filling before layering. This creates a delightful change in flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your casserole hot, straight from the oven, with a variety of toppings to let everyone personalize their meal. Fresh cilantro adds brightness, while sliced jalapeños can give that extra kick. A dollop of sour cream on top brings a creamy texture that contrasts well with the spicy components beneath.

For a complete meal, serve this casserole with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. The freshness of a salad can balance the hearty elements of the casserole, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your casserole is getting too brown on top before it's heated through, simply cover it with foil to finish baking. This will help prevent burning while allowing the filling to warm properly. Additionally, if the mixture seems dry after baking, adding a splash of broth or salsa before covering it can reintroduce moisture for your next bake.

In case of extra liquid collecting in the dish, this may be due to excess moisture from the beans or salsa. To mitigate this issue, drain the beans thoroughly and consider using thicker salsa or reducing the amount by a few tablespoons. A thicker consistency allows the casserole to hold together nicely when served.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Just assemble it up to the baking point, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use ground beef, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out.