Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 ½ cups salsa; 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and cheddar mix); 6 large flour tortillas, cut into quarters; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Sour cream and cilantro for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Recipe Vault

I love making Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole for its comforting layers and incredible flavor. This dish brings together tender, seasoned chicken, zesty beans, and gooey cheese, creating a mouthwatering experience for all. It's perfect for weeknight dinners when I'm craving something that feels indulgent but is easy to prepare. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious. I appreciate how customizable it is too—the toppings can range from fresh cilantro to creamy avocado, making it a family favorite!

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-27T12:57:35.108Z

Making the Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole was a delightful experience for me. I started with tender, slow-cooked chicken that I seasoned with a blend of spices, ensuring that every bite would burst with flavor. As I layered the ingredients, including black beans and salsa, it became clear that this would be a crowd-pleaser. I recommend letting the casserole rest briefly after baking to allow the layers to settle for easier serving.

Another tip I discovered was to use a mix of cheeses so that you can enjoy both the creaminess of Monterey Jack and the sharpness of cheddar in every layer. Experimenting with different toppings like sour cream and jalapeños adds an exciting twist and makes it a customizable dish that everyone will enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Layers of flavor that come together beautifully
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
Customizable with your favorite toppings

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of shredded chicken and black beans forms the protein backbone of this casserole. The chicken lends a tender texture, while black beans add a creamy consistency, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. When selecting chicken, using rotisserie cooked chicken can save time without sacrificing flavor. If you'd like to lean towards a healthier option, consider using skinless chicken breasts, which can be boiled and shredded easily in under 30 minutes.

Corn adds sweetness and a touch of crunch that balances the richness of the cheese and salsa. Opt for fresh corn when in season; just blanch it for a few minutes before adding it to the mix. Otherwise, frozen or canned corn works perfectly and requires no special preparation. This ingredient also contributes to the overall color of the dish, making it visually appealing when you serve it.

Crafting the Perfect Layers

Layering is crucial for achieving a well-balanced casserole. Start with a base of tortilla quarters, which help absorb some of the excess moisture from the salsa and chicken mixture. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy. Be sure to spread the ingredients evenly, ensuring every bite has a bit of tortilla, chicken, and cheese, for ultimate flavor distribution. You can use a spatula to smooth out the layers, ensuring nothing is clumped together.

It's important to finish with a generous layer of cheese to form a delicious, golden crust while baking. When choosing cheese, you might consider adding a bit of pepper jack for a spicy kick or using a dairy-free cheese alternative if you're looking to keep it vegan. Just be mindful of the melting properties of cheeses, as some might not achieve the same gooey texture as traditional dairy cheese.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Once your Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole is ready, allow it to cool slightly. This not only makes it easier to serve but also helps to set the layers, making for cleaner cuts. If you're looking to add more flavor at the table, consider setting out toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or guacamole so everyone can customize their serving to their liking. These add-ons enhance the dish with fresh flavors and textures that complement the cheesy layers.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheating is simple; just pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also freeze individual portions for a quick meal—just ensure to wrap it tightly before placing in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole:

Casserole Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 ½ cups salsa
2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and cheddar mix)
6 large flour tortillas, cut into quarters
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Sour cream and cilantro for topping (optional)

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the next step.

Instructions

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

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is seasoned evenly.

Layer the Casserole

In a baking dish, start layering by placing a few tortilla quarters at the bottom. Spread a portion of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, then add a layer of cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream and fresh cilantro, if desired, and enjoy your delicious creation!

Your Shredded Chicken Burrito Casserole is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce between the layers. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with extra beans or sautéed veggies!

Substitutions and Dietary Tweaks

For a vegetarian version of the casserole, simply replace the shredded chicken with diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also incorporate quinoa or rice for added substance. Additionally, to lighten the dish, go for low-fat cheese options or substitute half of the cheese with a veggie cheese blend. These alternatives not only change the flavor profile but also cater to different dietary needs while keeping the layers intact.

If you are avoiding gluten, consider using corn tortillas or gluten-free flour tortillas. They work exceptionally well in casseroles and won't fall apart in the baking process. When using gluten-free options, check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary requirements as ingredients can often vary between brands.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your casserole is too watery, it may be due to excess moisture from the salsa or beans. To remedy this, you can either reduce the salsa by simmering it on the stove until thickened before adding it to the mix or adjust the proportion of beans and corn accordingly. Additionally, using a slotted spoon to add the beans can help drain off any excess liquid.

In case the cheese on top doesn’t melt properly, it’s possible that the casserole was covered in foil for too long. Make sure to uncover it during the last part of baking to allow the top to brown and bubble beautifully. If you are preparing for a crowd and scaling up, use a larger baking dish to ensure even cooking and that heat circulates freely around the casserole.

Creative Variations

Try experimenting with different salsas to change the flavor profile of your casserole. A mango salsa can bring a sweet and fruity twist, whereas a tomatillo salsa can add a tangy bite. Adding ingredients such as diced green chilies or even chickpeas can introduce surprising flavors and textures while keeping the essence of the recipe intact. These variations are not only fun but can also impress those who may have had a traditional burrito casserole before.

For a mini version, consider making individual servings in muffin tins. Use smaller tortilla pieces and layer as you would in the casserole dish. Bake for about 15 minutes, and you’ll have bite-sized burrito casseroles perfect for parties or meal prep. These portions are not only visually appealing but also easy to serve and enjoy on the go!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and still deliver great flavor.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in foil and store it for up to 3 months. Bake it straight from the freezer, adding a little extra time to the cooking process.

→ What can I use instead of flour tortillas?

Feel free to use corn tortillas or even zucchini slices as a low-carb alternative.