This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the delicious taste of a burrito into a casserole form. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and packed with savory ingredients that make it the perfect dinner option when you want a satisfying, healthy meal without all the extra carbs.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 12g
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Optional (can use dairy-free cheese)
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole combines all the delicious flavors of a chicken burrito in a casserole dish, making it easy to enjoy a healthy, comforting meal. It’s a great low-carb alternative to traditional burritos, without compromising on flavor. The casserole can also be prepared in advance for easy meal prep!
Ingredients to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty casserole:
Chicken breast (boneless, skinless, cooked and shredded): 2 cups
A lean protein that serves as the base of this casserole. You can also use rotisserie chicken for added convenience, ensuring a quicker prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Cauliflower rice: 2 cups
A low-carb, high-fiber alternative to traditional rice. It keeps the carb count low while providing a similar texture to regular rice, making it a great substitute.
Bell pepper (diced): 1 medium
Adds color and crunch to the casserole while providing a healthy dose of vitamin C. Choose any color bell pepper you like, such as red, yellow, or green.
Onion (diced): 1 small
A savory flavor enhancer that brings out the natural sweetness of the bell pepper and the richness of the chicken. It adds depth and aroma to the casserole.
Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
A flavorful ingredient that adds depth and complexity to the casserole. Fresh garlic will give the best results, but garlic powder can be used as an alternative.
Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
Adds a rich, slightly sweet, and concentrated tomato flavor to the casserole, balancing out the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend): 1/2 cup
Adds a creamy, melty topping that makes the casserole extra indulgent. You can choose a blend of cheddar and mozzarella or stick with just one type, depending on your preference.
Spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika):
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
These spices are what give the casserole that signature burrito flavor. Chili powder adds heat, cumin gives it an earthy undertone, and paprika adds a sweet, smoky flavor.
Greek yogurt (plain): 1/2 cup
This creamy, tangy addition gives the casserole a smooth texture and a boost of protein. It also helps balance out the spice and adds richness.
Cilantro (optional): A handful (for garnish)
Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herby freshness and a touch of brightness to finish off the casserole, enhancing its flavors. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out.
Steps to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole
Here’s how you can make a delicious and hearty Chicken Burrito Casserole with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful dish packed with protein and low in carbs. From prepping the veggies to adding a melty cheese topping, each step ensures your casserole turns out perfectly every time. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a casserole dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish, making cleanup easier. Set the prepared dish aside, ready for the chicken and veggie mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onions become translucent. This step creates a flavorful base for your casserole, releasing the natural sweetness of the veggies and the aromatic essence of the garlic.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken and Rice
Once the veggies are softened, add the shredded chicken and cauliflower rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir everything together to combine well. Let the mixture cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cauliflower rice to heat through and absorb the flavors from the onions, peppers, and garlic. This step ensures that the rice is fully cooked and the chicken is well-incorporated with the veggies.
Step 4: Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Now, stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and tomato paste. Mix everything thoroughly to coat the chicken, cauliflower rice, and veggies evenly with the spices. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as the spices need time to “bloom,” meaning they release their full flavor when given the opportunity to cook briefly. The tomato paste also adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor to the mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Once the chicken and veggie mixture is well-cooked and seasoned, transfer it into your prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula or spoon to spread the mixture out evenly across the dish. Afterward, top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, gooey top that holds everything together.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. The casserole will develop a nice golden-brown crust on top, indicating it’s perfectly baked. Keep an eye on it to make sure the cheese doesn’t overcook.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This gives the casserole time to set, making it easier to serve. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. For added creaminess, you can also top each serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt. Serve the casserole warm and enjoy!
This method ensures the casserole is bursting with flavors and textures while maintaining the low-carb, high-protein goals of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of guacamole: The creamy richness of guacamole complements the casserole perfectly.
- Top with salsa: Fresh tomato salsa adds a vibrant, tangy flavor that enhances the dish.
- Pair with a simple salad: A fresh, crunchy side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado would make this meal even more filling.
- Serve in lettuce wraps: For an even lower-carb option, serve portions of the casserole in large lettuce leaves for a refreshing, crisp bite.
Can We Make Chicken Burrito Casserole in Advance?
Yes! This Chicken Burrito Casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. After preparing the casserole, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great meal prep option!
Tips and Tricks
- Use rotisserie chicken: To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and makes prep much quicker.
- Make it spicier: If you like heat, add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Swap for ground chicken: For a different texture, you can substitute the shredded chicken with ground chicken for a more traditional casserole feel.
Variations of Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use beans (black beans or pinto beans) as the protein source.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and Greek yogurt alternatives to keep it dairy-free while still creamy.
- Low-Carb Tortilla: You can layer low-carb tortillas at the bottom of the casserole dish for an extra burrito-like effect.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to retain moisture.
Can We Reheat Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Yes, you can reheat this casserole in the microwave or in the oven. To prevent it from drying out, cover the casserole with foil if reheating in the oven. It should only take about 15-20 minutes to reheat at 350°F (175°C).
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole with a different protein?
A: Yes! You can use ground turkey, beef, or even pork for a different flavor.
Q: Can I use regular rice instead of cauliflower rice?
A: You can, but it will increase the carb count. If you’re following a low-carb diet, cauliflower rice is the better option.
Q: Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or even corn for extra flavor and nutrients.
Conclusion
This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a versatile, delicious, and healthy dinner option that is sure to please the whole family. With its high protein, low-carb ingredients and customizable options, it’s a great meal to add to your dinner rotation. Enjoy this tasty casserole tonight!
