01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 yellow onion, diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
02 -
Pour in 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Stir in 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld for your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe.
03 -
To the skillet with the sauce, add 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded, 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice, 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (rinsed and drained), and 1 cup frozen corn. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. This hearty base is key to a delicious Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe.
04 -
Gently fold in 6 (6-inch) corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch strips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This helps create a hearty texture for your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe. Transfer the entire mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish.
05 -
Spread the chicken and rice mixture evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese generously over the top. Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning of the cheese during the initial bake.
06 -
Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. This ensures a perfectly cooked Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe.
07 -
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped. Serve warm with 1/2 cup light sour cream and 1 lime, cut into wedges, on the side for a fresh finish.