Cheesy Chicken Burrito Casserole with Black Beans and Corn Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve the ultimate gooey cheese pull shown in the video, avoid using pre-shredded cheese from a bag if possible.

Packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent the cheese from clumping, which also hinders it from melting into that perfectly stretchy, luxurious blanket. Grating a block of cheese yourself takes just a few extra minutes but makes a massive difference in texture.

If you want to add an extra layer of depth to your casserole, try roasting the corn kernels before adding them to the mix.

Sautéing the corn in a dry cast-iron skillet over high heat for a few minutes until they get slightly charred adds a wonderful smoky sweetness that complements the savory chicken and black beans beautifully.

Variations

• Beef and Bean Casserole: Swap the chicken breasts for lean ground beef, browning it before mixing with the beans and corn.
• Spicy Cheese Casserole: Mix some shredded Pepper Jack cheese with the Cheddar to add a spicy kick to the cheesy topping.
• Three-Bean Casserole: Omit the chicken and use a mix of black beans, pinto beans, and kidney beans for a hearty vegetarian alternative.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze the baked and cooled casserole wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.

Reheat

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes.

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It will keep beautifully for up to three to four days, making it an exceptional option for weekly meal prep. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making the leftovers taste even better the next day.

This casserole is an outstanding make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to twenty-four hours before baking.

When you are ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding about five to ten minutes to the baking time to account for the cold dish.

Serving ideas

Serve this comforting casserole hot, straight from the baking dish. To elevate the presentation, set up a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own plate.

Freshly chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream provide a beautiful contrast of temperatures and textures against the warm, cheesy bake.

For a complete feast, pair the casserole with a side of crispy tortilla chips for dipping, a fresh green salad, or some warm tortillas. The crunchy chips are perfect for scooping up the cheesy chicken, beans, and corn, adding a satisfying crunch to every single bite.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Cheesy Chicken Burrito Casserole with Black Beans and Corn

Prep 10 minCook 20 minRest 5 minTotal 35 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, drained
• 2 cups golden shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and browned on all sides. Ensure the thickest piece reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is safe to consume.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, drained black beans, and corn. Stir the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Transfer the chicken, black beans, and corn mixture into a fluted baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the golden shredded cheese uniformly over the top, covering the entire surface.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The cheese should be completely melted, golden-brown, and bubbling around the edges. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

30 g

Carbohydrates

17.5 g

Fat

14 g

Fiber

3.5 g

Sugar

1.5 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.