Shredded Chicken Burrito Bake

Name: Shredded Chicken Burrito Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned; 1 cup salsa; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 8 flour tortillas; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Around the World Recipes

I absolutely love this Shredded Chicken Burrito Bake! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that comes together quickly and easily. This dish has become a family favorite because it’s so comforting and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. I enjoy preparing it on weekends and serving it with a side of fresh salsa and guacamole. Every bite is packed with tender chicken, zesty spices, and cheesy goodness that draws everyone back for seconds. If you’re looking for a meal that brings joy and warmth, this is it!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:13:36.656Z

When I first experimented with this Shredded Chicken Burrito Bake, I was aiming for something that combined convenience with flavor. The key was to use perfectly seasoned shredded chicken that meshes beautifully with the creamy cheese and zesty salsa. I found that using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also infuses the dish with a rich depth of flavor.

This bake is so versatile! I love adding black beans for protein and corn for added sweetness. The crispy edges that develop during baking give it a wonderful texture that contrasts with the soft filling—an aspect that truly elevates this comforting dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A comforting fusion of flavors and textures
Easy to prepare, great for any night of the week
Customizable with your favorite toppings and ingredients

Mastering the Perfect Filling

The key to achieving the perfect filling for your Shredded Chicken Burrito Bake lies in balancing flavors and textures. The combination of shredded chicken, black beans, and corn brings both protein and sweetness, while the salsa adds acidity and moisture. Consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and heat. If you're short on time, using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut that doesn’t compromise flavor.

Don't forget to season the filling generously. The chili powder and cumin not only enhance the dish's flavor but also create a warm, earthy aroma while baking. Ensure you taste the mixture before assembling; adjustments can be made with additional salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference. This step ensures every bite remains vibrant with flavor.

Assembling Your Burrito Bake

When layering your tortillas and filling, take care to cover them evenly, as this ensures a consistent texture throughout the dish. I recommend using slightly warmed tortillas, as they are more pliable and less likely to crack when handling. If using cold tortillas, briefly microwave them for about 15-20 seconds before assembly.

It's important to cover your baking dish with foil during the initial baking period. This traps steam, allowing the ingredients to heat evenly. Removing the foil allows the cheese to become bubbly and golden, creating a delicious crust that contrasts with the moist filling beneath. Keep an eye on it—the cheese should be melted and lightly browned, typically after about 10 minutes without the foil.

Ingredients

For the Shredded Chicken Burrito Bake

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
1 cup salsa
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
8 flour tortillas
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined.

Assemble the Burrito Bake

Lay out 4 tortillas in a lightly greased baking dish. Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese. Top with the remaining tortillas and the rest of the chicken mixture. Finish by sprinkling the top with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve hot with additional salsa and sour cream.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add jalapeños to the filling or serve with hot sauce on the side. You can customize this recipe by using turkey or beef instead of chicken, and feel free to add more veggies like diced bell peppers or onions for added flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Shredded Chicken Burrito Bake is great for prep-ahead meals. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time; it may need an extra 5-10 minutes to heat through completely from cold. Alternatively, you can freeze individual portions for a quick meal later.

When storing leftovers, allow the bake to cool completely first. Place it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should last up to three days. To reheat, either warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes until heated through. Just be aware that the tortillas may become slightly softer upon reheating.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this recipe by swapping out ingredients based on your dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with additional beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. If you're a fan of spicy food, consider adding diced green chiles or a layer of hot pepper cheese on top before baking.

For an added burst of freshness, serve your Shredded Chicken Burrito Bake with sides like avocado, guacamole, or a tangy lime crema. I love garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for both flavor and visual appeal. With so many options, you can easily make this dish unique every time you prepare it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shredded chicken?

Yes, frozen shredded chicken works well! Just make sure to thaw it completely before using.

→ What can I substitute for the tortillas?

You can use corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze the burrito bake?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled burrito bake before baking. Cover it well with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.