Description
This Mexican Chicken Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish combining tender chicken, rice, black beans, corn, and a zesty salsa, all baked together and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal with a delicious blend of spices and vibrant ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
Vegetables and Legumes
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 cup black beans, cooked, rinsed & drained
- 1 cup frozen corn, defrosted
Seasonings and Toppings
- 16 oz jarred salsa
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare rice mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, minced garlic, chopped onion, chicken broth, black beans, frozen corn, salsa, chili powder, and paprika. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Add chicken: Stir in the cubed chicken breasts into the rice mixture, making sure they are well coated with the seasonings and salsa.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add cheese topping: Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, and return to the oven uncovered.
- Final bake: Bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor.
- For spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy salsa.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- This casserole can be adapted by adding chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra veggies and heat.
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts to reduce cooking time.
Keywords: Mexican chicken casserole, baked chicken casserole, chicken and rice casserole, healthy chicken casserole, one dish meal