Craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor? This cheesy BBQ chicken casserole is the answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender chicken with a delicious barbecue sauce and creamy cheese, creating a mouthwatering meal that your family will love.
This recipe is not just a casserole; it’s a celebration of flavors. The smoky notes from the BBQ sauce blend beautifully with the richness of melted cheese and the heartiness of chicken, making it ideal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredient Harmony
This casserole is built on a foundation of flavor, showcasing a delightful combination of ingredients. The core component is tender, shredded chicken, which serves as a protein-rich base.
Adding zesty BBQ sauce infuses the dish with a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of melted cheddar cheese. Every bite is enriched with the interactions between these key elements, creating a cohesive flavor profile.
The inclusion of black beans and corn adds texture and nutritional value, making this casserole not only delicious but also satisfying.
Preparation Made Simple
Getting this dish ready is a breeze, making it perfect for busy evenings. Start by preheating your oven, as a warm environment is essential for that bubbling cheese crust.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, cooked rice or quinoa, black beans, and corn. The garlic and onion powders provide a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the overall experience.
Mixing these ingredients creates a hearty filling that is both comforting and enjoyable. Once combined, transfer this mixture into a greased casserole dish and generously layer it with cheese on top.
Baking to Perfection
Once assembled, the casserole goes into the oven where the magic happens. Baking it at 350°F allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
As it cooks, the cheese melts and creates a golden, bubbly crust that transforms the dish into a visually appealing centerpiece. The aroma wafting from the oven will surely heighten your anticipation.
After about 25-30 minutes, the casserole is ready. It’s important to let it cool for a few moments before serving, ensuring that the flavors settle and the dish is at a perfect serving temperature.
Garnishing and Serving Suggestions
Once your casserole emerges from the oven, a sprinkle of chopped green onions adds a fresh touch. This garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a delightful crunch and mild onion flavor that complements the rich ingredients.
For a complete meal, consider serving this dish alongside a fresh green salad. The crispness of the salad balances the warm, cheesy casserole, providing a refreshing contrast.
Using a wooden spoon to serve the casserole adds a rustic charm to your presentation, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy a comforting meal.
Nutritional Insights
This cheesy BBQ chicken casserole isn’t just about flavor; it offers a well-rounded nutritional profile as well. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet reasonable choice for dinner.
The dish provides a healthy dose of protein, with about 25 grams per serving, alongside carbohydrates and fats that contribute to its heartiness.
With its blend of protein from chicken and black beans, along with the wholesome addition of corn and rice or quinoa, this casserole can fit nicely into a balanced diet.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This casserole shines in various settings, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Its effortless preparation and ability to satisfy a crowd make it a reliable choice.
Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family night, this dish is bound to be a hit. Its comforting flavors remind us of home-cooked meals that bring everyone together.
Consider making this casserole in advance; it holds up well, allowing you to reheat it for an easy meal later in the week. With its delightful taste and comforting nature, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
This BBQ chicken casserole is a delightful blend of shredded chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s a satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor and will surely become a staple in your household.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, cooked rice, black beans, corn, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly in a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
