Craving a one-dish meal that’s bursting with flavors? This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is the answer. It brings together tender chicken, spices, and cheese in a delightful combination that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this casserole is as delicious as it is easy to prepare.
Imagine a comforting dish that combines juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vibrant peppers and spices. The creamy cheese topping melts into a golden layer that adds the perfect finishing touch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Add black beans for extra protein, or toss in some corn for sweetness. Whether you’re hosting friends or just feeding the family, this casserole is sure to impress.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Colorful Casserole
This Mexican chicken and rice casserole comes alive with a medley of vibrant ingredients. The foundation is built with tender, shredded chicken and fluffy rice, providing a satisfying base. Fresh bell peppers add a delightful crunch and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
Black beans contribute not only protein but also a creamy texture that complements the rice and chicken. The addition of corn brings a touch of sweetness, balancing the spices in the dish. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will entice your palate.
Simple Steps to Prepare
Preparing this casserole is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Start by combining the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and the colorful mix of vegetables in a large bowl. The spices, including chili powder and cumin, bring warmth and depth to the dish.
Once all the ingredients are well mixed, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Topping it off with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese creates a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes. After just under an hour, a comforting meal is ready to serve.
Perfectly Baked and Ready to Serve
The beauty of this dish is revealed when it comes out of the oven. The cheese melts to perfection, creating a golden layer that beckons to be served. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, enhancing both the flavor and presentation.
Serving this casserole in a rustic baking dish on a wooden table adds a cozy touch, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends. A side of salsa complements the dish beautifully, offering an additional layer of flavor for those who crave a little extra kick.
Customizable Options
This casserole is versatile, allowing for various adaptations based on personal preferences. For a twist, try adding jalapeños for heat or swapping the bell peppers for another favorite vegetable. You can also include additional proteins like shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary needs.
If you’re looking to enhance the dish further, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. These additions not only elevate the flavor but also contribute to a delightful texture contrast.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole not only pleases the eye but also provides a nutritious meal. With around 350 calories per serving, it packs a good balance of protein from the chicken and beans, carbohydrates from the rice and corn, and healthy fats from the cheese.
It’s perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious leftovers to enjoy throughout the week. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own, savoring every layer of flavor.
Simple and Flavorful Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole layers seasoned chicken, rice, and a blend of spices, topped with melted cheese for a creamy finish. It’s a satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor and takes minimal effort to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, diced bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
