Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole

Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a warm and tasty dish that brings together all your favorite flavors. It’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This casserole is full of chicken, rice, beans, and cheese, making it a hearty meal everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it is simple and quick to prepare. You can use leftover chicken and rice, making it a perfect way to use what you have. Plus, it tastes amazing and is sure to please even picky eaters. It’s a one-dish meal that makes cleanup easy too!

How to Make Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked rice
1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup salsa
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, cilantro, avocado, and additional shredded cheese

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Top the mixture with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve hot, loaded with your favorite toppings like sour cream, green onions, cilantro, and avocado.

How to Serve Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole

Serve the casserole hot right out of the oven. You can add toppings like sour cream, green onions, cilantro, and avocado for extra flavors. Every bite is sure to be delicious!

How to Store Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil and put it in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole

Use leftover chicken and rice to save time.
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Adjust the spicy ingredients (like salsa and chili powder) based on your taste preferences.

Variation (If Any)

You can use ground beef or turkey instead of chicken. If you want a vegetarian version, you can skip the meat and add more beans or vegetables. You can also use different types of cheese for different flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?
No, it’s best to use already cooked rice. Uncooked rice will not cook properly in the casserole.

2. How can I make this casserole spicier?
You can add more salsa, use spicy salsa, or include jalapeños for heat.

3. Is this casserole good for meal prep?
Yes, it is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you are ready to eat.