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Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole

Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole
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A hearty and flavorful Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole that combines tender chicken, vibrant spices, and comforting rice baked to perfection. This easy one-dish meal is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, delivering warm, cozy, and satisfying flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces

Grains and Vegetables

  • 1 cup long grain white rice (or brown rice as a variation)
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup corn (optional)
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)

Liquids

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp oil (for sautéing)

Cheese and Dairy

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend

Spices

  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced green onions
  • Diced avocado
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic to prepare the aromatics. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking throughout the casserole.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add the diced chicken and cook until just starting to brown on the outside to lock in flavor and texture.
  3. Mix Rice and Seasonings: In a mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice with diced tomatoes (including green chilies), chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well so the rice is fully coated with the vibrant seasoning.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: In a baking dish, layer the sautéed chicken and aromatics evenly. Pour the rice mixture on top, spreading it evenly. If desired, add corn and black beans for extra texture and heartiness.
  5. Bake and Add Cheese: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Let It Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to help everything set and enhance the flavors before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact.
  • Do not overcook the chicken initially; it will finish cooking in the oven and stay juicy.
  • Keep the casserole covered while baking to trap steam and cook the rice perfectly.
  • Rest the casserole before serving to let flavors intensify and set the texture.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a dollop of sour cream on top for brightness and balance.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican chicken casserole, chicken and rice, one-dish meal, easy Mexican dinner, baked rice casserole, comfort food, meal prep, Mexican spices

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/mexican-chicken-and-rice-casserole/