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Overhead view of a delicious, bubbly Mexican Chicken Cheese Rice Casserole, ready to be served.

Irresistible Mexican Chicken Cheese Rice Casserole

This Mexican Chicken Cheese Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. It's easily customizable, great for meal prep, and family-friendly, combining tender chicken, rice, zesty Mexican spices, and gooey cheese for an irresistible meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 375
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or canned drained
  • 1 cup black beans, canned rinsed and drained
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • Olive oil for sautéing
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, avocado, salsa, extra sour cream, crushed tortilla chips

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large skillet
  • Large bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, corn, black beans, Rotel, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
  4. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top of the casserole.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  7. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, avocado, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

Don't overcook the rice. Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Spice it up with cayenne pepper or hot sauce, or tone it down with a mild taco seasoning or less Rotel. Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Assemble ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Freeze for up to 3 months.