Description
Looking for a bold, satisfying, and family-approved dinner idea? This Cheesy Chicken & Mexican Rice Casserole is your perfect weeknight solution. Loaded with shredded chicken, creamy melted cheese, zesty salsa, and hearty rice, this easy recipe comes together in one baking dish. It’s a delicious fusion of comfort food and Mexican-inspired flavors—ideal for busy nights or meal prep. Whether you’re into easy dinner ideas, need a quick meal, or love discovering new food ideas, this casserole checks every box. Bonus: it’s freezer-friendly, customizable, and made with simple pantry staples!
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
2 cups cooked Mexican-style rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, corn, salsa, sour cream, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly on top.
5. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
7. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking.
8. Garnish with diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, sour cream, and cilantro.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
10. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
Let the casserole rest before serving so the layers can set and hold together better.
To make it spicier, swap in medium or hot salsa, or add chopped jalapeños to the mix.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy, protein-rich alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of dish
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 720
- Fat: 23
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 11
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 28
- Cholesterol: 75