Description
This Southwest Chicken and Rice Casserole is a flavorful, comforting one-dish meal combining tender shredded chicken, seasoned rice, black beans, corn, and a zesty mix of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Topped with melted cheese, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 (5.7 oz) Packages of Knorr Taco Rice
- 3 cups Cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 15 oz Can of Del Monte Southwest Corn, drained
- 15 oz Can of Black Beans, rinsed and drained
- 10 oz Can of Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
- 2 cups Shredded Cheese (1 cup sharp cheddar, 1 cup pepper jack)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, mix together the uncooked taco rice packets, shredded chicken, black beans, drained southwest corn, Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), and chicken broth. Ensure everything is evenly combined.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This allows the rice to cook through and absorb the flavors.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the foil, evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese (a blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack) over the casserole, then bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese has completely melted and is bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time helps the casserole set for easier serving. Top with your favorite garnishes such as fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or sour cream if desired, then serve.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions or the entire casserole (minus cheese topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the casserole seems dry or thickened.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce before baking.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or substitute with cooked shredded chicken breast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg