Description
This Southwest Chicken and Rice Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish combining seasoned rice, shredded chicken, southwestern vegetables, and melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this casserole blends the zest of Southwest ingredients with the convenience of using rotisserie chicken and canned goods for a quick, delicious dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Base 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
Topping
- 2 cups Shredded Cheese (half sharp cheddar, half pepper jack)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. This will ensure the casserole cooks evenly once assembled. Also, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix the Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked Knorr Taco Rice packets, shredded chicken, rinsed black beans, drained southwest corn, Rotel tomatoes, and low sodium chicken broth. Stir everything together gently to distribute the ingredients evenly within the dish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. This will allow the rice to cook thoroughly and absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: After 40 minutes, remove the foil and evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and starts to bubble.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to cut and serve. Optionally, top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain and rinse canned beans well to reduce sodium content and improve flavor.
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time but you can substitute with any cooked shredded chicken.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add extra diced green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Cheese choice can be varied to your preference; a Mexican blend works great as well.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set and makes it easier to portion.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
