Description
This Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole is a delicious and hearty one-dish meal combining tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, black beans, corn, and zesty enchilada sauce, baked to perfection with melted cheeses and fresh toppings. It's a quick and flavorful casserole perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein and Grains
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Sauces and Cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Toppings and Garnishes
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cooked rice, drained black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn kernels, and half of the enchilada sauce until evenly combined.
- Layer Mixture: Spread half of the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the first layer.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the first layer of the mixture.
- Add Second Layer: Add the remaining chicken and rice mixture on top of the cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Sauce: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top layer of the mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Final Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese, sliced black olives (if using), and thinly sliced green onions on top of the casserole for added flavor and garnish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes to set and make serving easier.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the baked casserole just before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor, but leftover cooked chicken or freshly shredded chicken works well too.
- White or brown rice can be used depending on your preference; ensure rice is fully cooked before combining.
- The black olives are optional and can be omitted or substituted with jalapeños for extra heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
- For a spicier casserole, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
