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Cheesy Salsa Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 86 reviews

This Cheesy Salsa Chicken and Rice Bake is a flavorful and comforting Mexican-inspired casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, cooked rice, vibrant salsa, black beans, corn, and a blend of spices, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this baked dish is easy to prepare, packed with protein and fiber, and customizable to your preferred spice level.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
  • 1.5 cups salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
  • 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
  • 1 cup black beans (canned, rinsed and drained)
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Other

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
  • Optional fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent the casserole from sticking.
  3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, salsa, corn, black beans, half of the shredded cheese, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
  4. Assemble in Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to create an even layer.
  5. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture for a cheesy crust.
  6. Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps the casserole heat through without drying out.
  7. Remove Foil and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
  8. Cool and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Adjust the salsa spice level to your taste preference, using mild, medium, or hot salsa.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient option.
  • Substitute brown rice for a whole grain, higher fiber option.
  • Black beans can be substituted with pinto or kidney beans if preferred.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Keywords: Cheesy chicken casserole, salsa chicken bake, chicken and rice bake, Mexican chicken casserole, baked chicken and rice, easy dinner, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://liamjayne.com/cheesy-salsa-chicken-and-rice-bake-recipe/