If you're a fan of enchiladas and casseroles, you're in for a treat with this Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole! This dish is packed with rich, Mexican-inspired flavors and is incredibly easy to make. It's perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week. Let's get started!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup of uncooked rice
- 2 cups of enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of corn kernels, drained
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Cook 1 cup of rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you don't have pre-cooked chicken, you can quickly cook some chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Shred the chicken using two forks.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In the same skillet, add the cooked rice, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce. Stir everything until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Add Toppings
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Add your favorite toppings like sliced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños.
Tips for Enhancing the Dish
- Homemade Enchilada Sauce: If you have some extra time, consider making your enchilada sauce from scratch. It adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
- Extra Vegetables: For a healthier twist, add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
- Spicy Kick: If you like it spicy, add some extra chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions and Storing Leftovers
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole with a side of fresh salad and tortilla chips. It's also great as a filling for burritos or tacos.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Closing Note
We hope you enjoy making and devouring this Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole as much as we do! Don't forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you add to the dish. Happy cooking!
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