Description
Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that’s packed with flavor? Fiesta Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish! This hearty, cheesy, and slightly spicy casserole brings together the bold flavors of Mexican-inspired cuisine with the comforting texture of a baked dish. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel recommended)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Optional Additions & Substitutions:
- Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
- Swap black beans for pinto beans if preferred.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coat of olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, cook the rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water. This adds extra flavor!
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Shredded cooked chicken
- Cooked rice
- Black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes
- Sour cream and cream cheese
- Spices (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper)
Stir everything together until fully mixed.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheeses over the layer.
- Add the remaining casserole mixture.
- Top with the rest of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once done, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Prepare ahead by assembling the casserole in the morning and baking it later.