Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that combines the flavors of enchiladas with the comforting texture of a rice casserole. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, easy to prepare, and can serve a crowd. This recipe is also flexible, allowing you to use cooked chicken and pantry staples, making it a great choice for busy days.

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How to Make Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired, before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

Serve Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or tortilla chips. You can also offer sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side for extra flavor.

How to Store Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding.
• Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or jalapeños if you like it hot.

Variation

You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using more beans or vegetables. You can also swap the chicken for cooked ground turkey or beef for a different flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice. Just be sure to cook it fully before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I freeze Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

3. What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?
If you don’t have enchilada sauce, you can use taco sauce or homemade tomato sauce mixed with spices.

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