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Southwest Chicken Casserole That’s Perfect for Family Dinner - Easy, Flavor-Packed Comfort Food

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown; day-old rice is ideal)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel), drained
  • 1 cup salsa (mild or medium)
  • 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced avocado, lime wedges, jalapeño slices

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Sauté the veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper with a pinch of salt. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened.
  • Add seasonings: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a few grinds of pepper. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Build the base: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and drained tomatoes with chiles. Add the sautéed veggies and stir gently.
  • Make it creamy: In a separate bowl, whisk together salsa and sour cream. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Pour over the rice-chicken mixture and toss to coat evenly.
  • Assemble: Spread half the mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle with half the Monterey Jack and cheddar. Add the remaining mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.
  • Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
  • Rest and finish: Let it rest 5–10 minutes to set. Top with cilantro, green onions, and any other favorite toppings. Serve with lime wedges for a bright finish.