Description
A flavorful and hearty Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole that combines shredded chicken, rice, black beans, tomatoes, corn, and melted cheeses, all baked together in a zesty enchilada sauce for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
Cheese & Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole assembly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and half of the enchilada sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.
- Layer Mixture: Spread half of the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish as the first layer.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the first layer to add creamy, melted flavor.
- Add Second Layer: Spread the remaining chicken and rice mixture on top of the cheese layer to build the casserole up.
- Pour Sauce: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top layer to infuse the dish with rich enchilada flavor.
- Top with Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheeses across the casserole. Add sliced black olives and thinly sliced green onions evenly on top for garnish and extra flavor.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
- Cool: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set and make serving easier.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top just before serving to add freshness and vibrant color.
Notes
- You can use either white or brown rice depending on your preference.
- Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves prep time.
- The olives are optional but provide a nice salty contrast.
- Use fresh, frozen, or canned corn according to availability.
- Letting the dish cool slightly helps the casserole hold together better when served.
