Zesty Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Comfort flows through this hearty chicken enchilada rice casserole that promises a delightful meal for anyone seeking a satisfying dinner.

Layers of melted cheese and tender chicken create a mouthwatering experience that brings zest to your table.

Mexican-inspired flavors dance across each spoonful, blending creamy textures with bold spices.

Weeknight meals demand something special, and this dish delivers without complicated preparation.

Savory ingredients combine effortlessly, making the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Weekends or busy evenings call for simple yet delicious solutions that everyone will appreciate.

You can craft this delectable casserole in less than an hour, turning ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary feast.

Why Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs Are A Sweet And Savory Combo

• Satisfy Hunger Quickly: A complete meal packed with protein, veggies, and rice that fills you up without complicated preparation steps.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like chicken for beef, turkey, or make it vegetarian by adding more beans and using plant-based cheese.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes to clean up, combining multiple ingredients into a single delicious casserole that saves kitchen cleanup time.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kid-approved meal with familiar ingredients like cheese, chicken, and beans that appeal to both adults and children, making mealtime stress-free.

What You’ll Need For Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

• White Rice: A fluffy foundation that provides structure and absorbs the flavors of the casserole.

• Shredded Chicken: A tender and seasoned protein that serves as the main filling of the dish.
• Black Beans: A protein-rich ingredient that adds texture and depth to the casserole.
• Corn Kernels: A sweet and colorful vegetable that brings freshness and additional texture.

• Taco Seasoning: A zesty blend that infuses the chicken with bold, southwestern flavors.
• Enchilada Sauce: A rich, tangy sauce that adds moisture and traditional Mexican taste.
• Sour Cream: A creamy ingredient that softens the sauce and adds a slight tanginess.

• Onions, Garlic: Foundational ingredients that provide a savory and aromatic base for the dish.

• Cheddar Cheese: A melty, sharp cheese that creates a golden, gooey topping.

• Cilantro: A fresh herb that adds brightness and a classic Mexican garnish.
• Olive Oil: A cooking oil used for sautéing and preparing the baking dish.

How To Make Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole Step By Step

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Dish

Crank up the oven to a toasty 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a quick olive oil spray.

Step 2: Cook Fluffy Rice

Whip up white rice following package directions, aiming for a slightly undercooked texture that’ll stay perfect during baking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatic Base

Fire up a large skillet with olive oil and dance those diced onions and minced garlic around until they turn translucent and release their magical aroma.

Step 4: Spice Up the Chicken

Toss shredded chicken into the skillet and shower it with taco seasoning, making sure every morsel gets a flavor-packed coating.

Step 5: Build Hearty Filling

• Black beans
• Corn kernels

Mix thoroughly to create a protein-packed and colorful filling.

Step 6: Create Creamy Sauce

Grab a bowl and whisk enchilada sauce with sour cream until you’ve got a silky-smooth blend that’ll make taste buds dance.

Step 7: Create First Rice Layer

Spread half the prepared rice across the bottom of the baking dish, forming a solid foundation for your casserole adventure.

Step 8: Add Chicken Layer

Distribute the chicken, bean, and corn mixture evenly over the rice, ensuring every bite will be packed with goodness.

Step 9: Pour Creamy Sauce

Drench the chicken layer with the enchilada and sour cream sauce, letting it seep into every nook and cranny.

Step 10: Cheese It Up

Shower the top with a generous blanket of shredded cheddar cheese, covering the entire surface.

Step 11: Sprinkle Fresh Herb

Scatter chopped cilantro across the top for a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color.

Step 12: Bake to Perfection

Pop the casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese transforms into a melted, bubbly, golden masterpiece.

Step 13: Let It Rest

Pull the casserole out and let it chill for 5-10 minutes, allowing flavors to mingle and the dish to set up beautifully.

Step 14: Serve and Enjoy

Dish out the hot casserole, with an optional extra sprinkle of cilantro for those who can’t get enough of that fresh herb magic.

Tips To Nail Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole Every Time

• Boost Rice Absorption: Rinse rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring each grain remains separate and fluffy in the casserole.
• Prevent Dry Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or freshly shredded chicken breast to maintain moisture and enhance overall texture of the dish.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust taco seasoning intensity by mixing mild and hot varieties or adding extra chili powder for bolder flavor profiles.
• Enhance Protein Variety: Swap black beans with kidney beans or add quinoa for alternative protein sources that complement the chicken perfectly.
• Make It Lighter: Substitute full-fat sour cream with Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese to create a healthier version without sacrificing taste.

Tasty Variations For Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

• Vegetarian Enchilada Rice Casserole: Replace chicken with plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or black beans for a meat-free version packed with flavor and nutrition.
• Quinoa Power Swap: Substitute white rice with quinoa to boost protein content and create a gluten-free alternative that adds nutty undertones to the casserole.
• Spicy Green Chile Edition: Incorporate diced green chiles and swap regular enchilada sauce with green chile sauce for a tangy, southwestern-inspired variation that brings extra heat.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Use riced cauliflower instead of traditional rice to reduce carbohydrates and create a lighter, vegetable-forward casserole for health-conscious eaters.

What To Pair With Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

• Elevate Taco Chicken Rice Casserole Pairings
• Craft a Margarita Fiesta: Blend fresh lime juice, tequila, and triple sec for a zesty cocktail that complements the casserole's spicy Mexican-inspired flavors.
• Pop Open a Mexican Lager: Crack a crisp Corona or Modelo Especial to cut through the richness of the cheesy, creamy casserole and refresh your palate.
• Add Fresh Salsa Sides: Prepare a quick pico de gallo or chunky salsa verde to bring bright, tangy notes that contrast the casserole's creamy texture.
• Cool Down with Creamy Guacamole: Whip up a smooth avocado dip with lime and cilantro to provide a cool, creamy counterpoint to the warm, spicy casserole.

How To Store Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole The Right Way

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing it flat in the freezer for up to 3 months to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
• Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F covered with foil for 20-25 minutes, removing the foil in the last 5 minutes to restore cheese's crispy top.

FAQs About Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

• Is this dish spicy?

The taco seasoning provides a mild to moderate heat level. You can adjust the spiciness by choosing a mild or hot taco seasoning blend or adding extra chili powder.

• Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or even shredded pork work great as alternatives to chicken in this casserole recipe.

• Do I need any special equipment to make this?

No special equipment is needed. A large skillet, 9×13-inch baking dish, and basic kitchen tools like a whisk and measuring cups are sufficient.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutritional value.

Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Mexican-inspired comfort meets convenience in this mouthwatering Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole, blending zesty spices with creamy textures. Hearty layers of seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 2 lbs chicken breasts, shredded
• 1/2 cup black beans

Grains and Base:

• 3 cups white rice
• 1 cup corn kernels

Sauce and Seasonings:

• 2 cups enchilada sauce
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced

Extras:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of olive oil.
2. Cook white rice according to package instructions, ensuring it’s fluffy and slightly undercooked to prevent mushiness during baking.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant.
4. Add shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring in taco seasoning to coat evenly and infuse deep, zesty flavors.
5. Incorporate black beans and corn kernels into the chicken mixture, creating a vibrant and protein-packed filling.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together enchilada sauce and sour cream until smooth and well-combined.
7. Layer the bottom of the baking dish with half of the prepared rice, creating a sturdy foundation for the casserole.
8. Spread the chicken, bean, and corn mixture evenly over the rice layer, ensuring uniform distribution.
9. Pour the enchilada sauce and sour cream blend over the chicken layer, allowing it to seep into all the ingredients.
10. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top, covering the entire surface.
11. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh, aromatic touch.
12. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
13. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and casserole to set.
14. Serve hot, with optional additional cilantro for garnish.

Notes

• Avoid overcooking rice to maintain a perfect fluffy texture that doesn’t turn mushy during baking.
• Customize protein options by substituting shredded chicken with ground turkey, beef, or plant-based alternatives for diverse dietary needs.
• Use low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt as healthier substitutes to reduce overall calorie content without compromising flavor intensity.
• Enhance meal prep by preparing components in advance and assembling just before baking, making it convenient for busy weeknight dinners.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg