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Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole

Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole
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★★★★★

4.7 from 10 reviews

This Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole is a quick and flavorful one-dish meal combining tender shredded chicken, spicy Ro-Tel tomatoes, and melted cheese baked over fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a delicious blend of Mexican-inspired flavors with minimal prep and cooking time.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or cut into small pieces
  • 1 can Ro-Tel (10 ounce can)
  • 1/2 cup white rice, uncooked
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or chives, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease the bottom of a 6” x 8” casserole dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Add rice and broth: Pour the uncooked white rice and chicken broth into the casserole dish. If your broth is unsalted, season with salt to your preference.
  3. Combine chicken and Ro-Tel: In a medium bowl, mix the cooked shredded chicken with the entire can of Ro-Tel tomatoes (including the juice). If desired, stir in the taco seasoning at this stage for extra flavor.
  4. Layer the chicken mixture: Pour the chicken and Ro-Tel mixture evenly over the rice in the dish, spreading it out to cover.
  5. Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  6. Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Rest and garnish: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or chives, if desired.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a milder flavor.
  • Use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option, but increase baking time accordingly.
  • Adding taco seasoning enhances flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
  • If you prefer a spicier casserole, use a spicy Ro-Tel variety or add jalapeño peppers.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican chicken casserole, chicken rice bake, easy dinner casserole, Ro-Tel chicken recipe, cheesy chicken casserole

Find it online: https://cookedbycleo.com/mexican-chicken-rice-casserole/