Name: Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole: 7 Comforting Steps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (10-ounce) can red enchilada sauce; 4 cups cooked white rice (about 2 cups uncooked rice); 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided; 1/2 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish; to taste Salt and black pepper

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Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that has transformed my weeknight dinners. This dish combines tender chicken, zesty enchilada flavors, and fluffy rice, all baked together to create a delightful experience. Perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings, this casserole offers a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone. In just 50 minutes, you can bring the warmth of Mexican cuisine to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole. First, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. Second, it’s packed with flavors from the zesty enchilada sauce and melting cheese. Third, it’s easily customizable; you can add vegetables or spice it up for a kick. Fourth, this dish is family-friendly and perfect for kids. Fifth, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Finally, it offers a comforting taste of Mexican cuisine that brings warmth to any dinner table. You’ll also appreciate how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10-ounce) can red enchilada sauce
4 cups cooked white rice (about 2 cups uncooked rice)
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1/2 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
to taste Salt and black pepper

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, rinsed and drained black beans, red enchilada sauce, and cooked white rice. Add half of the Monterey Jack cheese and half of the Colby Jack cheese. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro.
Step 3: Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to your preference. Gently stir until well combined and evenly distributed.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese and Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown.
Step 7: Let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.

Irresistible Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole fresh from the oven in a baking dish

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe, saving you time on cooking and shredding.
You can adjust the cheese according to your taste; feel free to mix in your favorite kinds.
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked when needed, making it perfect for meal prep.
For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or other spicy ingredients to the mix.
Ensure to let the casserole rest after baking to allow flavors to meld and the dish to set.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

This Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with some fantastic serving ideas:

Serve it with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for a perfect balance of flavors.
Top it with fresh avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Pair it with a simple green salad to add freshness to your meal.

Delicious Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole served with toppings

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

To store, cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This makes for a quick Chicken Enchilada Rice Meal that is perfect for busy days!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together. Using rotisserie chicken can save time, and letting it rest after baking enhances the flavor profile. A cheesy topping adds that delightful texture everyone loves!

Can I make Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Assemble it and cover it tightly before refrigerating. Bake it when you’re ready to serve; just extend the cooking time by a few minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole?

To avoid mistakes, ensure that your rice is fully cooked before combining it with other ingredients. Also, don’t skip the resting time after baking; this helps everything set and makes for easier serving. Adjust seasonings to taste for the best flavor!

Variations of Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

For a healthier twist, use brown rice and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Try a spicy version by adding diced jalapeños or using spicy enchilada sauce.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with more beans or sautéed mushrooms.
Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack or cheddar, for varying flavors.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or explore Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup for a different take on these flavors. If you’re looking for a quick meal, our Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is perfect for busy nights!