Dinner

Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

Name: Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; ½ cup chopped onion; 1 cup chicken broth; 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch cubes; 1 cup black beans, cooked, rinsed, and drained; 1 cup frozen corn, defrosted; 16 oz jarred salsa; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Bymia larkspur November 7, 2025November 7, 2025

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Introduction

This Mexican Chicken Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken, rice, and classic southwestern ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying.

A close-up view of a white rectangular baking dish filled with a three-layer casserole; the bottom layer is white rice, the middle layer consists of bright yellow corn and black beans mixed with some red seasoning, and the top layer is melted white cheese with slightly browned spots. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled over the cheese. In the corner of the dish, there are several thin slices of green avocado fanned out neatly. The dish is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 teaspoon minced garlic
½ cup chopped onion
1 cup chicken broth
1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup black beans, cooked, rinsed, and drained
1 cup frozen corn, defrosted
16 oz jarred salsa
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon paprika
1 cup cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: In a large 12×9 inch casserole dish, combine the uncooked rice, minced garlic, chopped onion, and chicken broth. Stir gently until mixed.
Step 3: Evenly layer the cubed chicken breasts, black beans, corn, salsa, chili powder, and paprika on top of the rice mixture. Try to keep the rice at the bottom covered so it cooks properly.
Step 4: Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a diced jalapeño or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Swap chicken breasts for cooked shredded chicken to reduce cooking time.
Use brown rice for a healthier option; increase baking time accordingly.
If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the chili powder.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A white speckled plate holds a mixed dish with a base layer of white rice scattered with yellow corn kernels and small pieces of tomato. On top, there are browned, cheesy pieces of chicken mixed with black beans that add contrast in color. Fresh green cilantro is sprinkled throughout the dish. On one side, three slices of bright green avocado fan out, adding a fresh touch to the mix. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice instead of uncooked?

It’s best to use uncooked rice in this recipe as it cooks along with the other ingredients in the casserole. Using pre-cooked rice may result in an overly soft or mushy texture.

What can I substitute for chicken if I want a vegetarian version?

You can replace the chicken with extra beans, diced bell peppers, zucchini, or plant-based meat alternatives to make this casserole vegetarian-friendly.