Chicken and Rice Casserole is a classic dish that combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and a delicious blend of seasonings, all baked together to perfection. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this meal is sure to impress.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Why This Chicken and Rice Casserole Is the Best
- Creamy and Flavorful: The rice is cooked in a creamy sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
- Tender Chicken: The chicken is cooked until tender and juicy, making each bite satisfying.
- Cheesy Topping: The casserole is topped with melted cheese, adding a rich and savory layer.
- One-Dish Meal: Everything is cooked in one dish, making it easy to prepare and clean up.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for a comforting and delicious dinner option, Chicken and Rice Casserole is the perfect choice. The combination of creamy rice, tender chicken, and melted cheese makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Notes
- White Rice: Forms the base of the casserole, absorbing flavors from the tomatillo salsa and other ingredients for a hearty, satisfying texture.
- Colby Jack and Mozzarella Cheeses: Colby Jack adds a mild, creamy flavor, while mozzarella offers a stretchy, melty quality, giving the casserole a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Refried Beans and Charred Corn: The beans add a creamy, earthy element, while the corn contributes a hint of smokiness and sweetness, enhancing the casserole’s texture and flavor profile.
- Yellow Onions and Green Chiles: Sauteed onions bring a caramelized depth, and green chiles add a subtle spice, balancing the richness of the dish.
- Tomatillo Salsa: Provides a tangy, slightly acidic flavor that brightens the casserole, complementing the richness of the cheese and rice.
- Rotisserie Chicken: Adds protein and a savory flavor, making the casserole hearty and filling.
- Scallions and Cilantro: Fresh herbs brighten the dish, adding color and a pop of freshness as a garnish.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality chicken and vegetables.
- Season Generously: Season the casserole with your favorite spices and herbs for maximum flavor.
- Cook Evenly: Ensure the chicken and rice are cooked evenly by covering the dish with foil while baking.
- Garnish Generously: Top the casserole with fresh parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Pair Chicken and Rice Casserole with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Add some steamed broccoli or green beans on the side for extra nutrition.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for an extra touch of flavor.
- With a Slice of Lemon: Add a slice of lemon for a refreshing and tangy contrast.
- With a Glass of Lemonade: Enjoy a glass of lemonade to complement the creamy casserole.
A Must Try
There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade Chicken and Rice Casserole. This dish is the perfect way to treat yourself or your loved ones to something special. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with deliciousness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Be sure to check out these other delicious dinner recipes!
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This Chicken and Rice Casserole combines creamy cheese, tangy tomatillo salsa, savory rotisserie chicken, and hearty rice. With layers of flavor from the refried beans, charred corn, and green chiles, this casserole is a comforting, well-rounded dish perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Garnished with fresh scallions and cilantro, it’s both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups white rice
- 1 ½ cup tomatillo salsa
- 1-2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups shredded Colby jack cheese divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1 cup canned refried beans
- 1 cup frozen charred corn
- 2 yellow onions diced and sauteed until golden
- 1 4.5- ounce can chopped green chiles
- finely chopped scallions and cilantro for garnish
- kosher salt and pepper for tasting
Instructions
- Set your oven to 375°F to preheat. Prepare the rice following the instructions on the package. When it's done, take it off the heat and place it in a large bowl.
- Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, along with the corn, onions, chicken, green chiles, and salsa. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then stir until everything is well combined.
- Coat a medium skillet lightly with non-stick spray, then spread the refried beans evenly on the bottom. Spoon in the mixture, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Take the baking dish out of the oven, garnish with green onions and cilantro, and serve.
Notes
- This recipe is ideal for making use of leftover rice, chicken, or any extras you have on hand!
Pin this delicious recipe on Pinterest to save and share with your foodie friends!
Chicken and Rice Casserole