How to Make Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice Casserole - A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're looking for a comforting and flavorful dinner idea, look no further than this Cheesy Southwest Chicken and Rice Casserole. This hearty dish is packed with tender chicken, savory rice, and a cheesy, spicy kick that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner party, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple and easy it is to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can...

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Ingredients

  • 2 (7 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
  • ¼ cup olive oil, divided
  • salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 ½ cups water
  • 1 (10 ounce) bag yellow rice
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, shredded
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 1 hr 5 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 1 9x13-inch casserole

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  • Place chicken in a small baking dish and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, turning to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 20 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Cut into strips or cubes when cool enough to handle. Leave the oven on.
  • While the chicken bakes, bring water and 2 tablespoons olive oil to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in rice. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes. Fluff lightly with fork.
  • While the rice cooks, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute onion, bell pepper, carrots, and garlic until tender, about 10 minutes.
  • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Place rice, vegetable mixture, chicken, 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, beans, and tomatoes in a large bowl and stir until well combined. Spoon into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Cover with aluminum foil.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 10 minutes longer.
  • Nutrition

    409 cal.

    • Total Fat: 17g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
    • Cholesterol: 53mg
    • Sodium: 991mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 41g
    • Dietary Fiber: 5g
    • Total Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 24g
    • Vitamin C: 25mg
    • Calcium: 255mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 413mg