Looking for a dish that brings bold flavors and comfort to the table? This Cheesy Southwest Chicken Casserole is a perfect choice! It’s packed with succulent chicken, spicy peppers, and lots of cheese, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
This recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s the ideal dish for feeding a crowd or enjoying meal prep for the week ahead. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings and ingredients!
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A Flavor-Packed Southwest Chicken Casserole
This casserole offers a delightful mix of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables. The bubbling cheese adds a creamy richness that ties all the flavors together. Each bite delivers a nice kick, perfect for those who appreciate bold tastes.
Colorful Ingredients Come Together
With shredded chicken, black beans, and sweet corn, this dish is not only nutritious but visually appealing.
Diced peppers contribute a pop of color and additional layers of flavor.
The combination of ingredients makes each serving a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Easy Preparation for Busy Nights
This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have everything mixed and ready to go into the oven.
Once it’s baking, you can relax while it transforms into a comforting meal.
Customizable to Your Taste
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility.
Feel free to swap ingredients based on personal preferences or what you have on hand.
Adding favorite toppings or spices can create a unique twist every time you make it.
A Perfect Dish for Sharing
Garnishing for a Touch of Freshness
Top your casserole with chopped cilantro before serving for a refreshing finish.
This not only adds color but enhances the overall flavor profile.
A simple garnish can elevate a dish and make it look even more appetizing.
A Flavor-Packed Southwest Chicken Casserole
This casserole is a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheese, baked to golden perfection. The blend of spices gives it a nice kick, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack mix recommended)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, 1 cup of cheese, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
Looking for dinner inspiration? Check out these 10 delicious chicken casserole recipes and find your new family favorite!