Mexican Chicken Casserole with Rice is a hearty and comforting dish that draws its inspiration from the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. It combines tender chunks of chicken, fluffy rice, and the zesty punch of jarred salsa, all smothered in melty cheese. This casserole is a delicious twist on traditional Mexican recipes and is perfect for anyone looking to bring the essence of Mexican dining to their kitchen. Casseroles have a homey, welcoming feel and are often a go-to for family dinners or communal gatherings. With its layers of savory ingredients, this Mexican Chicken Casserole with Rice is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

When serving Mexican Chicken Casserole with Rice, the rich and robust flavors within can be enhanced with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad tossed in a lime vinaigrette to add a crisp, tangy contrast to the meal. Alternatively, serving it alongside warm tortillas or a scoop of guacamole can make for a more indulgent experience. For a truly festive meal, add refried beans or a fresh corn salsa to your table. Keep in mind that this flavorful casserole can stand proudly as a centerpiece on its own, satisfying your diners with its depth of flavor and hearty ingredients.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups of cooked rice (See note if you want to use uncooked rice)
- 2 cups of shredded, cooked chicken
- 1 jar of your favorite salsa (16 ounces)
- 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
- 1 can of black beans (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
- 2 cups of shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup of sour cream (for serving, optional)

Note: You can also use 1 cup of uncooked rice with 1 cup of chicken broth, but increase the cook time to 45 minutes. Make sure you lay the raw rice at bottom of casserole.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.

2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, shredded chicken, salsa, corn, and black beans. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Spoon half of the rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheese over the mixture.

4. Add the remaining rice mixture on top of the cheese layer and then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.

6. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown on top.

7. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and offer sour cream on the side for those who like a creamy addition to their dish.

Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make Mexican Chicken Casserole with Rice as a delicious weeknight dinner or as a comforting dish to share with friends and family on any occasion.

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