Fiesta in a Dish: Salsa Chicken Casserole for the Win!
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good casserole? They’re easy, comforting, and perfect for feeding a crowd. But this Salsa Chicken Casserole takes things to a whole new level! It’s a fiesta in a dish, packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite.
We’re all about chicken and rice casseroles, but this Mexican-inspired version is definitely a winner. It’s got all the classic ingredients you love – tender chicken, fluffy rice, black beans, and corn – all bathed in a vibrant salsa and topped with melty cheddar cheese.
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It doesn’t require a ton of prep work, and you can even assemble it ahead of time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Use leftover rotisserie chicken, whip up some poached chicken, or grill some chicken breasts – it all works beautifully.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. We start with a flavorful base using Zatarain’s Spanish Rice Mix, adding some chopped onion and veggies for extra texture. Then, it’s all about layering – chicken, salsa, cheese – and letting the oven do its magic.
Once it’s golden brown and bubbly, it’s time for the fun part – toppings! Dollop on some sour cream, add a kick with fresh jalapenos, or keep it cool with chopped cilantro and tomatoes. Every bite is a flavor explosion!
This casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a refreshing Cucumber Avocado Salad and crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Leftovers? No problem! This dish reheats beautifully and even freezes well for those nights you need a quick and easy dinner.
So ditch the takeout menus and whip up this Salsa Chicken Casserole instead. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Your family will be raving about it in no time!
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Salsa Chicken
They’re easy, comforting, and perfect for feeding a crowd. But this Salsa Chicken Casserole takes things to a whole new level! It’s a fiesta in a dish, packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 ¼ cups water
- 1 box Zatarain’s® Spanish Rice
- 1 ½ cups salsa (medium or adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed & drained
- ⅔ cup frozen corn
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- (Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, corn chips)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a casserole dish.
- Sauté onion, pepper, and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add water, rice, and ½ cup salsa. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 20 minutes.
- Stir in beans and corn. Spread in casserole dish.
- Top with chicken, remaining salsa, and cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese melts.
- Serve with desired toppings (optional).
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Casserole
- Cuisine: Tex Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 363
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 475mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
