Description
A comforting and colorful Tex-Mex inspired casserole made with tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, seasoned rice, salsa, and melty cheese, all baked together in one easy dish.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or Mexican rice)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
1/2 cup salsa
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Sour cream or guacamole, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced bell peppers and onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Stir well to coat evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, cooked rice, black beans (if using), salsa, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream or guacamole if desired.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Substitute cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Add corn, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for added spice.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
