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Southwest Chicken Casserole

Savory Southwest Chicken Casserole for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Enjoy a healthy Southwest Chicken Casserole, packed with flavors, protein, and easy to prepare, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice This rice absorbs flavors while cooking.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Opt for low-sodium to keep it healthier.
Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic Use garlic powder as an alternative.
  • 0.5 cup chopped onion Can swap with onion powder if fresh isn’t available.
  • 0.5 teaspoon chili powder Adds a spicy kick.
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika Enhances color and flavor.
  • 16 oz jarred salsa The star ingredient adding moisture.
Protein
  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes Cooked chicken can be used for convenience.
  • 1 cup black beans, cooked, rinsed & drained Can substitute with pinto or kidney beans.
Extra Goodness
  • 1 cup frozen corn, defrosted Omit if you prefer.
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese Consider Monterey jack or dairy-free option.

Equipment

  • Casserole Dish
  • Oven

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and prepare the large casserole dish.
  2. In a large 12x9 casserole dish, mix together rice, garlic, and onion. Pour in chicken broth and stir until fully combined.
  3. Layer cubed chicken breasts over the rice mixture, followed by the black beans and optional corn. Pour salsa over the top, then sprinkle with chili powder and paprika.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  5. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle cheese over the top. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Once the cheese is melted and lightly browned, remove from the oven and cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1casserole servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Freeze for up to 3 months, tightly wrapped.

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