Easy Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole (35 Minutes) Recipe
A quick and flavorful Easy Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole combining shredded chicken, rice, beans, corn, and enchilada sauce baked to cheesy perfection. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner ready in just 35 minutes.
- Author: Jeannette
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein and Base
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Sauces and Cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Garnishes and Extras
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and half of the enchilada sauce. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Layer First Half: Spread half of the chicken and rice mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish to form the bottom layer.
- Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the first layer to add creamy, cheesy flavor.
- Top with Remaining Mixture: Add the remaining chicken and rice mixture on top of the cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Pour Sauce: Drizzle the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the entire casserole to keep it moist and add richness.
- Add Final Toppings: Top with the remaining cheese, sliced black olives if using, and thinly sliced green onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut.
- Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and higher fiber content if preferred.
- Adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or hot enchilada sauce.
- Omit black olives if you prefer or substitute with diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole when serving for extra creaminess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: chicken enchilada casserole, easy dinner, one dish meal, baked casserole, Mexican casserole, shredded chicken recipe