Imagine a dish that combines the smoky heat of chipotle, the creamy richness of melted cheese, and tender shredded chicken, all nestled in perfectly cooked rice. This Creamy Chicken and Chipotle Rice Bake is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary! Whether you're craving a quick family-friendly meal or looking to impress dinner guests, this Mexican-inspired casserole promises to be your new go-to recipe that delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chipotle sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, and chipotle sauce. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
- Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture, covering the entire surface.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the mixture to set.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of additional sour cream.
Tips
- Use leftover rice or rotisserie chicken to cut down on preparation time and add extra convenience.
- For a spicier kick, choose a hot chipotle sauce or add some diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- Ensure your chicken is thoroughly shredded and evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Let the dish rest after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to set properly.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and use low-fat cheese.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or a Mexican cheese mix for varied flavor profiles.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions to add a bright, fresh element to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
