Southwest Chicken Casserole

Looking for a hearty, wholesome dinner that brings bold flavors to the table without extra fuss? This southwest chicken casserole is the answer. Packed with tender chicken, black beans, corn, rice, salsa, and a blend of southwestern spices, this one-dish wonder is comforting, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

What makes this casserole truly special is its balance of convenience and flavor. Everything cooks together in one dish, and in just about an hour, you’ve got a cheesy, satisfying meal that tastes like it came straight from a Tex-Mex kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for family, or hosting friends, this southwest chicken casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

1.5 cups minute brown rice, uncooked (white or brown minute rice works)
1.5 cups chicken broth
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
10 oz. frozen corn, thawed
15 oz. canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks (raw)
16 oz. jar salsa, any spice level
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
Optional toppings: more Colby Jack cheese, Greek yogurt, salsa, and green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a large casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In the casserole dish, add all ingredients except the shredded cheese. Using a wooden spoon, mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the rice and chicken are submerged in liquid. This helps the rice cook evenly and keeps the chicken moist.

Step 3: Bake Covered

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 50 minutes. The foil traps steam, allowing the rice and chicken to cook through.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake Again

Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly on top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once fully cooked, allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes the casserole easier to slice. Top with your favorite garnishes like Greek yogurt, extra salsa, shredded cheese, or fresh green onions.

About the Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Southwest Chicken Casserole

This dish is the perfect example of Tex-Mex comfort food made simple. The rice absorbs all the salsa and spices, giving every bite a smoky, zesty kick. The chicken cooks up juicy and tender, while the beans and corn add extra texture and nutrition. It’s a balanced, family-friendly meal all baked in one pan—no extra pots required!

Variations to Try

Spicy Southwest Chicken Casserole: Use hot salsa, add diced jalapeños, or sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in an additional cup of cheese throughout the casserole for a gooey, cheesy center.
Veggie-Packed Version: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to sneak in more vegetables.
Low-Carb Twist: Swap rice for cauliflower rice (reduce liquid by half) for a lighter version.

Helpful Tips

Minute Rice is Key: Regular long-grain rice won’t cook properly in this casserole. Be sure to use quick-cooking rice.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Giving the casserole 10 minutes to rest prevents it from being too soupy.
Check Consistency: If your casserole seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This southwest chicken casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can round out the meal with:

A crisp green salad with avocado dressing
Homemade tortilla chips and guacamole
Roasted vegetables or sautéed zucchini
A refreshing pitcher of limeade or margaritas for a Tex-Mex flair

Nutrition Insights

Each serving (1/8 of the casserole) has about 270 calories, with 21g protein, 36g carbs, and only 5g fat. Thanks to the beans, corn, and chicken, this dish is high in protein and fiber, making it both filling and nutritious.

Conclusion

If you’re craving a flavorful, fuss-free dinner, this southwest chicken casserole is a must-try. It combines the warmth of classic comfort food with bold southwestern flavors, all baked together in one pan. Easy, cheesy, and endlessly customizable, it’s the kind of recipe that quickly earns a spot in your weeknight rotation.

So grab your casserole dish, gather a few pantry staples, and get ready to serve up a meal that’s hearty, healthy, and downright delicious. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a favorite for busy families and casserole lovers everywhere!

Ingredients