Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole: The Ultimate 35-Minute Mexican Dinner Hacks 🌮🍚🧀
1. Introduction
If you’re seeking a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner option, look no further than the Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole. This delicious recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful Mexican rice, and melted cheese for an irresistible meal that can be ready in just 35 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or an easy dinner for two, this casserole is a versatile addition to casserole recipes Mexican and a crowd-pleaser for lovers of recipes with Mexican rice.
2. Ingredients for Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole
- 1 1/2 cups cooked Mexican rice
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or use pre-cooked chicken)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, sour cream
3. Step-by-step Instructions to Make Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole
**Preparation**
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked Mexican rice, shredded chicken, diced onions, bell peppers, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to get a flavorful filling.
**Assemble the Casserole**
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a greased baking dish. Layer half of the rice mixture over the sauce, then pour half of the remaining enchilada sauce on top. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the layer. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture, sauce, and cheese to create a layered effect.
**Bake and Serve**
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
4. Storage Tips for Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months — just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole
This cheesy enchilada rice casserole pairs well with a side of Mexican street corn, a fresh green salad, or a scoop of guacamole. To make your meal more filling, pair it with dishes like slow cooker honey mustard chicken or Crock-Pot butter chicken. The flexibility of this recipe makes it suitable as a baked chicken enchilada casserole or as a part of casserole recipes for dinner for 2.
6. Why You Should Try This Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole Recipe
Not only is this enchilada casserole with rice incredibly easy to prepare, but it also offers a blend of savory flavors, gooey melted cheese, and satisfying textures. It’s designed to be an eggless dinner recipe that’s perfect for everyone and suitable for meal prepping. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover cooked chicken and rice, turning ingredients you already have into a delicious dish.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole
Is this Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole keeps well in the fridge and re-heats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can customize this dish with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
What are some variations of this Mexican rice casserole?
You can add black beans, corn, or sliced olives for extra flavor and texture. Additionally, swapping the chicken for ground beef or tofu makes it versatile for different dietary needs.
8. Related Recipes and Kitchen Tools
Streamline your cooking with tools like the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set or the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker. For a quick drink to pair with your meal, consider the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker.
9. Conclusion
The Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole offers a delicious and efficient way to enjoy classic Mexican flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Incorporating simple ingredients like Mexican rice, chicken, and cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, quick dinners for 2, or family gatherings. Its versatility, flavor, and ease make it a standout in casserole recipes Mexican. Try it today and impress your family or guests with this mouthwatering, cheesy, and savory casserole — ready in just 35 minutes!
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Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole (35 minutes)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: So, it is suitable for all diets with modifications as needed
Description
Cheesy Enchilada Rice Casserole is the quick and flavorful Mexican-inspired dinner that combines tender shredded chicken, fluffy Mexican rice, and melted cheese, all ready in just 35 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting family meal, this casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish packed with savory flavors and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked Mexican rice
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or use pre-cooked chicken)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, sour cream
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked Mexican rice, shredded chicken, diced onions, bell peppers, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a greased baking dish. Layer half of the rice mixture over the sauce, then pour half of the remaining enchilada sauce on top. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the layer. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture, sauce, and cheese to create layers.
- Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Remove and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or sour cream.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
- Add extras such as black beans, corn, or sliced olives for more flavor.
- For a vegan version, substitute chicken with plant-based protein and use vegan cheese.
- Use precooked rice and chicken to save even more time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
