If you’re looking for a comforting, full-flavored meal that brings together vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, this Chicken & Yellow Rice Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender cooked chicken, savory yellow rice, and a lively mix of Mexicorn, black beans, and zesty diced tomatoes with green chiles. Each bite delivers layers of satisfying textures and southwestern-inspired flavors, all baked to cheesy, bubbly perfection. This casserole isn’t just easy to make; it’s a surefire way to brighten up any dinner table and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients sets the foundation for this delicious Chicken & Yellow Rice Casserole Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s the tender chicken that boosts protein, the yellow rice that adds a vibrant base, or the creamy soup that binds everything beautifully. Let’s take a quick look at what you’ll need:
- Yellow rice (2 packages, 5-oz each): Provides that colorful, flavorful base that instantly lifts the dish.
- Mexicorn (2 cans, 11-oz each, drained): Combines sweet corn, red and green bell peppers for crunch and a pop of color.
- Cooked chicken (4 cups, chopped): Brings tender protein and a hearty texture, essential for a filling casserole.
- Black beans (2 cans, 15-oz each, drained): Adds creaminess and richness plus a nice protein boost.
- Diced tomatoes with green chiles (2 cans, 10-oz each, drained): Infuses a subtle spicy kick and juiciness to the mix.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (2 cans, 10.5-oz each): Acts as a creamy binder to keep everything moist and flavorful.
- Southwestern or taco seasoning (2 Tbsp): Delivers that signature southwestern flavor with a smoky, spicy twist.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully on top, creating a golden, cheesy crust that’s irresistible.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the savory notes in this luscious casserole.
How to Make Chicken & Yellow Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
First things first, preheat your oven to 350ºF to get it ready for our casserole. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. These small preparations save you hassle later and keep the casserole intact when serving.
Step 2: Cook the Yellow Rice
While the oven is heating, cook the yellow rice following the package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked rice forms the flavorful backbone of this dish, ensuring a moist but fluffy texture that holds up well once baked.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Now comes the fun part! In a large bowl, combine the cooked yellow rice with the drained Mexicorn, chopped cooked chicken, drained black beans, and drained diced tomatoes with green chiles. Stir in both cans of cream of chicken soup, the southwestern or taco seasoning, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to suit your taste. This mixture delivers a perfect balance of creaminess, zest, and heartiness that makes the casserole so satisfying.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the well-mixed combination evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to create that beautifully melted cheesy crust everyone loves. The cheese topping not only adds richness but also a delightful golden finish once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. This baking time allows all the flavors to meld together and gives the dish its signature warm, comforting appeal.
How to Serve Chicken & Yellow Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions brings a fresh, herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the casserole’s richness. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado also make excellent garnishes, adding creaminess that elevates each bite even further.
Side Dishes
Serving this Chicken & Yellow Rice Casserole Recipe alongside a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables balances the meal with a refreshing crunch. Consider a side of warm tortillas or cornbread to round out your southwestern-inspired feast perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, dish the casserole into individual ramekins for personalized servings at your next gathering. Alternatively, layering the ingredients in a clear glass baking dish before baking creates a stunning visual that showcases the colorful layers of rice, beans, and veggies before you even take a bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which can be a real treat!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for up to four days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
Freezing
This Chicken & Yellow Rice Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to three months, giving you a ready-made meal that’s just a few steps away.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight if possible. Warm it gently in the oven at 350ºF until heated through and bubbly again. If using a microwave, cover and heat in intervals to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just cook the chicken thoroughly before mixing it into the casserole to ensure everything cooks evenly and the flavors blend perfectly.
Is there a substitute for the cream of chicken soup if I want to make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free cream soup alternative or make your own dairy-free creamy sauce using coconut milk and flour as a thickener for a similar comforting texture.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or even chopped spinach to boost the nutritional value and add more texture to your casserole.
What type of cheddar cheese works best for this recipe?
A sharp or extra-sharp cheddar provides the best flavor punch, but mild cheddar works well if you prefer a subtler cheese taste.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh before serving. It’s perfect for busy days or entertaining!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken & Yellow Rice Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes that captures the heart of comfort food while staying vibrant and full of exciting flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy hungry appetites. Give yourself the joy of making this hearty, easy casserole soon—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Chicken & Yellow Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken & Yellow Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal combining seasoned yellow rice, tender cooked chicken, Mexicorn, black beans, and diced tomatoes with green chiles. It is topped with melted cheddar cheese and baked to perfection, making it a comforting and satisfying dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
Rice and Vegetables
- 2 (5-oz) packages yellow rice
- 2 (11-oz) cans Mexicorn, drained
- 2 (15-oz) cans black beans, drained
- 2 (10-oz) cans diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained
Protein and Dairy
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided into 1 cup and 1 cup)
Seasoning and Others
- 2 Tbsp southwestern seasoning or taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure the casserole does not stick.
- Cook the yellow rice: Prepare the yellow rice according to the package instructions. This usually involves boiling water, adding the rice and seasoning, then simmering until tender.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked yellow rice, drained Mexicorn, chopped cooked chicken, drained black beans, drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup, southwestern or taco seasoning, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper if desired, stirring until everything is evenly combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use fresh cooked chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust the southwestern or taco seasoning amount to taste, especially if you prefer less spice.
- If you want a creamier casserole, you can add a splash of milk or cream with the soup mixture.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with extra beans or vegetables and use a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
