Directions to follow

Follow these simple steps to create your casserole masterpiece:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices and release their flavor.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, the sautéed onion mixture, sour cream, and salsa. Mix everything well until fully incorporated.
5. Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the mixture.
7. Layer the remaining chicken mixture on top, followed by the remaining cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.

How to plate and pair

Serving your Mexican Chicken Casserole is all about presentation. Scoop generous portions onto plates and top with additional cilantro for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing side salad or some warm, crusty bread. You can also offer toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, or extra salsa on the side to let everyone customize their plate.

How to store & freeze

Storing leftovers? This casserole holds up wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven for baked perfection.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some pro tips to elevate your casserole:

• For added flavor, consider marinating your chicken before cooking it.
• If you like a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
• To keep it extra creamy, you can mix in an additional dollop of sour cream just before baking.

Creative twists

Want to shake things up? Here are a few variation ideas:

• Swap the beans for kidney beans or chickpeas for a different texture.
• Use quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious boost.
• Try different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare this casserole?

Overall, including prep and baking, you can have this ready in about 1 hour.

Can I substitute the chicken?

Absolutely! Cooked turkey or even shredded beef work well in this recipe.

Is it safe to freeze and reheat?

Yes! Just ensure it’s cooled down before freezing, and thaw in the refrigerator to reheat safely.

Embrace the warmth of this Mexican Chicken Casserole in your kitchen. It’s not just a meal; it’s bringing people together around the table!

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