Print

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 5 reviews

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting American skillet dish featuring tender shredded rotisserie chicken, fluffy white rice, melted Colby jack and mozzarella cheeses, refried beans, charred corn, sautéed onions, and tangy tomatillo salsa. Baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh scallions and cilantro, this hearty casserole is perfect for a satisfying dinner with family or friends.

Ingredients

Rice and Cheese Mixture

  • 1 ½ cups white rice
  • 2 cups shredded Colby jack cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1 cup frozen charred corn
  • 2 yellow onions, diced and sautéed until golden
  • 1 4.5-ounce can chopped green chiles
  • 1 ½ cups tomatillo salsa
  • 1-2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • Kosher salt and pepper to taste

For Assembling

  • 1 cup canned refried beans
  • Non-stick spray
  • Finely chopped scallions and cilantro to garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it is at the right baking temperature for the casserole.
  2. Cook Rice: Prepare the white rice according to package instructions until fully cooked. Remove from heat and transfer it to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Fold into the cooked rice 1 ½ cups of the shredded Colby jack cheese, ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella, frozen charred corn, sautéed onions, shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped green chiles, and tomatillo salsa. Season the mixture with kosher salt and pepper, and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Prepare Skillet: Lightly spray a medium-sized oven-safe skillet with non-stick spray. Spread the refried beans evenly on the bottom to create a flavorful base layer for the casserole.
  5. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the rice and chicken mixture into the skillet over the refried beans layer. Evenly top the mixture with the remaining ½ cup Colby jack cheese and ½ cup mozzarella cheese to ensure the casserole is cheesy on top.
  6. Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish with finely chopped scallions and cilantro for a fresh finish before serving hot.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of shredded chicken to suit your preference or use leftover roasted chicken for convenience.
  • For added spice, consider mixing in jalapeños or serving with hot sauce on the side.
  • Ensure the skillet used is oven-safe to avoid damage or injury.
  • You can substitute Colby jack with cheddar cheese if desired.
  • If tomatillo salsa is unavailable, a green salsa or mild salsa verde can be used as a substitute.