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Chicken and Rice Queso Casserole

Creamy Chicken and Rice Queso Casserole for Cozy Nights

Indulge in the creamy comfort of Chicken and Rice Queso Casserole, a family favorite featuring tender chicken, flavorful queso, and rice.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley Fresh parsley can be used instead.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cups Queso Dip Consider using a homemade cheese sauce.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Milk or non-dairy alternative can be used.
  • 1 can Chopped Green Chiles Use jalapeños for added heat.
  • 1 large Minced Onion Shallots can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Instant Rice Any pre-cooked rice can be used.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend Cheddar or mozzarella can be swapped.
  • 1/4 cup Freshly Chopped Parsley For garnishing.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • 7x11-inch Baking Dish

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 7x11-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Season with taco seasoning, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, queso dip, heavy cream, minced onion, and chopped green chiles. Mix until well blended.
  4. Transfer the rice mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
  5. Layer the cooked chicken evenly over the rice mixture.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Ensure chicken pieces are uniform for even cooking. Use plenty of queso dip and heavy cream for creaminess. Consider adding sautéed vegetables for extra flavor.

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