Take the stress out of weeknight dinners with this Easy Spicy Chicken Casserole that's as versatile as it is delicious! Perfectly seasoned chicken breasts are nestled atop a creamy, cheesy mixture of rice, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup, creating a comforting all-in-one meal. The optional addition of chili powder and jalapeños allows you to customize the spice level, making it a hit for both heat lovers and those who prefer milder flavors. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients like diced tomatoes with green chilies and cheddar cheese, this casserole is as easy to make as it is satisfying. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy days, this cozy dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray.
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you like spice, add a sprinkle of chili powder to the seasoning.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. They do not need to be fully cooked, as they will finish in the oven.
While the chicken is cooking, mix the cooked rice, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the diced tomatoes with green chilies in a large bowl. Stir until well combined.
Optional: If you'd like to add more spice, toss in the chili powder and sliced jalapeños to the mixture. Adjust based on your spice preference.
Spread the rice mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the mixture, gently pressing them in.
Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish.
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy your Easy Spicy Chicken Casserole with optional heat levels to please every palate!
Calories |
3246 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 167.2 g | 214% | |
| Saturated Fat | 82.7 g | 414% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 911 mg | 304% | |
| Sodium | 5620 mg | 244% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 149.6 g | 54% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.8 g | 24% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.8 g | ||
| Protein | 286.3 g | 573% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.6 mcg | 18% | |
| Calcium | 1898 mg | 146% | |
| Iron | 15.6 mg | 87% | |
| Potassium | 3000 mg | 64% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.