Zingy Salsa Chicken Casserole
Get ready to add a vibrant twist to your dinner routine with this Zingy Salsa Chicken Casserole! Bursting with bold Southwest-inspired flavors, this easy-to-make casserole layers tender, seared chicken breasts over a bed of fluffy rice, all smothered in a zesty mix of salsa, black beans, and sweet corn. Topped with melted Mexican blend cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, this hearty dish delivers warmth and a touch of zest in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it pairs beautifully with a squeeze of lime for a citrusy kick. With just 15 minutes of prep time and one baking dish, this family-friendly recipe is a delicious and hassle-free way to turn simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dinner.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 pieces (about 1.5 pounds) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 16 ounces jar of salsa (mild, medium, or hot as preferred)
- 15 ounces can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 4 pieces lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the salsa, black beans, and thawed corn. Stir to combine.
Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice.
Pour the salsa, black bean, and corn mixture evenly over the chicken.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top, and continue baking uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through (165°F or 74°C internal temperature).
Garnish the casserole with chopped fresh cilantro.
Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for a fresh burst of citrus flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1001 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.6 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.2 g | 56% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 322 mg | 107% | |
| Sodium | 1174 mg | 51% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 58.0 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.4 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.7 g | ||
| Protein | 123.0 g | 246% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 382 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 1469 mg | 31% | |
*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.
