Description
This hearty Southwest Chicken and Black Bean Casserole brings together tender shredded chicken, protein-packed black beans, sweet corn, and zesty tomatoes, all flavored with classic southwestern spices. Topped with melted cheese and fresh cilantro, it’s a complete meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Notes
- Time-saving tip: Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.
- Freezer-friendly: This casserole can be frozen before or after baking for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwestern, Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Southwest chicken casserole, black bean casserole, easy chicken bake, Mexican chicken casserole, weeknight dinner, meal prep, family dinner, high protein dinner