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When it comes to comforting meals that bring family and friends together, few dishes can rival the appeal of a warm, hearty casserole. The Spicy Green Chili Chicken & Rice Casserole stands out as a delightful option that marries the bold flavors of spicy green chilies with the creamy goodness of cheese and sour cream. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also warms the soul, making it a perfect choice for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings.

Green Chili Chicken and Rice Casserole

Looking for a cozy meal that pleases a crowd? Try this Spicy Green Chili Chicken & Rice Casserole! Bursting with tender chicken, fluffy rice, zesty green chilies, and creamy cheese, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s easy to prepare and even better as leftovers. Discover how to create this delightful casserole, blend flavors, and enjoy comforting home-cooked goodness that's sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use grilled or rotisserie for best flavor)

1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed to remove excess starch

1 can (10 oz) diced green chilies, undrained

2 cups chicken broth for added moisture and flavor

1 cup sour cream for creaminess

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a cheesy topping

1 cup frozen corn (optional, but adds sweetness and texture)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic flavor

1 teaspoon ground cumin for warmth

1 teaspoon smoked paprika for depth

1 teaspoon salt to season the dish

½ teaspoon black pepper for a hint of spice

Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

    Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, add a splash of cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, stirring continuously to avoid burning.

      Mix ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, rinsed rice, undrained diced green chilies, the sautéed onion and garlic, chicken broth, sour cream, frozen corn (if using), ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

        Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly across the base.

          Add cheese: Generously sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the casserole mixture, distributing it evenly for a delicious cheesy crust.

            Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and prevent the top from browning too quickly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After this initial baking time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, golden brown, and the rice is fully cooked.

              Garnish and serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 min | 1 hr | 6-8 servings

                    Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole right from the dish or spoon individual portions onto plates. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of sour cream on top and add a wedge of lime for squeezing over the dish. Enjoy your hearty meal!