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Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole Everyone Loves

This cheesy chicken enchilada rice casserole is a hearty, comforting one-pot dinner packed with bold enchilada flavor, tender chicken, fluffy rice, and melted cheese. Easy to make and family-friendly, it is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups red enchilada sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, cheddar or Mexican blend
  • Chopped cilantro (optional)
  • Sliced green onions (optional)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
  • Avocado slices (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
  5. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned.
  6. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, and black beans until well combined.
  7. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.
  8. Cook for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  9. Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
  10. Cover and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
  11. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
  12. Garnish with desired toppings and serve warm.

Notes

Stir well before simmering to prevent rice from sticking. Let the casserole rest briefly before serving so it thickens slightly.