If you’re longing for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that will instantly transport you to the heart of the Southwest, look no further than this Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole. Creamy, cheesy, studded with flavorful green chiles and tender chicken, this classic comfort dish is the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re gathering the family or prepping weekday lunches, this casserole packs big flavor in every bite and comes together with minimal hassle.

Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how each of these simple ingredients transforms into something so crave-worthy. Every component is chosen not just for ease but to bring the right blend of creaminess, kick, and golden-baked comfort to your Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Cooked White or Brown Rice: The sturdy, satisfying base that soaks up every bit of cheesy goodness.
Cooked Shredded Chicken: Tender protein that makes this casserole hearty—rotisserie chicken is a timesaver here!
Diced Green Chiles: The star of the show, lending subtle smoky heat and Southwestern flair.
Sour Cream: Adds luscious creaminess and a bit of tang that keeps each bite comforting.
Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully and brings mild, creamy flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sharper cheesy top for golden color and zippy taste.
Chicken Broth: Keeps the casserole moist and ties all the flavors together.
Chopped Green Onions: A pop of freshness and mild onion flavor that lifts the whole dish.
Garlic Powder: Brings gentle, savory depth without overpowering.
Onion Powder: Rounds out the flavor profile with subtle sweetness.
Cumin: Adds a hint of earthiness and classic Southwestern aroma.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and brightening all the flavors.
Chopped Cilantro and Extra Cheese (optional): For a final flurry of color and flavor on top.

How to Make Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) for that perfect golden finish. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish (or something similar in size) to ensure your casserole lifts out smoothly and nothing sticks behind to spoil your masterpiece.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, bring together the cooked rice, shredded chicken, green chiles, sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, half of the cheddar, chicken broth, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and a touch of salt and pepper. Gently mix until everything is evenly coated in creamy, cheesy goodness—ensuring every mouthful is as inviting as the next.

Step 3: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Pour the savory mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. This ensures the cheese melts uniformly and the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors without any dry corners.

Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole for a gloriously gooey, golden top. This extra layer of cheese caramelizes beautifully while baking, giving the casserole that iconic look and irresistible texture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to let all the flavors meld. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes—just long enough for the cheese to get bubbly and lightly browned. The aroma alone will have everyone racing to the table!

Step 6: Garnish and Rest

If you love a hit of fresh flavor and color, scatter some chopped cilantro and perhaps a pinch more cheese after baking. Give the Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole 5 minutes to rest before serving, letting everything set up perfectly for slicing and serving.

How to Serve Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of toppings. Chopped cilantro adds a splash of color and a bright, herby note that livens up each scoop. If you’re in the mood for extra decadence, a bit more shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top is never a bad idea!

Side Dishes

While the casserole is undeniably the star, it pairs deliciously with a simple side salad tossed in lime vinaigrette, roasted veggies, or even classic refried beans. Some warm tortillas on the side can help scoop up every bit of creamy, cheesy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Give your Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole a personal spin by scooping it into individual ramekins for casual dinner parties or packing leftovers into burritos for lunch. A handful of crunchy tortilla strips or a few avocado slices add visual appeal and extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole is a gift that keeps on giving! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors continue to develop, making every reheated bite just as scrumptious as the first.

Freezing

This casserole also freezes like a dream. Just let it cool completely, cover tightly with foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready for a fuss-free dinner, it’s waiting and ready to go.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole in the oven covered with foil at 350°F until hot throughout—usually about 20 minutes. You can also zap individual portions in the microwave for a speedy lunch or dinner.

FAQs

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken brings extra flavor and shaves time off prep, making this dish even more weeknight-friendly.

What type Main Course

Both white and brown rice deliver fantastic results. White rice yields a classic creamy texture, while brown rice adds a little extra nuttiness and fiber.

How spicy is the Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole?

It’s as mild or bold as you make it! Canned green chiles are typically mild, but if you like heat, opt for a hotter variety or toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I add vegetables or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Sautéed bell peppers, corn, or even black beans blend right in and add extra texture and color to the casserole.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes—every ingredient in this Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for gluten-sensitive diners.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so satisfying about scooping into a bubbling dish of Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole and sharing it with loved ones. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with Southwest flavor—a recipe you’ll crave again and again. Give it a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a staple at your table, too!

Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.9 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. It combines tender shredded chicken, aromatic green chiles, creamy cheeses, and fragrant spices, all baked together to create a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Mixture:

2 cups cooked white or brown rice
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Topping:

Chopped cilantro and extra cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rice, chicken, green chiles, sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, chicken broth, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture in the prepared dish.
Add topping and bake: Top with remaining cheddar cheese, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with cilantro if desired and let it rest before serving.

Notes

Great for meal prep—store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
You can add sautéed bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.
For a spicier dish, use hot green chiles or add cayenne pepper to taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southwestern