One Pot Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole Recipe

One Pot Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, rice, and enchilada sauce in a single pot for easy preparation and cleanup. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

One Pot Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Combine Ingredients:

• Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Add the corn, black beans, uncooked rice, chicken broth, enchilada sauce, chili powder, and cumin. Stir everything together until well combined.

4. Cook the Casserole:

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Add Cheese:

• Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the pot again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.

6. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve warm with sour cream on the side for added creaminess.

Customization Ideas:

• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced tomatoes, zucchini, or jalapeños for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken, ground beef, turkey, or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more beans.

This One Pot Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!