Creamy Mexican Rice & Chicken Dinner Casserole

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This creamy Mexican rice and chicken dinner casserole is everything comfort food should be—hearty, flavorful, and easy to throw together. With layers of juicy shredded chicken, zesty Mexican rice, sweet corn, melty cheese, and a touch of spice, it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at the table.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or bringing something to a potluck, this casserole delivers satisfying warmth and flavor in every bite. It bakes up bubbly and golden on top, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that will draw everyone in before you’ve even called them to dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mexican Rice & Chicken Dinner Casserole

This casserole is a weeknight hero—fuss-free, budget-friendly, and incredibly tasty. It’s built on pantry staples like rice and canned tomatoes, and it gives you the option to use leftover or rotisserie chicken. The creamy, cheesy base helps hold everything together in a rich, savory hug that’s hard to resist. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so leftovers (if there are any!) make a great next-day lunch.

What Kind of Chicken Works Best?

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand—shredded rotisserie, baked breasts, or even leftover grilled chicken. The important thing is to shred it or chop it finely so it blends well with the rice and sauce. Dark meat adds more richness, while white meat keeps it leaner. Both work beautifully in this dish.

Ingredients for the Creamy Mexican Rice & Chicken Dinner Casserole

This recipe uses simple kitchen staples to create something truly satisfying. The ingredients each bring their own layer of flavor and texture, coming together in a creamy, cheesy, comforting bake.

• Cooked chicken – Shredded and tender, this adds protein and makes the casserole filling.
• Cooked rice – Use long-grain white rice or brown rice for a hearty base that absorbs all the flavors.
• Rotel tomatoes with green chilies – Adds tangy brightness and a kick of heat to the casserole.
• Corn kernels – Bring sweetness and a slight crunch that balances the creaminess.
• Cream of chicken soup – Acts as the creamy binder for the whole dish.
• Sour cream – Gives a tangy creaminess that blends with the soup for a luscious texture.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey richness and adds sharpness.
• Taco seasoning – Packs in bold, smoky Mexican flavor with zero effort.
• Green onions – Bring freshness and color to the top.
• Cilantro – Optional, but brightens up the finished casserole with herbal zest.

How To Make the Creamy Mexican Rice & Chicken Dinner Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray so cleanup is easy and nothing sticks.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, rice, drained corn, Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, taco seasoning, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir it all together until fully blended and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining cheese, scattering it across the surface for a melty, golden finish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until everything is hot and bubbling, and the cheese is lightly browned on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh cilantro over the top before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serving and Storing the Creamy Mexican Rice & Chicken Dinner Casserole

This casserole serves 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for families or meal prep. It’s filling enough to stand on its own but also pairs well with fresh toppings or sides.

To store leftovers, simply cover the baking dish with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

What to Serve With Creamy Mexican Rice & Chicken Dinner Casserole?

Fresh Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado balances the spice and adds coolness to every bite.

Crisp Green Salad

A simple salad with lime vinaigrette helps cut through the richness and adds crunch.

Jalapeño Cornbread

A spicy cornbread makes the ultimate companion to this cheesy bake.

Black Beans

Serve alongside seasoned black beans for extra protein and fiber.

Tortilla Chips

Scoop the casserole like a hearty dip—especially fun for kids and casual dinners.

Salsa Verde

Drizzle some bright green salsa over the top for extra zest and flavor depth.

Pickled Jalapeños

If you like heat, a few slices of pickled jalapeño wake everything up.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this cozy casserole, these chicken recipes from Mia Plates will be right up your alley:

• Easy Crock Pot Orange Chicken for sweet-savory slow-cooked comfort.
• Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce for a creamy handheld dinner.
• Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas if you like spice and cheese combined.
• Chicken Parmesan for a crispy Italian-style dinner night.
• One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for busy evenings with easy cleanup.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different kind of cheese? Maybe add some black beans or green chilies?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s make dinner easier, together.

Explore more comforting casseroles and creative meals on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite dish today.

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