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High Protein Southwest Chicken Casserole

High Protein Southwest Chicken Casserole combines chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, rice, and cheddar.Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for 10 minutes.Serve warm for an easy, hearty, high-protein family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Southwest-inspired American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup basmati rice uncooked
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1.5 lbs skinless boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 14 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 12 oz can corn, drained
  • 1 16 oz jar salsa
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 360°F (182°C) and lightly prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  • Spread the uncooked basmati rice evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish.
  • Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Gently combine while keeping the rice mostly on the bottom.
  • Add the cubed chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, chili powder, paprika, and black pepper.
  • Stir gently to distribute the ingredients without disturbing the rice too much.
  • Level the mixture evenly in the dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  • Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chicken is fully cooked.
  • Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This High Protein Southwest Chicken Casserole is delicious served warm with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For extra freshness, serve each portion with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sliced green onions, or a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt.
For a spicier casserole, use hot salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder family version, choose a mild salsa and reduce the chili powder.