Zingy Salsa Chicken Casserole

Get ready to add a vibrant twist to your dinner routine with this Zingy Salsa Chicken Casserole! Bursting with bold Southwest-inspired flavors, this easy-to-make casserole layers tender, seared chicken breasts over a bed of fluffy rice, all smothered in a zesty mix of salsa, black beans, and sweet corn. Topped with melted Mexican blend cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, this hearty dish delivers warmth and a touch of zest in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it pairs beautifully with a squeeze of lime for a citrusy kick. With just 15 minutes of prep time and one baking dish, this family-friendly recipe is a delicious and hassle-free way to turn simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dinner.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 pieces (about 1.5 pounds) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 16 ounces jar of salsa (mild, medium, or hot as preferred)
• 15 ounces can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 4 pieces lime wedges (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 4

In a large mixing bowl, combine the salsa, black beans, and thawed corn. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 6

Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice.

Step 7

Pour the salsa, black bean, and corn mixture evenly over the chicken.

Step 8

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Step 9

Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top, and continue baking uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through (165°F or 74°C internal temperature).

Step 10

Garnish the casserole with chopped fresh cilantro.

Step 11

Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for a fresh burst of citrus flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	4002.3 grams (4002.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5987

Total Fat 172.60g	221%
Saturated Fat 66.10g	331%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 1934mg	645%
Sodium 7621mg	331%
Total Carbohydrate 332.00g	121%
Dietary Fiber 46.30g	165%
Total Sugars 40.50g
Protein 738.30g	1477%

Vitamin D 20IU	102%
Calcium 2184mg	168%
Iron 38mg	211%
Potassium 8493mg	181%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.6%

Protein: 50.6%

Carbs: 22.8%