Easy Green Chile Chicken Rice

This easy green chile chicken and rice casserole brings comfort and convenience to busy weeknights or festive occasions alike It is creamy a little tangy and loaded with melty cheese with just enough green chile kick to make everyone happy

I first made this on a hectic Monday and the family gobbled it up with zero leftovers Since then it is become my go to anytime I need a reliable warm meal that everyone adores

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken: rotisserie is perfect saves time and adds extra flavor
• Cooked rice: white or brown both work well make sure it is fluffy and not soggy
• Diced green chiles: choose mild for kids or medium if you like more punch look for fire roasted for smokier flavor
• Cream of chicken or mushroom soup: provides creamy binding and base opt for a lower sodium version if desired
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: both make it extra creamy plain Greek yogurt adds a bit of tang
• Shredded cheese: cheddar Monterey Jack or pepper jack all melt well and add richness try to use freshly shredded for best melting
• Garlic powder: boosts background flavor without overpowering
• Onion powder: rounds everything out for that familiar casserole taste
• Salt and pepper: lets you control the seasoning taste as you go
• Optional chopped cilantro or green onions: brings a pop of freshness and color
• Optional crushed tortilla chips: on top for crunch especially fun for kids

Step By Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven temperature to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five Celsius and lightly grease your baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking

Mix the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl add cooked rice and chicken stir in the diced green chiles pour in cream of chicken soup then add sour cream and one cup of shredded cheese sprinkle in garlic powder and onion powder season with salt and pepper blend until every grain of rice is coated and the mixture looks creamy and even

Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the filling from the bowl to your prepared baking dish spread the mixture evenly so it bakes consistently cover the top with the remaining half cup of cheese scatter crushed tortilla chips for an extra crispy layer if you like

Bake:

Slide the dish onto the center oven rack bake for twenty five to thirty minutes watch for it to bubble at the edges and the cheese to turn golden brown and fully melted

Serve and Garnish:

Allow the casserole to cool for five to ten minutes before slicing this lets it set so it scoops easily finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions for brightness serve hot

Save

The sharp cheddar always stands out for me as it melts into little golden pockets throughout each bite My kids love when I add extra green onions on top because it makes the dish feel special at family celebrations

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days To reheat cover loosely with foil and warm in a low oven or microwave for single servings This casserole freezes well just be sure to wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap cooked turkey for chicken if that is what you have on hand Switch in brown rice for a heartier texture Use plain Greek yogurt for a lighter twist or try different cheese blends like Colby Jack Adding canned corn or sautéed bell peppers is a fun way to sneak in veggies

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple green salad and citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness Try alongside charred corn black beans or avocado slices For gatherings offer bowls of salsa hot sauce or lime wedges so everyone can top their own

Cultural Note

Green chile casseroles are a staple in Southwestern cooking Bringing together pantry basics with regional flavors like green chiles this kind of dish is all about making something hearty and satisfying for a table full of friends and family

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or any cooked chicken works well—just shred or dice before adding.

→ What type of rice is best?

Both white and brown cooked rice work. Make sure it's fully cooked before assembling the dish.

→ Is there a substitute for sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt is a great alternative, keeping the casserole creamy and tangy.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add the topping right before baking.

→ How do I add extra flavor?

Try mixing in spices like cumin or cayenne, use pepper jack for heat, or garnish with fresh cilantro.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, cool completely, portion, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.