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High Protein Southwest Chicken Casserole

High Protein Southwest Chicken Casserole is an easy one-dish dinner.Chicken, basmati rice, black beans, corn, salsa, and cheddar bake together.Each hearty serving delivers plenty of protein and Southwest-inspired flavor.

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southwest-Inspired, American

Ingredients
  

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

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 360°F (182°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  • Spread the uncooked basmati rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.
  • Pour the chicken broth over the rice mixture and gently stir to combine, keeping the rice evenly distributed across the bottom.
  • Add the cubed chicken breasts, black beans, drained corn, and salsa.
  • Sprinkle the chili powder, paprika, and black pepper evenly over the ingredients.
  • Stir the upper ingredients gently to distribute the seasonings while keeping as much rice as possible submerged near the bottom of the dish. This helps the rice absorb the cooking liquid properly.
  • Level the ingredients into an even layer.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the casserole.
  • Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  • Bake the High Protein Southwest Chicken Casserole for approximately 45 minutes.
  • Carefully remove the foil and check the rice. It should be tender and the chicken should be nearly or completely cooked.
  • Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for approximately 10 more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
  • Check the chicken with an instant-read thermometer. The thickest pieces should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For additional heat, add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
You can add chopped bell peppers for extra vegetables and color.
For a fresh contrast, serve the casserole with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, tomatoes, lime wedges, or sliced green onions.
Brown rice isn't a direct substitute because it typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.