Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the comforting flavors of chicken and barbecue, this casserole recipe is sure to delight. Combining shredded chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and tangy barbecue sauce, it offers a delightful twist on traditional casserole meals. Topped with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy French fried onions, this dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 cups shredded chicken
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup sweet kernel corn (canned or frozen)
1/2 green pepper, finely diced
1 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup French fried onions
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Enjoy preparing this flavorful casserole that not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a nourishing meal for your loved ones.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, green pepper, and barbecue sauce until well mixed.
Step 3: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Transfer the mixture into a large casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Step 6: Add Fried Onions
Remove the foil, sprinkle the French fried onions over the top, and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the sides are bubbling and the onions are browned.
Step 7: Rest the Casserole
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Preparation
For best results, use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken for convenience.
Note 2: Bean Options
Feel free to substitute black beans with pinto or kidney beans if preferred.
Note 3: Cheese Variations
Experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a side of rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Combining the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, green pepper, and barbecue sauce should be done gently to maintain the texture of the ingredients while ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
Layering
When transferring the mixture to a casserole dish, spread it evenly to promote even cooking and to ensure that each serving has a balanced flavor profile.
Cheese Topping
Sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese on top adds a creamy and rich flavor that complements the other ingredients. It melts beautifully during baking.
Baking with Foil
Covering the dish loosely with foil while baking helps to trap moisture, preventing the casserole from drying out during the cooking process.
Finishing Touch with Fried Onions
Adding French fried onions on top in the last stages of baking provides a delightful crunch and enhances the overall texture of the dish.
Resting Time
Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven helps the ingredients to set and makes serving easier.
FAQ
Can I use different beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans based on your preference.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the shredded chicken with cooked quinoa or additional vegetables to create a vegetarian version.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
How do I reheat the casserole?
To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions as needed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or baked potatoes for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This hearty casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, combining tender shredded chicken with protein-rich black beans, sweet corn, and a zesty barbecue sauce. The sharp cheddar and crispy French fried onions on top add a delicious finishing touch. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, satisfying both adults and children alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Quesadilla
Combine shredded chicken with cheese, black beans, and green peppers, then grill in a tortilla for a cheesy and flavorful quesadilla.
BBQ Chicken Tacos
Use the shredded chicken mixture as a filling for tacos, adding fresh cilantro and diced avocados for a refreshing twist.
Chicken and Black Bean Salad
Mix shredded chicken, black beans, corn, chopped peppers, and a lime vinaigrette for a refreshing summer salad.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Stuff halved green peppers with the chicken mixture, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Barbecue Chicken Pizza
Spread barbecue sauce on a pizza crust, top with shredded chicken, cheese, and any leftover veggies, then bake until crispy and bubbly.
