Introduction
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love? This flavorful chicken casserole combines tender chicken breasts with black beans, corn, and vibrant vegetables, all topped with gooey colby jack cheese. It’s perfect for dinner or meal prep throughout the week. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to create this hearty and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn
1 can diced green chiles
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 cup colby jack cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
40-50 minutes
Total Time
55-65 minutes
Yield
4-6 servings
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Mix the garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, diced green chiles, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
4. Place the chicken breasts flat in a large casserole dish.
5. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
6. Spread the vegetable mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken.
7. Sprinkle the shredded colby jack cheese over the top.
8. Bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
9. If the cheese begins to brown too much, loosely cover the dish with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious chicken casserole with friends and family!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning
Mix the garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, diced green chiles, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts flat in a large casserole dish.
Step 5: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
Step 6: Add the Vegetable Mixture
Spread the vegetable mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken.
Step 7: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded colby jack cheese over the top.
Step 8: Bake
Bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Step 9: Monitor the Cheese
If the cheese begins to brown too much, loosely cover the dish with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Step 10: Rest Before Serving
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestion
This dish pairs well with a side of rice or a fresh salad.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customizations
Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Chicken can benefit from marinating to enhance its flavor and tenderness. While this recipe doesn’t require marinating, consider adding a marinade of lime juice and spices for extra zest.
Baking
Baking the seasoned chicken allows for even cooking and helps retain moisture. Use a casserole dish to ensure the chicken cooks uniformly and stays juicy.
Layering Ingredients
Layer the ingredients thoughtfully. Placing the vegetable mixture on top helps steam the chicken while adding flavor from the vegetables as they cook into the dish.
Using Foil
If the cheese browns too quickly, covering the dish loosely with foil prevents burning while allowing the chicken to continue cooking evenly.
Resting
Letting the dish rest after removing it from the oven allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring a moist final dish when served.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to substitute colby jack cheese with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with guacamole or salsa for added flavor.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or spinach to get more nutrients and flavor.
What if I want to make it spicy?
To add spice, consider including jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or use spicy diced green chiles.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
This baked chicken dish is a hearty and flavorful option, packed with nutritious ingredients such as black beans, corn, and fresh vegetables. The combination of spices gives the chicken a delightful zest, while the melted colby jack cheese adds a creamy richness. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
Use the same chicken and vegetable mix, but serve it over cooked quinoa for added protein and a nutty flavor.
Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
Substitute the chicken with ground meat or turkey and use the mixture to stuff halved bell peppers, then bake until tender.
Chicken Enchiladas
Shred the baked chicken and mix it with the beans and corn, then roll it in tortillas, cover with enchilada sauce and cheese, and bake.
Black Bean and Corn Salad
Combine the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, and cilantro with lime juice and olive oil for a refreshing salad.
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Use the baked chicken and vegetable mix as filling for quesadillas, add extra cheese, and cook until crispy on the outside.
