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Casseroles have long been a staple in home cooking, prized for their convenience and versatility. These one-pan wonders allow cooks to combine a variety of ingredients and flavors into a single, cohesive dish, often with minimal cleanup. Their ability to feed a crowd makes them particularly appealing for gatherings, whether casual or festive. What sets the Zesty Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole apart is its delightful flavor profile, which balances the savory richness of chicken and cheese with the bright, tangy notes of citrus. This unique combination not only enhances the overall taste but also elevates the dish from a simple casserole to a vibrant centerpiece on any dining table.

Zesty Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Zesty Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole! Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this one-pan delight brings together juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a colorful mix of vegetables, all enveloped in a zesty sauce. With vibrant spices and a citrus twist, every bite is filled with flavor and warmth. Easy to prepare and satisfying, it’s sure to become a family favorite that impresses guests without the hassle!
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Ingredients
  

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen corn

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large casserole dish lightly with cooking spray or olive oil.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and bell peppers for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

      Prepare the Rice Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, sautéed vegetables, frozen corn, black beans, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.

        Add the Chicken: Gently fold in the bite-sized pieces of chicken into the rice and vegetable mixture.

          Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

            Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

              Add Cheese and Uncover: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. The cheese should be melted and slightly bubbly.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6