Southwest Chicken and Black Bean Casserole

recip



A Flavorful, Hearty Dish That Brings the Spirit of the Southwest to Your Table!

This Southwest Chicken and Black Bean Casserole is a vibrant and satisfying one-dish meal packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, creamy cheese, and colorful vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s easy to make and brimming with the spices and textures that define classic Southwestern cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Filling

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels (thawed)

For the Topping

  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • ½ cup crushed tortilla chips (for extra crunch)

For Serving

  • Cooked rice, quinoa, or cornbread (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sliced avocado or sour cream (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).
  2. Stir in the garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for another 4–5 minutes, or until the peppers are softened.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  2. Fold in the thawed corn kernels and simmer the mixture for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Pour the chicken and bean mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
  3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top, followed by the crushed tortilla chips for added texture.


 

تعديل المقال