Description
Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Chicken Casserole brings together a zesty blend of cheesy goodness and kick-butt flavor that’ll make your dinner table sing. Grab your appetite and get ready for a comfort meal that packs some serious punch without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Starches:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 2 cups cooked rice or pasta
Cheese and Spicy Elements:
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup diced jalapenos
Supporting Ingredients:
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grab a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare your workspace.
- Cook 2 cups of rice or pasta according to package instructions, then quickly rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.
- Grab a large mixing bowl and combine 2 cups shredded chicken, ½ cup diced jalapenos, 1 can cream of chicken soup, and your cooked rice or pasta.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of chicken and jalapenos throughout the mixture.
- Add 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese to the bowl, folding gently until the cheese is evenly spread across the casserole base.
- Coat your baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking, then transfer the entire mixture into the dish.
- Smooth the top of the casserole with a spatula to create an even layer for consistent cooking.
- Optional: Sprinkle ¼ cup breadcrumbs or extra cheese across the surface for a crispy, golden topping.
- Place the casserole in the preheated 375°F oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges turn golden brown.
- Check the casserole during the last 10 minutes to ensure it doesn’t overcook or burn.
Notes
- Choose fresh jalapeños for the best spicy kick, adjusting the amount based on heat preference.
- Swap chicken for rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version that still provides great texture.
- For a creamier casserole, mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking to enhance richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Casseroles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg