This Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings together fluffy rice, zesty green chiles, and plenty of cheese! Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish.
When I make this casserole, I can’t help but sneak bites before it’s even on the table. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? It’s always a hit with friends and family! 😄
The best part? It’s super easy to throw together. Just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy! It makes for great leftovers too—if there’s any left at all!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked White Rice: This recipe uses cooked white rice, but you can switch it up with brown rice for a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using uncooked rice.
Green Chiles: The diced green chiles add a nice kick. If you prefer less heat, use canned mild green chiles. For a spicier option, opt for jalapeños or even roasted poblano peppers.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient provides creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use homemade cream of chicken or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. You can also use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
Sour Cream: This adds tanginess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute and adds protein. For a dairy-free version, try a plant-based sour cream or yogurt.
Cheese Blend: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack is perfect for flavor and meltiness. Feel free to substitute with pepper jack for extra spice or a vegan cheese blend if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Creamy and Not Dry?
To keep the casserole nice and creamy, make sure your measurements for liquids are accurate. The combination of sour cream and cream of chicken soup adds moisture. If you notice the mixture looks a bit dry before baking, you can stir in more chicken broth.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly to coat the rice with the creamy mixture.
- If you want a creamier result, consider adding some extra sour cream or broth before baking.
Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking will also help the flavors meld and keep it from becoming too runny when serving. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10 oz) diced green chiles, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack is recommended)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty casserole will take around 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. In total, plan for about 45-50 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick family meal or to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, let’s get your oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for our delicious casserole.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, drained diced green chiles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of the shredded cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s all well combined. Make sure that every bite will be cheesy and flavorful!
3. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Once everything is mixed nicely, pour the rice mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly; this will help it cook evenly too.
4. Add More Cheese:
Now for the best part—sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. This will melt into a delicious, bubbly layer as it bakes!
5. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and has turned a lovely golden color. Yum!
6. Cool and Garnish:
When the casserole is done baking, carefully take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions or cilantro on top for a fresh touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your cheesy green chile rice casserole is ready to be served! Enjoy it warm as a flavorful side dish or a comforting main course. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! You can substitute brown rice for white rice, but it’s important to note that brown rice takes longer to cook. Make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness at the 35-minute mark.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using a simple roux with flour, butter, and chicken or vegetable broth. This will give a similar creamy texture without the canned option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick meal. If you plan to freeze leftovers, wrap the casserole tightly and store it for up to 3 months.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture from the veggies before adding them to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
