Southwest Chicken Casserole

Southwest Chicken Casserole is a bold, comforting dish packed with Tex-Mex flavor and plenty of cheesy goodness. Loaded with tender chicken, beans, corn, and warm spices, this casserole is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.

What makes this recipe shine is its balance of textures and flavors. Creamy sauce brings everything together, while Rotel tomatoes add brightness and a gentle kick. The rice and beans make it filling enough to stand on its own, while the cheese on top melts into a golden, irresistible finish.

This casserole is especially great for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly with simple, familiar ingredients. It’s also flexible and forgiving, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand.

Serve it hot with tortilla chips, avocado, or a spoonful of salsa for an extra layer of flavor. Whether it’s for family dinner or casual entertaining, this Southwest chicken casserole is always a hit.

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup cooked rice, white or brown
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded Mexican-blend or cheddar cheese
Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, rice, black beans, corn, and Rotel tomatoes.
Stir in the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and lightly golden.
Garnish with cilantro or green onions before serving.

Variations

Add diced jalapeños or green chiles for extra heat.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy twist.
Swap black beans for pinto beans if preferred.
Make it low-carb by omitting the rice and adding extra chicken and vegetables.

Tips

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking so it sets nicely.
Serve with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or salsa for added freshness.
This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.