Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the world of comforting, flavorful baked dishes that bring families together around the dinner table. At Love With Recipes, we believe in crafting recipes that are not only delicious but also simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. Today, we delve into a beloved classic—Chicken Suiza Casserole—a dish that captures the heart of Mexican-inspired comfort food with tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and creamy sour cream, layered with cheese and tortillas for a satisfying, hearty meal. This dish is more than just a casserole; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and tradition, perfected over years of culinary experimentation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining friends, this recipe promises to deliver a warm, cheesy, and spicy experience that everyone will rave about.

Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Needed Equipment

To bring this flavorful Chicken Suiza Casserole to life, gather the following equipment:

• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: For sautéing the chicken, ensuring even cooking and flavor development.
• Mixing Bowls: For blending the creamy sauce components—sour cream, salsa verde, and chilies.
• 9 x 13-inch Baking Dish: To assemble and bake the casserole. A glass or ceramic dish works well for even heat distribution.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients, crucial for flavor balance.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping chicken and chilies with precision and safety.
• Aluminum Foil or Oven-Safe Cover: Optional, for tenting the casserole during baking to prevent over-browning.
• Cooking Spray or Butter: To grease the baking dish, preventing sticking and aiding in clean-up.
• Oven Mitts: To handle hot dishes safely.
• Serving Utensils: Large spatula or serving spoon for easy, clean serving.
• Optional: Food Processor or Chopper: For quick chopping of chilies or preparing ingredients in advance.

Tags

Mexican-inspired, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Easy Recipe, Baked Casserole, Chicken, Salsa Verde, Cheese, Weeknight Meal, Kid-Friendly, Make-Ahead

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, making it ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prepping for the week. Each serving is approximately 1 cup, depending on portion size and accompaniments.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. The recipe involves multiple steps including sautéing, mixing, layering, and baking. However, with organized preparation and attention to detail, it is accessible for home cooks with basic culinary skills.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Dairy (sour cream, cheese), possibly gluten if tortillas contain gluten.
• Potential Allergens: Dairy, gluten (if using wheat tortillas), chili peppers (for sensitive individuals).

Dietary Preference

Standard recipe is omnivorous and contains dairy and gluten. For dairy-free or gluten-free adaptations, substitutions are recommended (see Tips and Tricks). Always check labels on ingredients to ensure they meet specific dietary needs.

Course

Main Course — hearty, filling, perfect as a standalone meal or with side dishes.

Cuisine

Mexican-inspired / Latin American

Ingredients

Ingredient Table

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by laying out your chicken breasts and thighs on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces—roughly 1-inch cubes. This size allows for even cooking and ensures the chicken absorbs the flavors during baking. Be mindful to trim any excess fat or connective tissue to achieve a tender, uniform texture in your final dish. Properly cut chicken pieces not only promote even roasting but also facilitate a better mouthfeel and easier serving.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper at this stage to enhance flavor from the outset. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it turns lightly golden brown on all sides—about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial; browning the chicken develops complex flavors through the Maillard reaction and helps retain moisture inside the meat. Do not overcrowd the skillet—work in batches if necessary—to ensure proper searing. Remove the sautéed chicken from heat and set aside to cool slightly, preventing excess moisture from diluting your sauce layers later.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Salsa Verde Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, salsa verde, and chopped mild green chilies. Use a whisk or a sturdy spoon to blend these ingredients thoroughly until smooth. The sour cream lends a luscious creaminess, balancing the tangy acidity of the salsa verde, while the chilies add a mild heat and fresh flavor. Adjust the number of chilies based on your preferred spice level. For a milder dish, use fewer chilies; for a bolder, spicier casserole, add more or opt for hotter varieties. This mixture forms the flavorful, creamy sauce that will infuse every layer of your casserole with a delightful tang and richness.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Start by pouring a thin layer of the salsa verde mixture into the bottom of the dish, spreading it evenly to coat the surface. This initial layer ensures that the bottom of the casserole remains moist and flavorful.

Next, distribute the sautéed chicken evenly over the sauce layer. Tear the flour tortillas into rough pieces—about 1 to 2 inches—and scatter a layer over the chicken. The torn tortilla pieces will absorb moisture during baking, softening into a bread-like texture that melds with the filling. Sprinkle generously with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, which melts into a gooey, savory topping that complements the tangy salsa verde.

Repeat the layering process: add another layer of sauce, followed by chicken, tortillas, and cheese. Finish with a final drizzle of the remaining sauce and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. Covering the casserole with foil during baking can help prevent the cheese from over-browning, but for a bubbly, golden crust, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 30-45 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe poultry consumption. Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 10 minutes to ensure the cheese achieves a perfect, appetizing crust without burning. If desired, tent the casserole with foil during baking to prevent over-browning, especially if you notice the cheese starting to darken too quickly. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting helps the layers set, making serving cleaner and easier, and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice into portions using a large spatula or serving spoon. Serve hot, accompanied by crispy tortilla chips, fresh salsa, or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal. The casserole’s cheesy, creamy, and spicy layers make it a versatile dish—perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or sliced avocados, adding freshness and visual appeal. The dish pairs well with a cold Mexican beer or a refreshing lime agua fresca, enhancing the vibrant flavors of this comforting casserole.

Preparation Tips

• Chopping Chilies: Use gloves when handling hot chilies to avoid skin irritation. Remove seeds if you prefer less heat. For a milder flavor, substitute with roasted poblano peppers or mild green chilies.
• Chicken Variations: For an even juicier result, you can poach the chicken instead of sautéing. Alternatively, use rotisserie chicken for quick assembly.
• Layering Technique: Ensure each layer is spread evenly to promote consistent flavor and easy serving. Avoid over-packing layers to prevent sogginess.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix cheeses—monterey jack or pepper jack can add different flavor profiles and meltability.
• Adjusting Spiciness: For more heat, incorporate hot salsa verde or additional chopped chilies. For milder taste, reduce chilies or use a milder salsa.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.
• Adjust spice levels: Incorporate hot sauce or additional chilies to tailor the heat to your taste.
• Cheese variations: Use a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Queso Fresco for added depth.
• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for a meatless adaptation.
• Use homemade salsa verde: For a fresher, more vibrant flavor, prepare your own salsa verde using tomatillos, onion, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice.

Add-ons

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced avocados or guacamole
• Pickled jalapeños for extra heat
• Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
• Fresh lime wedges for squeezing over the top
• Shredded lettuce or shredded cabbage for crunch

Side Dishes

• Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
• Refried beans or black beans
• Fresh pico de gallo or salsa
• Guacamole and tortilla chips
• Grilled vegetables or corn on the cob
• Simple green salad with lime vinaigrette

Improvements and Variations

• Spice it up: Incorporate diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for smoky heat.
• Cheese layering: Add a second layer of cheese or sprinkle with queso fresco after baking for extra creaminess.
• Low-fat version: Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, or substitute with dairy-free alternatives.
• Gluten-free adaptation: Use corn tortillas or gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Vegetable boost: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, corn, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor complexity.

Save and Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until heated through. Reheating gently ensures the cheese remains gooey and the chicken stays moist. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?

Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves time. Simply layer it with the other ingredients as described, and bake until heated through and bubbly.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe uses mild green chilies, making it mildly spicy. Adjust the heat level by adding more or hotter chilies, or substituting with hotter salsa verde. Always taste test your salsa to gauge spiciness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use corn tortillas instead of wheat-based flour tortillas. Check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Cover the casserole with foil during most of the baking time, removing it in the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown evenly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

What variations can I try?

Experiment with different cheeses, add extra vegetables, or spice it up with chipotle peppers. You can also turn this into a layered enchilada casserole by adding beans or rice for a more filling meal.

Conclusion

In summary, this Chicken Suiza Casserole is a versatile, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, tangy salsa verde, and creamy cheese into a comforting baked meal. Its layers of textures and flavors make it a family favorite, easy to prepare, and adaptable to various dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this casserole delivers on all fronts. Remember, the key to perfecting this dish lies in balancing the flavors—adjust the heat, cheese, and ingredients to suit your taste buds. We encourage you to experiment with add-ons, side dishes, and variations to make it uniquely yours. For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, visit Love With Recipes, your trusted culinary resource.

References

1. Authentic Mexican Salsa Verde Recipes, Mexico’s Food and Cooking, by Patricia Quintana, 2009.

2. Cheese and Dairy in Latin American Cuisine, Journal of Food Science, 2015.