Description
This Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Combining tender shredded chicken, cooked rice, corn, black beans, and smoky BBQ sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is hearty, satisfying, and sure to please the whole family. It’s a one-dish meal that is gluten-free and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 1/2 cups frozen corn (thawed)
- 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
Base and Cheese
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Spices and Sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, thawed corn, rinsed black beans, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and BBQ sauce. Stir everything together until evenly coated and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking and melting.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired, before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is an excellent time saver and adds great flavor to this casserole.
- For a spicy kick, add a few tablespoons of chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with sour cream or extra BBQ sauce served on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg