Adobe Chicken Casserole
A flavorful baked casserole combining seasoned rice, tender chicken, melted cheese, and green chiles, perfect for a comforting family dinner with a touch of southwestern flair.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 cups cooked white rice ⓘ
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) chopped tomatoes, drained ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed ⓘ
- Salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 2 cups sour cream ⓘ
- 1 can (7 oz) whole green chiles, seeded and sliced ⓘ
- 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese ⓘ
- 1 can (2.25 oz) sliced ripe olives, drained ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, cooked white rice, drained chopped tomatoes, chopped onion, and cubed cooked chicken.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon half of the mixture into a greased 9-inch by 13-inch casserole dish.
- Cover with half of the sour cream, sliced green chiles, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and all of the drained sliced ripe olives.
- Repeat with the remaining rice mixture, sour cream, chiles, cheese, and olives to create a layered casserole.
- Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours if preparing ahead.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes, or 1 hour if chilled.
- Allow to stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in spices before cooking. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option. If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mixture. This casserole can also be made with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free alternative. For a twist, try adding black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to serve as a main dish on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or Mexican-style corn on the side. For an extra kick, serve with a dollop of salsa or guacamole. For a complete meal, consider serving with warm tortillas or crusty bread. Browse more Mexican recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Adobe Chicken Casserole contains roughly 867 calories, with 17g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1450mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just assemble it as instructed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and follow the baking instructions, adding extra time if it was chilled.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can substitute the cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times if using raw ingredients to ensure everything is properly cooked.
How do I make this casserole spicier?
To add heat, include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce in the rice mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for an extra kick. Adjust the amount of green chiles based on your spice preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).