Chicken Chili Rellenos
Chicken Chili Rellenos is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, zesty green chilies, and a melty cheese blend. Baked to perfection, it offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Split chilies, rinse and remove seeds.
- Arrange chilies on the bottom of an 11 x 7 x 1 1/2-inch pan.
- Top with shredded chicken, then cover with cheeses.
- Beat eggs, milk, and biscuit mix together.
- Pour the mixture over the cheeses.
- Bake at 325 °F for 50 to 55 minutes.
- Serve with salsa.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the shredded Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you're out of biscuit mix, a homemade blend of flour, baking powder, and salt works just fine. This dish is a great way to use up leftover chicken from other meals, like Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Chili Rellenos hot from the oven, accompanied by a side of fresh salsa for dipping. A crisp green salad or guacamole pairs well to balance the richness of the dish. This meal is perfect for family gatherings or as a hearty weeknight dinner, showcasing flavors reminiscent of King Ranch Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For larger portions, bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Chili Rellenos contains roughly 483 calories, with 14g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 864mg per serving (38% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of green chilies?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use canned diced tomatoes or bell peppers instead of green chilies. For more heat, try using jalapeños or a spicier chili variety. Experimenting with different peppers can add a unique twist to the dish.
Can I freeze the Chicken Chili Rellenos?
Absolutely! After baking, let the dish cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
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).