Green Chilis Rice
A creamy, cheesy rice casserole with green chilis, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering, offering a flavorful blend of spice and richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the sour cream and chopped green chilis and set aside.
- Butter a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Put half the cooked rice in the bottom of the dish.
- Spread half the sour cream and chili mixture over the rice.
- Top with half the grated cheese.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Repeat the layers with remaining rice, sour cream mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the casserole and bake for 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C, gas mark 5).
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using cream cheese in place of some of the sour cream. You can also experiment with different cheese blends if you prefer; a mix of Monterey Jack and Cheddar can provide a nice twist. If you like heat, try adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. You can serve it alongside roasted chicken or fish for a heartier option. For a comforting dessert, consider following it up with a slice of Glazed Orange Angel Food Cake to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Green Chilis Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Chilis Rice contains roughly 1201 calories, with 38g protein, 256g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (75% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook. The nuttiness of brown rice will complement the flavors of the dish well.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarian diets?
Absolutely! This Green Chilis Rice is a great option for vegetarian recipes. It contains no meat, and the combination of cheese and sour cream provides a hearty and satisfying meal. Just ensure that your cheese is rennet-free if strict vegetarianism is a concern.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze Green Chilis Rice before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will last for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. If already baked, reheat directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
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).