Rice With Green Chilies
Creamy rice with green chilies and melted Monterey Jack cheese offers a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for casual dinners or family gatherings with a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine cooked rice with sour cream and salt.
- Arrange half of the rice mixture in the bottom of a 1-quart casserole dish.
- Layer chopped green chilies on top of the rice mixture.
- Add strips of Monterey Jack cheese over the green chilies.
- Repeat with the remaining rice mixture on top.
- Dot the top with butter and sprinkle grated Monterey Jack cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the green chilies in a little butter before layering them in the casserole. If you prefer a spicier dish, use jalapeños instead of green chilies. You can also substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed for a melty texture. This dish can be easily tailored to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
This rice dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a cozy family gathering, consider accompanying it with sides like Dee'S Macaroni And Cheese or Seven-Up Party Salad for added variety and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes, checking for doneness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice With Green Chilies contains roughly 298 calories, with 11g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2681mg per serving (117% 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 use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and may alter the texture slightly. Make sure the brown rice is fully cooked and tender before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. You can enhance the flavors by adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, and ensure your cheese is rennet-free if you want it to be suitable for all vegetarian diets.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven as directed. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious!
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).