Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe for Two
If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful dinner that feels special but is super easy to whip up, this Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe for Two is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, zesty Ro-Tel tomatoes, fluffy rice, and melty cheese, all baked together to create a comforting dish packed with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a casual weekend meal, this recipe delivers a satisfying, homey vibe without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples but come together to create a vibrant dish full of textures and colors. Each element plays its part to make this casserole truly shine.
- 1 cup cooked chicken: Shredded or chopped, this provides the hearty protein base that makes the casserole filling and nourishing.
- 1 can Ro-Tel (10 ounce): This adds the classic spicy tomato and diced chili kick that brings vibrant color and a touch of heat.
- 1/2 cup white rice (uncooked): The rice soaks up all the delicious juices, becoming tender and fluffy through baking.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory depth and keeps everything moist during baking.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): A cheesy, melty topping that adds richness and a golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (optional): For a boost of smoky, southwestern spices that elevate the dish beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or chives (optional): Fresh herbs for a bright, herbal contrast that lightens each bite.
- Salt to taste (optional): To adjust seasoning as needed, balancing all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe for Two
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking. Lightly grease a 6” x 8” casserole dish so your casserole won’t stick, making clean-up easier and keeping the crust from becoming tough.
Step 2: Layer the Rice and Broth
Pour the uncooked rice into the casserole dish and then add the chicken broth. If your broth is unsalted, feel free to sprinkle in a pinch of salt now to enhance the flavors as the rice cooks. This layer forms the comforting, fluffy foundation of your casserole.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Ro-Tel Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the Ro-Tel tomatoes and their juices. If you like spice, this is a perfect stage to stir in some taco seasoning for extra depth. Spread this vibrant mixture evenly over the rice layer to build that signature Mexican flair.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Using cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend works beautifully, melting into a golden, gooey layer that you’ll want to dive into right away.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. This cooking time allows the rice to fully absorb the broth and the cheese to melt and bubble enticingly. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender and the cheese is golden.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about five minutes—this allows everything to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Now’s the time to sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or chives for a lovely herbal brightness that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, cheesy casserole.
How to Serve Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe for Two

Garnishes
Fresh herbs like cilantro or chives are a must for a fresh pop of flavor and color. You can also add a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños for some heat, or even a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the dish even more.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully versatile but pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, steamed veggies, or warm tortillas to scoop up every cheesy bite. Refried beans or a zesty corn salad can also round out your meal for added texture and heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small oven-safe bowls for a charming presentation. You can also layer it in a tortilla bowl for a festive, edible container that adds crunch and fun to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe for Two, simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for convenient and tasty next-day meals.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, too! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, so you always have a flavorful meal ready whenever you want.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, or microwave portions for a quicker option. Adding a little extra cheese on top before reheating revitalizes the melty goodness beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time. You may need to precook it or add extra broth to ensure it softens properly.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a gentle heat from the Ro-Tel, which balances nicely with the creamy cheese. You can dial up or down the spice by choosing mild or hot Ro-Tel, or by adding extra taco seasoning or jalapeños if you prefer more kick.
Can I make this recipe without chicken?
Yes! For a vegetarian twist, swap out chicken for black beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. The flavors will still come together deliciously with the rice and Ro-Tel base.
Do I need to soak the rice beforehand?
No soaking required. The rice cooks perfectly in the broth during baking, absorbing all the flavorful liquids to become tender and fluffy by the end of the bake time.
What cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar and Mexican cheese blends work wonders because they melt well and add that classic, rich flavor. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack if you want a little extra zing.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe for Two is a total winner when you want something easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor without leftover stress or complicated prep. It’s an ideal option for cozy dinners or impressing a special someone with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm, homey magic it brings to your table—you might just find it becoming your new favorite go-to meal!
PrintMexican Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe for Two
This Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for two people. Combining tender cooked chicken, zesty Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies, seasoned rice, and melted cheese, it offers a comforting meal with a hint of spice. Quick to prepare and baked to perfection, it’s a great option for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or cut into small pieces
- 1 can Ro-Tel (10 ounce can, diced tomatoes and green chilies in juice)
- 1/2 cup white rice, uncooked
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or chives, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease the bottom of a 6” x 8” casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine rice and broth: Pour the uncooked white rice and chicken broth into the casserole dish. If your chicken broth is unsalted, add salt according to your taste preferences.
- Mix chicken and Ro-Tel: In a medium bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken with the entire can of Ro-Tel, including the juices. If desired, add the taco seasoning to enhance flavor. Pour this mixture evenly over the rice and broth in the casserole dish.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and rice mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender, and the cheese has melted and turned slightly golden.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or chives before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked chicken to save time and speed up preparation.
- The taco seasoning is optional but adds a nice southwestern flavor.
- The Ro-Tel can be replaced with diced tomatoes and diced green chilies if preferred.
- Adjust salt carefully, as Ro-Tel and seasoning packets may already contain sodium.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 casserole serving (half of recipe)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Mexican chicken casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner, Ro-Tel chicken recipe, baked chicken and rice