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In the realm of home cooking, few dishes evoke the warmth and comfort of a well-prepared casserole. The Zesty Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole stands out as a perfect example of this genre, combining succulent chicken, wholesome rice, and vibrant vegetables into a single, satisfying meal. This dish is not only appealing for its taste but also for its simplicity and convenience, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed family gatherings.

Zesty Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole

Discover the joy of cooking with our Zesty Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole, a delightful dish that brings flavor and comfort to your table. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a colorful mix of vegetables, this casserole is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With fresh lemon zest and a blend of spices, each bite is sure to satisfy. Simple to prepare and easy to clean up, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite. Get ready to enjoy a nourishing meal that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup diced bell peppers (both red and green for color)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen corn

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 teaspoon)

Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large casserole dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and bell peppers, and sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften. Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until it becomes fragrant.

      Prepare the Rice Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth. To this, add the sautéed vegetables, frozen corn, black beans, ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

        Add the Chicken: Carefully fold the bite-sized pieces of chicken into the rice and vegetable mixture. Ensure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout.

          Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the entire chicken and rice mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the dish.

            Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

              Add Cheese and Uncover: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender. At this stage, the cheese should be melted and wonderfully bubbly.

                Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro to add a bright, fresh flavor.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a homey feel, or portion it onto individual plates. You can add a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of cilantro on each serving for an appealing look.