10-minute Mexican Chicken Casserole

10-Minute Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The 10-minute Mexican Chicken Casserole is a quick, delicious, and versatile dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your dinner table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines the simplicity of pressure cooking with the rich tastes of Mexican cuisine. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal to share with your family or a filling base for tacos, this casserole has got you covered.

History

The concept of casseroles dates back centuries, serving as a convenient way to prepare a meal within one pot. The Mexican Chicken Casserole, in particular, draws inspiration from traditional Mexican ingredients and cooking methods, adapted for modern, fast-paced lifestyles. The use of a pressure cooker to expedite the cooking process is a nod to contemporary kitchen gadgets, making traditional flavors accessible to today's home cooks.

Ingredients

2 cups of chicken stock
1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) of diced tomatoes with mild green chilies
10 whole frozen chicken tenders
1 cup of regular long grain white rice
0.5 cup of shredded Mexican cheese
1 envelope of mild taco seasoning

How to prepare

Place all ingredients in a pressure cooker.
Set the pressure cooker to high pressure and cook for 10 minutes once the timer is up.
Perform a quick release. The casserole is great as is.
Alternatively, you can use it to fill corn tortillas and top with taco sauce and cheese.

Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with canned black beans or cooked quinoa. To make it gluten-free, ensure the taco seasoning and chicken stock are gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with canned black beans or cooked quinoa for a vegetarian alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or use hot taco seasoning for more heat.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in cream cheese or top with extra shredded cheese for a creamier texture.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with canned black beans or cooked quinoa. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more variety.
Consider these variations to tailor the casserole to your taste:
Swap the chicken for beef or pork for a different flavor profile.
Add beans or corn to the mix for extra texture and nutrition.
Use brown rice instead of white for a whole grain option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Mexican Chicken Casserole, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality chicken stock for a richer flavor base.

- If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for hot diced chilies instead of mild.

- Ensure the pressure cooker is properly sealed to achieve the correct cooking pressure.

- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after releasing the pressure to allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid fully.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole can be enjoyed on its own or used as a filling for tacos. For a complete meal, serve with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Using a pressure cooker is key to this recipe's quick preparation time. It's important to familiarize yourself with your pressure cooker's instructions to ensure safety and the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have taco seasoning, you can make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Additionally, any type of shredded cheese can be used in place of Mexican cheese if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken stock and dice the chilies ahead of time to speed up the cooking process even further. Store these prepped ingredients in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the casserole in a colorful dish to complement its vibrant flavors. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a lime wedge for an extra touch of freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp beer or a citrusy white wine pairs beautifully with the flavors of this casserole. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling limeade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock if the casserole seems dry.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of the Mexican Chicken Casserole contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a relatively light yet satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

This casserole is relatively moderate in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the long white rice. A serving of this dish provides approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those managing their carb intake.

Fats

The fats in this recipe mainly come from the shredded Mexican cheese. However, since the dish only contains a half cup of cheese distributed across multiple servings, the fat content remains relatively low. Each serving contains about 5-10 grams of fat, depending on the specific type of cheese used.

Proteins

The chicken tenders are the primary source of protein in this casserole, making it a high-protein meal option. Each serving offers roughly 20-25 grams of protein, contributing to muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the inclusion of diced chilies and chicken stock. Vitamins A and C, along with iron and calcium, are present in modest amounts, contributing to overall nutritional balance.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe include dairy (from the cheese) and potential gluten (depending on the taco seasoning used). Always check the labels of pre-packaged ingredients if you have specific food allergies.

Summary

Overall, the 10-minute Mexican Chicken Casserole is a balanced meal, offering a good mix of proteins, moderate carbohydrates, and low fats. It's also a source of essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a quick dinner.

Summary

The 10-minute Mexican Chicken Casserole is a testament to the ease and versatility of modern cooking, bringing traditional flavors to the table without the need for hours of preparation. With its balanced nutrition profile and customizable ingredients, it's a perfect meal solution for any night of the week.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for 10-minute Mexican Chicken Casserole. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and dishes. As we chatted over cups of steaming coffee, she suddenly got up and rummaged through her collection of recipe cards.

"Ah-ha! Here it is," she exclaimed, holding up a faded card with handwritten notes. "This is my go-to recipe for busy nights when I need something quick and delicious."

I watched intently as Maria gathered the simple ingredients for the casserole – cooked chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, and cheese. She explained that all you had to do was layer the ingredients in a baking dish, pop it in the oven for 10 minutes, and voila! Dinner was served.

As I helped Maria assemble the casserole, I couldn't help but marvel at how easy and flavorful it looked. The aroma of the bubbling cheese and spicy salsa filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

After just a few minutes in the oven, the casserole was ready. Maria pulled it out, the cheese bubbly and golden brown. She scooped out a generous portion onto my plate and handed me a fork.

"Try it," she urged, a twinkle in her eye.

I took a bite and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The tender chicken, creamy beans, sweet corn, and spicy salsa all melded together in perfect harmony. I couldn't believe something so delicious could be made in just 10 minutes.

From that day on, I knew the 10-minute Mexican Chicken Casserole would become a staple in my own kitchen. I asked Maria to write down the recipe for me, and she gladly obliged, adding a few of her own special tips and tricks.

Over the years, I've made this casserole countless times for my family and friends. It never fails to impress, and people always ask for the recipe. I love sharing the story of how I learned to make it from Maria, my dear friend and culinary mentor.

As I pass on this recipe to future generations, I always make sure to mention Maria and the special day we spent in her kitchen. Food has a way of bringing people together, creating memories that last a lifetime.

I like to think of this 10-minute Mexican Chicken Casserole as a little piece of Maria's warmth and generosity, a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing good food with loved ones. And every time I make it, I feel grateful for the time spent with my dear friend, learning from her and creating delicious memories together.