Coronado Casserole I

Coronado Casserole I Recipe - Chicken and Rice with Cheddar and Corn

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Coronado Casserole I is a delicious and comforting dish that combines chicken, rice, cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

The Coronado Casserole recipe is named after the famous Coronado Island in California. It is a popular dish in the southwestern United States, known for its rich and savory flavors.

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion, divided
1 4 oz (113 g) can chopped green chiles, drained
0.5 tsp ground cumin
0.5 tsp oregano
1 15 oz (425 g) can tomato sauce
0.5 cup chicken broth
2 cup cooked chicken breast chunks
3 cup cooked rice
1 cup sour cream
2 cup (8 oz (227 g)) grated cheddar cheese, divided
1.5 cup crushed corn chips

How to prepare

Combine 0.75 cup of onion, chiles, cumin, oregano, tomato sauce, and broth in a 2 qt (1.89 liter) saucepan.
Cook over low heat for about 10 minutes.
Add chicken.
Stir together rice and sour cream.
Spoon rice into a shallow 2-0.5 qt (473 ml) casserole dish.
Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese; pour chicken and sauce over the rice.
Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese and the remaining 0.25 cup of onion.
Sprinkle with corn chips.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 minutes.

Variations

Substitute ground beef or turkey for the chicken.
Add black beans or corn for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the rice according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole.

- You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for this recipe to save time.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Coronado Casserole I with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Cooking Techniques

Baking, sautéing, simmering

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

- Use crushed tortilla chips instead of corn chips for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of salsa before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Coronado Casserole I with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, and chips for a festive meal. A margarita or a cold glass of lemonade would be a refreshing drink choice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 380

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 28g

Dietary Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 3g

Fats

Total Fat: 21g

Saturated Fat: 11g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 24g

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 30%

Iron: 10%

Vitamin A: 15%

Vitamin C: 8%

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese and sour cream) and corn chips.

Summary

Coronado Casserole I is a balanced meal with a good amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It is a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Coronado Casserole I is a crowd-pleasing dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck picnic at the park by my dear friend Margie. As we all laid out our dishes on the picnic tables, I spotted a casserole unlike any I had ever seen before. It was creamy and cheesy, with layers of tortillas and ground beef peeking out from underneath a golden crust. Curious, I asked Margie where she had found such a unique recipe.

"Oh, this is my mother's famous Coronado Casserole," Margie explained with a proud smile. "She used to make it for us all the time growing up. It's a family favorite."

I couldn't wait to try it. As I took my first bite, I was overwhelmed by the flavors and textures dancing on my taste buds. The creamy sauce, the savory beef, the crispy tortillas - it was a symphony of deliciousness. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After the picnic, I asked Margie's mother for the recipe. She was more than happy to share it with me, and she even invited me over to her house to watch her make it. As I stood in her kitchen, watching her effortlessly layer the ingredients and whip up the sauce, I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.

Over the years, I have made Coronado Casserole countless times for friends and family. It has become a staple at all of our gatherings, and I am always met with requests for the recipe. But it's not just the taste of the casserole that keeps me coming back to it time and time again. It's the memories it holds - of that sunny day at the park, of Margie and her mother, of the joy it brings to everyone who tastes it.

The secret to a good Coronado Casserole, I have learned, is in the layers. Each tortilla must be dipped in the sauce before being placed in the dish, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor. The ground beef must be seasoned just right, with a touch of cumin and chili powder for that perfect balance of spice. And of course, the cheese - it must be plentiful and gooey, melting into every nook and cranny of the casserole.

As I write this, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the times I have made this dish. From potlucks to family dinners, it has always been a hit. And every time I take a bite, I am transported back to that first picnic in the park, surrounded by friends and laughter.

So here it is, my beloved Coronado Casserole recipe, passed down to me by Margie's mother and now shared with all of you. May it bring you as much joy and deliciousness as it has brought me over the years. Enjoy!