Loaded Mexican Rice Bake
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8 servings
Ingredients
Method
- Directions
- Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toast the Rice
- Add the uncooked rice to the pan. Stir to coat in oil and cook 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings
- Stir in Rotel, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer Until Tender
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Mix In the Good Stuff
- Stir in cooked chicken (or beef), black beans, corn, and 1 cup of cheese. Mix until combined and melty.
- Top and Bake
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese and black olives. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Serve
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and diced avocado. Serve warm.
Notes
Chef’s Tip
• Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
• Swap chicken for chorizo or ground turkey for variety.
• To make it vegetarian, omit the meat and add sautéed zucchini or mushrooms instead.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
• Swap chicken for chorizo or ground turkey for variety.
• To make it vegetarian, omit the meat and add sautéed zucchini or mushrooms instead.

