Dinner

Cheesy Salsa Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe

ByAndria Russo January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Introduction

This Cheesy Salsa Chicken and Rice Bake is a flavorful, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken, zesty salsa, and melted cheese, it comes together in one dish for minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

The image shows a close-up of a baked dish with three clear layers. The bottom layer is made of white rice mixed with yellow corn kernels and small black beans. The middle layer contains chunks of white chicken meat spread evenly. The top layer is a thick, golden melted cheddar cheese that is slightly browned and gooey, stretching over the filling. Small diced red tomatoes and green chopped herbs are scattered decoratively on the cheese. The dish is set against a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
1.5 cups salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
1 cup black beans (canned, rinsed and drained)
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
0.5 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional fresh cilantro for garnish
1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, salsa, corn, black beans, half of the shredded cheese, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
Step 6: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
Use brown rice for a nuttier texture and added fiber.
Swap cheddar for a Mexican cheese blend or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Add diced bell peppers or onions to the mix for more veggies and crunch.
Leftover bake makes a great filling for burritos or taco bowls.

Storage

Store any leftover bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

The dish shows a close-up of a baked rice casserole with visible layers. The bottom layer is mixed rice with corn kernels and small black beans, creating a mix of white, yellow, and black colors with a soft texture. On top of the rice is melted golden-yellow cheese covering the surface with some strands stretching slightly in the foreground. Scattered over the cheese are small pieces of chopped red tomatoes and green cilantro leaves, adding a fresh and colorful touch. The food is in a close view, with a shallow focus that highlights the cheese and toppings clearly. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?

This recipe calls for cooked rice to ensure the bake cooks evenly. Using uncooked rice would require additional liquid and longer cooking time, so it’s best to cook the rice separately beforehand.

What can I substitute for the black beans?

If you don’t have black beans, you can use pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas as alternatives. Just make sure they are rinsed and drained if canned.