There is something incredibly comforting and delicious about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings together smoky, tangy barbecue chicken with the hearty goodness of rice and beans. This Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser, combining tender shredded chicken coated in rich barbecue sauce with vibrant corn, savory black beans, and melted cheddar cheese to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering. It’s simple to prepare yet feels like a special treat, making it a staple that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this dish unforgettable. Each component in this Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe is carefully chosen to build layers of texture and flavor—from the juicy shredded chicken to the creamy melted cheese and the slight crunch of corn, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken: Pre-cooked chicken works best, and rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut to enhance flavor and save time.
- 1½ cups barbecue sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce—whether sweet, smoky, or spicy—to set the tone of the dish.
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown): Rice acts as a hearty base, soaking up all the delicious flavors while keeping the casserole moist.
- 1 cup frozen corn (thawed): Adds a gentle sweetness and a pop of color to brighten the dish.
- 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed): Brings protein, fiber, and a soft texture that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Sharp cheddar melts perfectly, giving the casserole its gooey, cheesy appeal.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a warm, savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Supports the garlic with a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky undertone that enhances the BBQ vibes of the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight all the other flavors.
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish): Add freshness and a mild bite to finish the casserole with a pop of green.
- Optional chopped cilantro or jalapeños for serving: For those who love extra brightness or heat, these toppings make the dish uniquely yours.
How to Make Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Mix the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce, stirring until every morsel is evenly coated in that luscious, tangy sauce. This step ensures your casserole will be bursting with that classic BBQ flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Combine the Rice and Veggies
In another spacious bowl, mix together the cooked rice, thawed corn, rinsed black beans, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture brings texture and layers of flavor as the cheese helps bind everything while spices keep it exciting.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Next, fold the barbecue chicken into your rice and veggie mixture gently but thoroughly, making sure that you evenly distribute the tasty BBQ chicken throughout. This is where the dish really takes shape and develops depth of flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer this hearty mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top, adding a final cheesy layer that will melt and bubble deliciously. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Step 5: Garnish and Rest
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes to set. Then garnish with sliced green onions and, if you’re feeling adventurous, some chopped cilantro or jalapeños for an extra kick and fresh flavor.
How to Serve Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Bright green onions add a mild crunch and freshness that balance the casserole’s richness wonderfully. Cilantro offers a fresh, slightly citrusy lift, while jalapeños bring heat for those who like a bit of spice.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to add freshness, or some roasted vegetables for an extra layer of comfort. Cornbread or a light coleslaw can also be excellent companions to keep the meal hearty and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual party, why not serve this casserole in individual ramekins? You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing to create a fun, taco-inspired twist that guests will remember!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes great reheated and even develops deeper flavors overnight, making it perfect for a quick next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Place it in a freezer-safe container before baking for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. Make sure the cheese is bubbly again for that freshly baked feel!
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded chicken?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and shred the chicken beforehand. It’s easiest with rotisserie chicken or slow-cooked chicken breasts, which will provide maximum tenderness and flavor.
Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?
Definitely! Adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture before baking will give it a nice kick without overpowering the BBQ flavor.
Can I substitute the rice for another grain?
Yes, you can swap rice for quinoa or even cooked cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Just keep in mind that cooking times and moisture levels may vary slightly.
What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Choose a BBQ sauce that matches your taste preference—whether sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy. Feel free to experiment, as the sauce plays a major role in defining the overall flavor of the casserole.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure your barbecue sauce does not contain gluten ingredients. The other components like chicken, rice, beans, and cheese are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe is such a winner because it’s comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to pull together with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining friends, it delivers that perfect combination of cheesy, smoky, and satisfying taste that everyone will love. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite go-to meal that’s as effortless as it is delicious!
Print
Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and comforting Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole combining tender shredded chicken, savory barbecue sauce, and a mix of rice, corn, and black beans, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy family dinner with a flavorful twist.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1½ cups barbecue sauce (use your favorite)
Rice Mixture
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
- 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- Optional: chopped cilantro or jalapeños for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Combine Chicken and BBQ Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken with the barbecue sauce until the chicken is evenly coated, ensuring every piece is flavorful.
- Prepare the Rice Mixture: In another large bowl, combine the cooked rice, thawed corn, rinsed black beans, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Mix All Components: Add the BBQ chicken mixture into the rice mixture bowl and stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined for a balanced flavor in every bite.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Then transfer the combined mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to create a melty, cheesy crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden, indicating the casserole is heated through and ready.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with sliced green onions and optional chopped cilantro or jalapeños as desired before serving.
Notes
- This recipe works great with store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
- For added heat, mix in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the casserole mixture.
- Check that your barbecue sauce is gluten-free if adhering to dietary restrictions.
