Description
Tex Mex Chicken and Lentil Casserole is a bold, cheesy, Southwest-inspired weeknight dinner that brings comfort and spice to the table. This easy 5-step casserole combines tender chicken, protein-packed lentils, colorful vegetables, and melty cheese into a hearty bake that’s perfect for busy nights and make-ahead meals—Pinterest-worthy for weeknight dinner ideas.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cooked green lentils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14–15 oz), drained
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, dairy-free sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened.
- Add cooked chicken, lentils, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Let rest for a few minutes, then serve with desired toppings.
Notes
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and dairy-free sour cream.
- Great for busy weeknights or make-ahead dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 to 1/6 of the casserole)
- Calories: Approximately 315 kcal per serving
- Sugar: Approximately 6 g
- Sodium: Approximately 450 mg
- Fat: Approximately 18 g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20 g
- Fiber: Approximately 6 g
- Protein: Approximately 28 g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 110 mg
Keywords: Tex Mex Chicken and Lentil Casserole, Tex-Mex casserole, chicken lentil casserole, easy weeknight dinner, Southwestern flavors, cheesy casserole, healthy casserole