Deidra Mangus

Cinco De Mayo was here and I have been wanting to make some sort of healthy alternative to a Mexican meal… because we all know not all Mexican food is healthy despite having some veggies on top!

So I put together this dish that was so so good!! Very simple to make, and it’s a healthy dish that the whole family will love!

• 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
• 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed or shredded (I used a rotisserie chicken.)
• 14 oz. your favorite salsa (I prefer fresh if possible)
• ½ cup corn kernels, frozen, canned or roasted
• ½ cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• salt & pepper to taste, as needed
• 1 cup shredded cheese, divided (I used a block of Kolby Jack and shredded it myself since shredded cheese has some extra ingredients that are not so healthy).
• Optional garnish; diced avocado, tomato and fresh cilantro

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. and prepare an 8×8 or 2 to 2½ quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine brown rice or quinoa, chicken, soup or salsa, corn, black beans, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, garlic salt and ½ cup shredded cheese.
3. Spread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining ½ cup shredded cheese. Bake uncovered until bubbly and cheese is melted, about 15 minutes.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with avocado, tomato and cilantro, if desired.

Feel free to eat all by itself in a dish and if you like sour cream, add 1 tbsp of plain Greek Yogurt as a healthy alternative! You can also use this as a dip with whole grain tortilla chips!