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Lara and I grew up together in Texas. We went to school together, we were best friends while we were in school. We would spend a lot of time over at each others houses. Lara shared this recipe on Swappin' Spoons on Facebook. I thought that it just sounded too good not to share with more people. Thank you Lara for your recipe!

Lara Rhea's recipe :
Southwestern Chicken & Rice Bake:
2 cups cooked rice, 1 to 2 cans of chicken meat, 1 can black beans,drained, 1 can Mexi-corn,drained, 1 teaspoon ground cumin,half teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 4 tablespoons butter,4 tablespoons flour,1 cup milk, 1 can chicken broth, more or less, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper...1/2 salt, 1/2 to 1 cup cheddar cheese. In large bowl combine rice,chicken,beans,corn,cumin,garlic powder,chili powder, and pepper. Stir to blend. In a saucepan,melt butter over low heat,stir in flour until well blended and bubbly. Stir in the gradually the milk,chicken broth & salt & pepper. Cook ,stirring constantly,until thickenend. Stir into the rice& chicken mixture. Adjust seasoning to your likeing. Pour into casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for around 25 minutes , then sprinkle on the cheeese and cook about 5-8 minutes more. Can serve with a dollop of sour cream,chopped green olives,etc. Hope you enjoy!