King Ranch chicken casserole welcomes you with a warm swirl of tender shredded chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet corn nestling in a creamy, zesty tomato sauce. Each bite, layered between crisp corn tortillas and crowned with bubbling cheddar and Monterey Jack, evokes cozy gatherings and laughter around the table. We blend savory chicken broth and smoky paprika for rich depth, brighten it with a splash of tangy apple cider vinegar, and finish with a hint of chipotle for gentle heat. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite, this dish wraps your home in pure comfort and irresistible Tex-Mex flair.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This King Ranch chicken casserole
- It’s a comforting, one-dish meal that brings the family together.
- Layers of flavor from creamy sauce, cheese, and spices make every bite irresistible.
- Easy to prepare ahead of time, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins.
King Ranch chicken casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with chiles, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.
- Step 4: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir until the chicken is well coated with the sauce and heated through.
- Step 5: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer one-third of the tortilla strips. Then, add one-third of the chicken mixture, followed by one-third of the cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with cheese on top.
- Step 6: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Step 7: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will make the cheese melt and bubble, creating a delicious topping.
- Step 8: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. This allows it to set up a bit, making it easier to serve.
- Step 9: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and dig in! Enjoy your warm and comforting King Ranch chicken casserole.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create a delicious King Ranch chicken casserole!
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – for the main protein
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup – creamy base
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel) – adds flavor and spice
- 1 cup chicken broth – for moisture
- 1 medium onion, diced – adds savory depth
- 1 green bell pepper, diced – for crunch and color
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – a kick of heat
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – enhances flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for aromatic goodness
- 8–10 corn tortillas, cut into strips – the casserole base
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese – melty topping
- salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
- optional cilantro for garnish – fresh finish
How to Make King Ranch Chicken Casserole
This King Ranch chicken casserole is a delightful dish that combines layers of flavor and comfort. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes, a cooking time of 30 minutes, and an additional resting time of 5 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
Stir in the cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with chiles, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir until the chicken is well coated with the sauce and heated through.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer one-third of the tortilla strips. Then, add one-third of the chicken mixture, followed by one-third of the cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 7: Finish Baking
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will make the cheese melt and bubble, creating a delicious topping.
Step 8: Let it Rest
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. This allows it to set up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and dig in! Enjoy your warm and comforting King Ranch chicken casserole.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Tex-Mex |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Extra Time | 5 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Dietary | Not specified |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Warm and comforting |
Pro Tips for Making King Ranch Chicken Casserole
- Opt for rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
- Use corn tortillas for a traditional texture and taste.
- Incorporate bell peppers for added color and crunch.
- Let the casserole sit before serving for better slicing.
- Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
How to Serve this King Ranch chicken casserole
- Serve with a side of fresh guacamole for a creamy contrast.
- Pair with a crisp green salad topped with a zesty lime vinaigrette.
- Offer tortilla chips on the side for a crunchy texture.
- Top with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve alongside Mexican-style rice for a hearty meal.
- Complement with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and preparing your King Ranch chicken casserole ahead of time is simple and convenient:
Storing King Ranch chicken casserole Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing King Ranch chicken casserole
- Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating King Ranch chicken casserole
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover with foil to retain moisture while reheating.
- Heat for 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is King Ranch chicken casserole and where does it come from?
King Ranch chicken casserole is a comforting, Tex-Mex dish that combines layers of chicken, cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked together with tortillas. It originated from the King Ranch in Texas, which is one of the largest ranches in the world. This dish has become a beloved staple in many households, known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.
2. What ingredients are essential for making King Ranch chicken casserole?
To make a delicious King Ranch chicken casserole, you’ll need cooked chicken (shredded), cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tortillas, shredded cheese (like cheddar), and spices such as cumin and chili powder. You can also add bell peppers and onions for extra flavor. These ingredients come together to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
3. What is the step-by-step process for preparing King Ranch chicken casserole?
To prepare King Ranch chicken casserole, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes, and spices. In a baking dish, layer tortillas, followed by the chicken mixture, and top with cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top. Bake for about 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it cool slightly before serving.
4. How can I store and reheat leftover King Ranch chicken casserole?
Leftover King Ranch chicken casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until warm. If you want to keep it from drying out, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating. Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first serving!
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the ultimate King Ranch chicken casserole recipe, it’s time to gather your loved ones and dig in! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Simple to make and oh-so-rewarding, you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and again. Enjoy every delicious bite!