Description
Creamy King Ranch Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
1 small onion, finely diced
1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 small corn tortillas (or tortilla chips)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the sautéed vegetables and cooked chicken.
Layer the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer 4 corn tortillas (or a layer of tortilla chips) on the bottom of the dish.
Spread a third of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
Sprinkle a third of the shredded cheeses over the chicken mixture.
Repeat these layers two more times, ending with cheese on top.
Bake:
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Top the casserole with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
#KingRanchChicken #ComfortFood #CasseroleRecipes
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded. While the oven preheats to 350°F, sauté the onion and bell pepper until tender but not browned. In your largest mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the two cream soups and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Whisk in all the dried spices until smooth. Fold in the sautéed vegetables and chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. For layering, tear the corn tortillas into quarters for even coverage. Assemble in your greased 9×13 dish: tortillas, chicken mixture, then a blend of both cheeses. Press each layer down gently before repeating. Always end with a generous cheese topping.
Serving Suggestions
This rich casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed with a lime vinaigrette, a simple side of black beans, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus. For a true Tex-Mex spread, add bowls of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa on the side. Leftovers reheat wonderfully for lunch the next day.
How-to Summary
In summary, King Ranch Chicken Casserole is built in three key stages: 1) Sauté diced onion and pepper. 2) Mix soups, tomatoes, spices, chicken, and veggies into a creamy filling. 3) Layer tortillas, filling, and cheese in a baking dish, repeating to create three full layers. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of canned cream soups? Create a homemade sauce by melting 4 tbsp butter, whisking in 1/4 cup flour, then slowly adding 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 cup milk. Cook until thickened and use in place of both canned soups.
Is there a substitute for corn tortillas? Yes, flour tortillas cut into quarters work well. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free corn tortillas or a layer of tortilla chips.
How can I spice it up? Use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies, add a diced jalapeño to the sauté, or increase the chili powder and cumin to taste.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 300°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: Do not use raw chicken in the mixture—it must be pre-cooked. Do not skip sautéing the onions and peppers, as this step builds foundational flavor. Do not add extra liquid (like broth or water) to the sauce mixture, as it will make the casserole soupy. Ensure you cover the dish for the initial bake to prevent the tortillas from drying out or burning before the casserole is heated through.
Conclusion
This King Ranch Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors in one satisfying dish. Its straightforward layering technique and forgiving nature make it perfect for both weeknight dinners and potluck gatherings. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can avoid common errors and customize it to your taste. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing recipe that reliably delivers delicious results.