What is your favorite comfort food? My grandma used to make this for every family gathering, and the smell alone brings back a flood of happy memories. Is this cheesy, hearty dinner just the thing for a chilly evening? I’ve tweaked her original recipe over the years to make it even easier, so you can get that same cozy feeling without spending all day in the kitchen. I promise, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your house, just like it is in mine.
What is King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a Tex-Mex inspired layered casserole featuring chicken, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and creamy sauce, all nestled between tortillas and baked until bubbly and golden brown. The name supposedly comes from the famous King Ranch in Texas, although the exact origin is a little hazy. It’s essentially Tex-Mex comfort food in a pan – perfect for feeding a crowd or just satisfying a serious craving. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for company. I’ve served it at potlucks and family reunions, and it’s always a hit!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to eat King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
- Flavor Explosion:The combination of savory chicken, creamy sauce, and those slightly crispy tortillas is just a party in your mouth! I always add a little chili powder to mine for a kick.
- Ridiculously Easy:If you can layer ingredients in a dish, you can make this. What is a great way to get dinner on the table quickly, especially on those hectic weeknights when you barely have time to think, let alone cook.
- Budget-Friendly:What are some of the basic ingredients for tortillas? I love that I can create something so delicious without spending a fortune.
- Super Versatile:What are some of the best ways to use leftover turkey? What are the possibilities?
What I love about this recipe is how forgiving it is. Don’t have cream of mushroom soup? Cream of chicken works just as well! Want to add corn? Go for it! What are some of my favorite Casserole Recipes?
How do I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
Quick Overview
How do I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole? What is the best way to bake tortillas and cheese in a baking dish? Even if you’re a beginner cook, I promise you can nail this recipe.
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil. 2 tablespoons olive oil. 2 tablespoons
- 1 medium onion, chopped.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped. 1 tbsp. 1 tbs
- Red bell pepper, chopped. 1 tsp.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- Can condensed cream of mushroom soup be used in a single serving?
- Can condensed cream of chicken soup be used for cooking?
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained.
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. 2 cups shredded cheddar
How do I follow a step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil. Make sure to get the corners, so nothing sticks! This step is crucial for easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of the entire casserole, so don’t rush it! I always make sure the onions are translucent before adding the garlic to prevent it from burning.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes and Green Chilies, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I always taste the sauce at this point and adjust the seasonings as needed. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and heated through. I sometimes add cayenne pepper for extra heat!
Step 4: Add the Chicken
How do you cook a rotisserie chicken? If you have leftover grilled chicken, that works perfectly too.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Lightly brush or spray each corn tortilla with oil or cooking spray. Cut tortillas into halves or quarters, depending on the size of your baking dish, to make layering easier. Arrange tortillas on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping as needed. I find that slightly overlapping them helps to create a sturdier base. Then, spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Repeat Layers
Repeat layers: add another layer of tortillas, the remaining chicken mixture, and the remaining cheddar cheese. I like to make sure the top layer of cheese is nice and even, so it melts beautifully in the oven. You can even add a little extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!
Step 7: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. The foil prevents the top from browning too quickly, ensuring that the casserole is heated through evenly. I always check the internal temperature with a thermometer to make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set a bit, making it easier to cut and serve. I like to garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream. And don’t forget your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
What should I serve it with?
What is King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
- For a Fiesta: Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans. Add some guacamole and chips for a true Tex-Mex feast! I love making a big batch of margaritas to go with it – the perfect pairing for a festive gathering.
- For a Lighter Meal:I like to serve a salad with lime vinaigrette. The acidity of the lime helps to cut through the richness of the casserole. I also like to add some avocado slices for extra creaminess.
- For a Cozy Night In:What are some good side dishes to serve with tortilla soup?
In my family, we always serve this casserole with a side of pickled jalapeos. They add just the right amount of heat and tang to balance out the richness. It’s a tradition that has been passed down for generations, and it wouldn’t be a proper King Ranch Chicken Casserole without them!
How do you make a King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
How do I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
- Don’t skip the sauté!What is the best way to sauté onions and bell peppers?
- Use Quality Cheese:Why is fresh shredded cheese better than pre-shredded cheese?
- Adjust the Heat:If you like things spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeos to the sauce. You can also use hot Rotel instead of mild.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the casserole. Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Let It Rest: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Tortilla Tip:If you fry tortillas in a pan before layering them in a casserole, you will be able to hold their shape better and prevent them from getting soggy.
One mistake I made early on was using too much soup. It resulted in a soggy casserole. Now, I always use the exact amount specified in the recipe, and it comes out perfect every time. If you want to make this ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
How do I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
- Room Temperature:Is it safe to leave it out for more than two hours at room temperature?
- Refrigerator Storage: What is theHow do you store a casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days?
- How do I use a freezerFor longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. How do you thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating?
Reheating: To reheat, you can either microwave individual portions or reheat the entire casserole in the oven. If reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora
Final Thoughts
What is your favorite King Ranch Chicken Casserole recipe? Is this recipe a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist? If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my creamy chicken enchiladas or my cheesy chicken and rice casserole – both are equally delicious and easy to make. What do you think of this delicious casserole? What are some of your favorite recipes?
King Ranch Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese Monterey Jack or Cheddar
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, sour cream, and cheese.
- Spread the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
