King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe

Looking for a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed casserole that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering? King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a Tex-Mex favorite known for its layers of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. This easy, delicious recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a comforting meal. Stick around to get the full recipe and tips for the perfect King Ranch Chicken Casserole!

this Recipe

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What is King Ranch Chicken Casserole?

King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a layered, cheesy, Tex-Mex casserole made with shredded chicken, tortillas, cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s often spiced with peppers and tomatoes. The dish is believed to be named after King Ranch in Texas, though it has no direct connection to the ranch. Its popularity comes from the combination of hearty ingredients and a rich, creamy sauce that makes it irresistible. If you love chicken enchiladas, this casserole is right up your alley!

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Ingredients List for King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful casserole:

Main Ingredients:

1. Cooked Chicken: 4 cups, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
2. Corn Tortillas: 12 small (about 6-inch size)
3. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (divided)
4. Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: 1 cup
5. Butter: 3 tablespoons
6. Yellow Onion: 1 medium, chopped
7. Green Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
8. Red Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
9. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
10. Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: 1 can (10 ounces)
11. Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces)
12. Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces)
13. Chicken Broth: ½ cup
14. Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
15. Cumin: 1 teaspoon
16. Salt and Pepper: To taste
17. Cilantro: Optional, for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s bursting with Tex-Mex flavor.

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Substitutions and Variations

Want to customize your King Ranch Chicken Casserole or substitute an ingredient? Here are some ideas:

1. Chicken: Instead of rotisserie chicken, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Boil, bake, or poach them before shredding.
2. Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but you can use flour tortillas or even tortilla chips for a crunchier texture.
3. Cheese: You can substitute cheddar and Monterey Jack with Colby Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicier twist.
4. Canned Soups: For a homemade touch, you can make your own cream of mushroom and chicken soups to avoid using canned versions.
5. Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or cayenne pepper if you want more heat in the dish.
6. Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with beans, sautéed mushrooms, or a medley of vegetables like zucchini and spinach.
7. Lower Fat Version: Use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of the canned soups, and opt for low-fat cheese to reduce the calorie content.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making King Ranch Chicken Casserole is easier than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make it perfect:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Cook the Onions and Peppers: Add the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained), and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Mix in Soups: Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Grease a 9x13-inch Baking Dish: Use non-stick spray or butter to grease the baking dish.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Spread a small amount of the creamy sauce mixture over the bottom of the dish.
   • Layer 6 corn tortillas over the sauce.
   • Add half of the shredded chicken on top of the tortillas.
   • Pour half of the remaining sauce over the chicken.
   • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the sauce.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, chicken, sauce, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Step 6: Let It Rest

1. Cool: Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.

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How to Cook King Ranch Chicken Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap to help you master King Ranch Chicken Casserole:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Cook the onions, peppers, garlic, and tomatoes until soft.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce: Combine the sautéed vegetables with the canned soups, chicken broth, and spices.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Layer the tortillas, chicken, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish.
4. Bake and Enjoy: Bake until bubbly and golden, then let the casserole rest before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the onions and peppers helps release their natural sweetness. Don’t skip this step, as raw veggies will remain crunchy even after baking.
2. Overloading on Tortillas: Adding too many tortillas can make the casserole too dense and dry. Stick to two layers to keep the balance of flavors and textures.
3. Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheese is a big part of the flavor in this dish, so opt for good-quality cheddar and Monterey Jack for the best results.
4. Overcooking the Chicken: If you’re using pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie, avoid cooking it again before baking—it could dry out. Just shred it and layer it into the casserole.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve King Ranch Chicken Casserole:

• Portions: Slice the casserole into squares or spoon out generous servings.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans to round out the meal.

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Presentation Ideas for King Ranch Chicken Casserole:

• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or sliced green onions on top for added color and freshness.
• Serving Dish: Serve the casserole in a rustic or colorful dish to match the Tex-Mex vibe of the meal.

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King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day ahead, covered, and stored in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
• Freezing: King Ranch Chicken Casserole freezes well! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Reheat Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, but corn tortillas hold up better to the creamy sauce without getting soggy. Flour tortillas tend to absorb more liquid, which can change the texture of the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for meal prep.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze King Ranch Chicken Casserole?

Yes! You can freeze it before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

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Conclusion

King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a true Tex-Mex comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melty cheese, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or making a dish for a gathering, this casserole delivers on flavor and simplicity. Follow these easy steps and tips, and you’ll have a delicious, cheesy casserole that everyone will love! Get ready to enjoy the rich flavors of this iconic Texas dish!

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