King Ranch Chicken Casserole

King Ranch Chicken Casserole

King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the taste of Tex-Mex cuisine right to your kitchen. This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, creamy soups, and melty cheese, all layered between soft tortillas. It’s a meal that’s sure to please the whole family!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, King Ranch Chicken Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and is rich in flavor, making it a satisfying dish for everyone at the table.

How to Make King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

• 3 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup sweet yellow onion, chopped
• 1 chopped bell pepper
• 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
• 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
• 10 oz can mild Rotel
• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
• 12 soft taco-size corn tortillas
• 4 cups Colby and Monterey jack cheese, shredded

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened.
3. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and Rotel; mix well.
4. Add the shredded chicken and cilantro, and mix until everything is combined.
5. In a baking dish, layer 4 corn tortillas, then spread a portion of the chicken mixture, followed by a layer of cheese.
6. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with tortillas and cheese on top.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Serve King Ranch Chicken Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a side salad or some Mexican rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra cilantro on top for a fresh touch!

How to Store King Ranch Chicken Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make King Ranch Chicken Casserole

• Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep time.
• Feel free to add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
• Adjust the heat by using spicy Rotel or adding jalapeños.
• For a creamier texture, increase the amount of cream of chicken or mushroom soup.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version of King Ranch Chicken Casserole by replacing the chicken with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also use black beans for protein.

FAQs

1. Can I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

2. What if I don’t have corn tortillas?
   You can use flour tortillas instead, although the texture will be slightly different.

3. Can I use different types of cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with your favorite cheese varieties, such as cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick.