If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty casserole that bursts with flavor in every bite, this King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe will become your new favorite. Combining tender shredded chicken, a creamy blend of soups and spices, vibrant veggies, and layers of soft tortillas topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish embodies warm Southern hospitality in a pan. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing potluck centerpiece that brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied appetites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that come together effortlessly, each playing a vital role in creating that signature rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavor. From the aromatic sautéed onions and bell peppers to the creamy soup base and melty cheddar cheese, every component adds texture, color, and depth.
- Olive oil: A small amount for sautéing, it helps soften and bring out the sweetness in the vegetables.
- Onion, diced: Adds a subtle sharpness and savory foundation to the casserole.
- Red bell pepper, diced: Gives a hint of sweetness and vibrant color that brightens the dish.
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: One half of the creamy soup duo that creates luscious sauce texture.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: The other half that adds a rich, comforting chicken flavor.
- Diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides acidity and moisture, balancing richness with freshness.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce smooth while controlling saltiness.
- Diced green chilies: Brings subtle heat and a southwestern flair without overpowering.
- Chili powder: Infuses warmth and earthy spice essential to classic King Ranch flavor.
- Garlic powder: Offers a rounded boost of savory depth in every bite.
- Cooked chicken, shredded: This hearty protein is the star component that soaks up surrounding flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top and between layers for irresistible gooeyness.
- Tortillas (corn or flour): Soft layers that soak in sauce and hold everything together—4 cut in half for layering variety.
- Chopped chives: A fresh, green garnish that adds a mild onion bite and visual appeal at serving time.
How to Make King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the stage for baking this delicious casserole. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes. This step unlocks the flavors of the veggies that will mingle with the creamy sauce later on, creating a beautifully balanced base.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onions and peppers with the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, diced green chilies, chili powder, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. This mixture is the heart of your King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe, offering that signature creamy, savory texture with just the right kick of spice.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread half a cup of the sauce mixture on the bottom to prevent sticking and add moisture. Then, layer half of the shredded chicken, 2 cups of sauce, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the tortillas (including the halved ones for crunch and even distribution). Repeat this layering process with the remaining ingredients, making sure to finish with a generous layer of sauce and cheese on top. Layering is key to this recipe—it ensures every bite is a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the layered casserole into your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the sauce bubbles gently and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. This baking time allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to develop that irresistible crust that invites you to dig in.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the chopped chives over the top. The chives add a pop of fresh color and a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall dish. Serve your King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe hot and watch as everyone eagerly enjoys this comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.
How to Serve King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped chives are the classic garnish that adds brightness, but you can also sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if you want an extra creamy touch. These simple additions enhance the visual appeal and introduce fresh, contrasting flavors to the rich casserole.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty casserole with crisp green salads or steamed veggies to balance the richness. Mexican-style street corn, Spanish rice, or even some simple guacamole and tortilla chips also make fantastic side options, turning your meal into a festive feast inspired by the southwest.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, consider spooning the casserole into individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for charming personal servings. You can also turn leftovers into loaded tostadas by placing a slice of the casserole on a crisp tortilla and topping with avocado slices and fresh salsa. The possibilities are surprisingly endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It keeps well and retains its creamy texture, making it perfect for enjoying quick lunches or dinners on busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking again. Freezing is a great way to have homemade comfort food ready whenever you need it.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, approximately 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option, but the oven method helps retain the perfect texture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, contributing juicy, flavorful shredded meat that compliments the creamy sauce perfectly. Just shred it and use it as you would cooked chicken in the recipe.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes it super convenient for busy days or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.
What if I don’t have all the canned soups mentioned?
If you don’t have condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soups, you can make homemade versions or substitute with cream of celery or cream of broccoli for a slightly different but delicious twist.
Is it better to use corn or flour tortillas?
Both work wonderfully. Corn tortillas add more authentic southwestern flavor and a slightly firmer texture, while flour tortillas make the casserole softer and a bit fluffier. Feel free to choose based on your taste preference or what you have on hand.
Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding extras like corn kernels, black beans, or even sliced mushrooms elevates the dish’s nutrition and texture. Just remember to sauté harder veggies beforehand to maintain the right consistency.
Final Thoughts
Making this King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe is like wrapping yourself up in a warm, flavorful hug after a long day. It’s easy, satisfying, and endlessly comforting, with layers that invite second helpings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it becomes a treasured staple in your family’s meal rotation — it truly is a dish that brings joy with every bite.
Print
King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a comforting Tex-Mex classic featuring layers of tender chicken, creamy soups, diced tomatoes, and tortillas, all baked to bubbly perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top. This hearty casserole is flavorful and satisfying, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- â…” cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 10 medium tortillas (corn or flour), 4 of them cut in half
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Sauté Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the sautéed onion and bell pepper along with the condensed cream of mushroom and chicken soups, undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, diced green chilies, chili powder, and garlic powder. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined to create a flavorful sauce base.
- Layer the Casserole: Pour about half a cup of the sauce mixture evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Then, layer half of the shredded cooked chicken on top. Cover the chicken with two cups of the sauce, then sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Next, layer half of the tortillas (whole and halved). Repeat this layering process one more time, ending with a generous layer of sauce and cheese on the very top.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheddar cheese is melted and golden brown, indicating it is fully cooked and ready to serve.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. Garnish the top with freshly chopped chives for added color and flavor. Serve the dish hot and enjoy a comforting family meal.
Notes
- You can use either corn or flour tortillas based on your preference.
- Shredded cooked chicken can be rotisserie, boiled, or grilled chicken.
- Adjust chili powder to taste for more or less spice.
- For a lower sodium version, choose low-sodium soups and broth.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
