If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish, look no further than this King Ranch Chicken Casserole. This Tex-Mex favorite layers tender chicken, creamy soup, and zesty spices between tortillas, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any table. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 10 corn tortillas
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/8 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. This nutritional value is based on standard ingredient choices.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté diced onions and bell peppers until soft.
3. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and taco seasoning.
4. Add cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups, mixing well.
5. Spread a layer of the chicken mixture in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
6. Place a layer of tortillas over the chicken mixture, overlapping slightly.
7. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of chicken.
8. Top with diced tomatoes and shredded cheeses.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cooked turkey for the chicken, use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free option, or replace the cream soups with homemade versions for a healthier alternative.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, guacamole, or a side of Mexican rice. You can also serve it with tortilla chips and salsa for added crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through. This dish can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the sautéing step; it adds great flavor.
– Avoid overcooking the chicken before shredding; it can become dry.
– Use enough sauce to keep the casserole moist.
– Ensure tortillas are softened to prevent breaking.
– Don’t forget to cover with foil for the first part of baking.
Helpful Tips
– Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
– Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
– Adjust spice levels by using mild or hot diced tomatoes.
– Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes after baking for easier serving.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking cold.
What can I serve with King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
This dish goes well with a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or tortilla chips with salsa for a complete meal.
Can I freeze King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to two months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
Is King Ranch Chicken Casserole spicy?
The spice level depends on the type of diced tomatoes used and the taco seasoning. You can opt for mild versions if you prefer less heat.
Can I use homemade soup instead of canned?
Yes, you can make your own cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup for a healthier option or to customize flavors.
Conclusion
This King Ranch Chicken Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also packed full of flavor, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With its cheesy, creamy goodness and delightful Tex-Mex flair, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this comforting dish with loved ones and watch it disappear!
King Ranch Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 10 corn tortillas
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, sauté diced onions and bell peppers until soft.
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and taco seasoning.
- Add cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups, mixing well.
- Spread a layer of the chicken mixture in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Place a layer of tortillas over the chicken mixture, overlapping slightly.
- Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of chicken.
- Top with diced tomatoes and shredded cheeses.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
