King Ranch Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a cheesy, comforting casserole with a little kick of Tex-Mex flavor, King Ranch Chicken is the perfect dish for you. This beloved Texas classic combines layers of creamy chicken, spicy Ro*Tel tomatoes, and a cheesy sauce with tortillas that come together in a savory, satisfying casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or bringing it to a potluck, King Ranch Chicken is always a hit. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and FAQs for mastering this flavorful dish.

this Recipe

What is King Ranch Chicken?

King Ranch Chicken is a creamy, cheesy casserole that's inspired by the flavors of the Southwest, though it doesn't actually hail from the famous King Ranch in Texas. The dish is a combination of tender cooked chicken, a savory sauce made with cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups, diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Ro*Tel), shredded cheese, and soft tortillas. Baked to bubbly perfection, this casserole is pure comfort food with a zesty twist.

Ingredients List for King Ranch Chicken

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

• 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10 oz) Ro*Tel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
• 10-12 corn tortillas (cut into quarters)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

King Ranch Chicken is a versatile dish, and you can adjust it to fit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Meat Substitutes: You can easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the chicken for black beans, pinto beans, or even sautéed mushrooms.
• Soup Options: If you're not a fan of canned soups or want a homemade touch, you can create your own creamy base with a béchamel sauce or use a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth.
• Tortilla Substitutes: If you prefer flour tortillas over corn, feel free to use them. Tortilla chips can also be used for a crunchy twist.
• Spice Level: If you like extra heat, use Ro*Tel Hot or add a chopped jalapeño to the onion and bell pepper sauté. You can also sprinkle in a bit of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Healthier Version: Use low-fat or reduced-sodium soups and cheese, and substitute Greek yogurt for some of the creamy elements to cut down on calories.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this delicious King Ranch Chicken casserole:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you're using a rotisserie chicken, shred 3 cups of the meat and set it aside. If you're cooking chicken breasts, poach or bake them until fully cooked, then shred.

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Grease Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, and cook until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin, and stir to combine. Season with a little salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, undrained Ro*Tel tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine into a smooth sauce. Add the sautéed vegetables and mix everything together.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

In the greased casserole dish, start by layering a third of the tortilla quarters on the bottom. Then spread about a third of the shredded chicken over the tortillas, followed by a third of the soup and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle a layer of cheddar cheese on top. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with the remaining cheese on top (you can mix in Monterey Jack cheese for extra gooeyness).

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the King Ranch Chicken from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole if you like.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your King Ranch Chicken turns out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Casserole: Overcooking can lead to dry chicken and rubbery tortillas. Stick to the recommended baking time and keep an eye on the cheese as it melts.
• Using Stale Tortillas: Fresh tortillas are key to a good texture in the casserole. Stale or overly dry tortillas will become too chewy or soggy. If you're using older tortillas, you can quickly warm them in a skillet or microwave to freshen them up.
• Not Letting the Casserole Rest: Letting the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

King Ranch Chicken is typically served as a hearty main course, but here are some ways to make the dish shine:

• Top with Fresh Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for a fresh and flavorful contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Serve with Sides: Pair the casserole with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a light green salad to balance out the meal.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or green onions not only adds color but also enhances the dish with a burst of fresh flavor.

How to Serve King Ranch Chicken

King Ranch Chicken is a rich, satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to make it even better:

• With Rice or Beans: Serve the casserole with a side of Spanish rice or refried beans for a complete Tex-Mex-inspired meal.
• Taco Night: You can also serve King Ranch Chicken casserole in soft tortillas or over a bed of tortilla chips for a fun taco-style dinner.
• Light Sides: A crisp salad with a lime vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber salad can balance out the richness of the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for King Ranch Chicken

Here are a few simple ideas to elevate the presentation of your King Ranch Chicken casserole:

• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you want a rustic, hearty presentation, bake and serve the casserole in a cast iron skillet. It retains heat well and looks fantastic straight from the oven.
• Garnish with Avocado Slices: Top the casserole with freshly sliced avocado for a pop of color and creaminess.
• Serve in Individual Ramekins: For a dinner party or special occasion, divide the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. This creates perfectly portioned servings that are easy to present.

King Ranch Chicken Recipe Tips

Here are some extra tips to ensure your King Ranch Chicken is a success:

• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. This makes it an excellent dish for meal prepping or entertaining.
• Freeze for Later: King Ranch Chicken also freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make King Ranch Chicken without canned soups?
A: Yes, you can! Substitute the canned soups with a homemade creamy sauce. Make a roux by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, then whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour. Slowly add 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk, whisking until thickened. Use this mixture in place of the canned soups.

Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
A: Yes, you can use flour tortillas, though the texture will be slightly different. Corn tortillas hold up better in the casserole, while flour tortillas may become softer and a bit doughy when baked.

Q: Can I make King Ranch Chicken spicy?
A: Absolutely! For a spicier version, use a hotter Ro*Tel variety, add chopped jalapeños, or sprinkle in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Conclusion

King Ranch Chicken is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy Tex-Mex casserole that’s easy to make and sure to please a crowd. With its layers of tender chicken, spicy Ro*Tel tomatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food with a southwestern twist. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even freezer meals, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a good casserole. Give it a try today and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this Texas classic!

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