King Ranch Chicken Casserole

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King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish that is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. This casserole brings together tender chicken, savory vegetables, and creamy sauces, all layered with tortillas and topped with melted cheese. It’s a hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer, which is ideal for busy days. Plus, the combination of flavors is delicious and satisfying, making it a favorite among families.

How to Make King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium white onion, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers (such as RO*TEL®)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ancho chile powder
• 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.25 teaspoon chipotle chile powder
• 1 (3 pound) cooked chicken, torn into shreds or cut into chunks
• 1 (8 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese
• 10 (6 inch) corn tortillas, cut into quarters

Directions:

1. Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sauté onion and bell peppers in the hot oil until warmed through, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl.
3. Add both cans of condensed soup, diced tomatoes with chile peppers, chicken broth, sour cream, cumin, ancho chile powder, oregano, and chipotle chile powder; mix until sauce is well-combined.
4. Spread a few tablespoons of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer with 1/2 of the chicken, 1/2 of the sauce, 1/2 of the Cheddar cheese, and 1/2 of the tortillas.
5. Spread the remaining chicken over the tortillas. Spread all but 1/2 cup of the remaining sauce over the chicken, then top with another 1/3 of the Cheddar, and the remaining tortillas. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup over top, and sprinkle with the remaining Cheddar.
6. Bake casserole in the preheated oven until bubbling, about 40 minutes.
7. Turn on the broiler and broil until the top is golden, 2 to 3 more minutes.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Serve the casserole hot straight from the oven. You can add a fresh salad or some warm corn bread on the side to make the meal complete. It also pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cilantro for added flavor.

How to Store King Ranch Chicken Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Tips to Make King Ranch Chicken Casserole

• Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. If you like it spicier, add more chile powder.
• Add vegetables like corn or black beans for extra texture and flavor.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with cooked beans or extra vegetables. You can also use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a twist on the flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare King Ranch Chicken Casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze leftover casserole?
Absolutely! Make sure to cover it tightly and freeze it. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

3. Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure to use gluten-free tortillas and check the soup labels to ensure they are gluten-free.

Enjoy your delicious King Ranch Chicken Casserole!