Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Layer half of the corn tortillas on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, tearing them to fit if necessary.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture.
- Repeat layers with remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and shredded cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve hot as a comforting main dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
- Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
FAQs:
- What is King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
- King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a classic Tex-Mex dish that layers tortillas with shredded chicken, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and cheese, all bound together with a creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and spices. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, creating a comforting and flavorful casserole.
- How do I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
- To make King Ranch Chicken Casserole, start by cooking and shredding chicken breasts. In a skillet, sauté diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies and season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and a bit of chicken broth or milk. Layer tortilla strips in a baking dish, followed by the chicken mixture, sauce, and shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Can I prepare King Ranch Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, King Ranch Chicken Casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, then bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- What can I serve with King Ranch Chicken Casserole?
- King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a complete meal on its own but pairs well with additional Tex-Mex sides. Serve it with a side of Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad with avocado and lime dressing. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor.
- Can I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole with leftover cooked chicken?
- Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to make King Ranch Chicken Casserole. Simply shred the cooked chicken and use it in place of cooking and shredding raw chicken breasts. This is a convenient way to use up leftover chicken and speeds up the preparation process.
King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. Its layers of flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite in Tex-Mex cuisine.