If you’re in search of a dinner idea that’s both scrumptious and simple to make, look no further than the King Ranch Casserole! This dish is a creamy blend of chicken, cheese, and tortilla chips, which your family will surely ask for again and again.
What is King Ranch Chicken?
King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a crowd-pleaser. With its mix of tender chicken, velvety sauce, tortilla chips, and loads of cheese, it’s simply irresistible. The dish features tasty Tex-Mex flavors and a satisfying texture that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Despite being named after the King Ranch in Texas, there’s no confirmed link between the recipe and the ranch. The casserole reminds me of a comforting combo of chicken nachos and a cozy casserole, making it a heavenly comfort food.
Ingredients Needed
This casserole recipe uses pantry staples to create an affordable dinner that everyone will love. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- Olive Oil for sautéing the veggies.
- Bell Peppers (one green and one red) for color, flavor, and texture.
- Yellow Onion, sautéed with the peppers for a savory flavor.
- Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken.
- Fire Roasted Tomatoes for a deep flavor.
- Green Chiles for a slight kick of heat.
- Canned Soup: A mix of cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup for a creamy sauce.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper for bold flavor.
- Cheese: A blend of cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese for a cheesy, melty goodness.
- Corn Tortilla Chips for added texture.
Preparation Steps
This casserole is easy to assemble. Here’s how you can make it:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Heat oil in a skillet, add bell peppers and onion. Sauté until tender.
- In a large bowl, mix together the sautéed veggies, shredded chicken, tomatoes, green chiles, soups, and spices.
- In a separate bowl, blend the cheddar and pepper jack cheeses.
- Layer the bottom of the baking dish with tortilla chips, then add half of the chicken mixture and half of the cheese mixture.
- Repeat these layers once more.
- Bake the casserole until golden and bubbly, around 20-30 minutes. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations
You can make this dish spicier by adding a diced jalapeño and an extra teaspoon of chili powder. Some people prefer to use tortillas instead of chips. After baking, let the casserole rest for at least ten minutes for flavors to meld and the dish to set. For a complete meal, serve this with corn on the cob, refried beans, and/or Mexican rice.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, reheated in the oven or microwave. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months.
Other Casserole Recipes
If you’re in the mood for more casserole ideas, try Cowboy Casserole, Stuffed Pepper Casserole, Sloppy Joe Casserole, or Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole. They’re all easy to make, comforting, and sure to be a hit with your family.