This King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a classic Tex-Mex dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for a comforting family meal! Imagine layers of tender tortillas, shredded chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and a generous topping of melted cheese. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a satisfying and delicious casserole that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Cheesy: The combination of shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that’s perfect for any Tex-Mex lover.
Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is always a hit with both kids and adults. It’s perfect for potlucks, game day gatherings, or any occasion where you want to serve a crowd-pleasing dish.
Versatile: Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or beans, or use a different type of cheese for the topping.

Ingredients

Olive oil and butter: Used to sauté the vegetables and create a flavorful base for the sauce.
Onion and red bell pepper: Diced and adds a savory base and sweetness.
Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
Cream of chicken soup: Adds a creamy base and enhances the flavor of the sauce.
Chicken stock: Adds flavor and thins the sauce to the desired consistency.
Cooked and shredded chicken: Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Chili powder, cumin, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt: A blend of spices that adds depth and complexity to the flavor.
Corn tortillas: Used to layer the casserole and create a hearty base.
Grated cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp and cheesy flavor to the topping.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Sauté Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, and cook for 7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, or until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Stir in the cream of chicken soup, ½ cup of chicken stock, chili powder, cumin, pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix in the shredded chicken and stir to coat. Bring the mixture to a simmer and remove from the heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the remaining ½ cup of chicken stock into the prepared baking dish. Tear 4 tortillas in half and arrange them evenly on the bottom of the dish. Spread ⅓ of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Repeat this layering process two more times, using all of the chicken mixture and all 12 tortillas.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
Don’t overcook the vegetables: Cook the vegetables just until softened to prevent them from becoming mushy in the casserole.
Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the casserole.
Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

This King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Sour Cream and Guacamole: Top with a dollop of sour cream and guacamole for extra flavor and creaminess.
Salsa: Serve with salsa for an extra kick of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

This King Ranch Chicken Casserole is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Make ahead and freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of tortilla? Yes, you can! Flour tortillas or a mix of flour and corn tortillas would also work well in this recipe.

2. Can I add other ingredients to the filling? Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, chopped onions, or black beans.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the chicken and use a plant-based chicken substitute or add more vegetables, such as lentils, black beans, or chopped mushrooms.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese? Definitely! You can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.

This King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic Tex-Mex dish. With its flavorful filling, cheesy topping, and versatile serving options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!