Cheesy King Ranch Chicken Casserole: A Texas-Style Comfort Classic

King Ranch Chicken Casserole

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty king ranch casserole, this classic King Ranch Chicken Casserole will become your go-to for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.

• ⭐ Rating: 4.5 stars (623 reviews)
• 🕒 Prep Time: 30 minutes
• ⏲️ Cook Time: 45 minutes
• 🍽️ Servings: 8 hearty portions

Ingredients for King Ranch Casserole

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 10 corn tortillas, cut into strips
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add vegetable oil. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth.
4. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until flavors meld.
5. Layer half of the tortilla strips in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle with one cup each of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
7. Add another layer of tortillas and top with the remaining chicken mixture. Finish with the rest of the cheeses.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to set the layers.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flair.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake straight from the fridge—add 10 extra minutes.
• Spice It Up: Stir in chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for a fiery twist.
• Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with black beans or roasted vegetables for a meatless version.
• Cheese Pull: Mix in pepper jack cheese for an extra gooey, spicy melt.

Enjoy this irresistible king ranch casserole with your favorite sides—cornbread, guacamole, or a crisp green salad make perfect partners.

Recipe credit: AllRecipes