Are you ready to dive into a comforting dish that brings a taste of the South to your dinner table? The King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a savory blend of tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and creamy sauce, all layered with crunchy tortilla chips and topped with melted cheese. This recipe is not only easy to make but is also a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Let’s get started on this delightful casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 18g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 25g protein. This information is based on a serving size of one slice of the casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and milk.
- Add the sautéed onions to the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips at the bottom.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla strips.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, chicken mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute rotisserie chicken for the cooked chicken to save time. For a healthier option, consider using low-fat soups and reduced-fat cheese. Corn tortillas can also be replaced with whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or Mexican rice. For a complete meal, serve with avocado slices, sour cream, or a side of refried beans.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much liquid can make the casserole soggy.
- Not seasoning the chicken mixture can lead to bland flavors.
- Overcooking can dry out the chicken.
- Forgetting to cover the dish may result in burnt edges.
- Skipping the layering process can affect texture.
- Using cold ingredients can result in uneven cooking.
- Not allowing it to rest before serving can make it hard to cut.
Helpful Tips
- Shred the chicken while it’s still warm for easier handling.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to set.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more nutrition.
- Use fresh cilantro as a garnish for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s recommended to thaw it first for even cooking. Cooking times may vary.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level mainly depends on the type of diced tomatoes you use. Opt for mild tomatoes for less heat.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated and served as is or used as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Can I add other ingredients?
Feel free to customize with ingredients like black beans, jalapeños, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
Conclusion
King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that guarantees satisfaction. With its layers of flavor and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole will surely become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite!
King Ranch Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup milk
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 corn tortillas cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and milk.
- Add the sautéed onions to the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips at the bottom.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla strips.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, chicken mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
