Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing casserole that combines the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine in one incredible dish! This King Ranch Chicken Casserole isn't just another recipe – it's a culinary adventure that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine layers of tender shredded chicken, zesty Rotel tomatoes, creamy soups, and melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 12 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, Rotel tomatoes (with juice), cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chopped onion, and chili powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, cut the corn tortillas into strips. You can use kitchen scissors for ease. This will create the base of the casserole.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips on the bottom. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla strips, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortilla strips, chicken mixture, and finish with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning during the initial baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to cut into portions.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños if desired, and enjoy your delicious King Ranch Chicken Casserole!
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even easier preparation and extra flavor boost.
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking to get that perfect golden-brown cheese crust.
- Make sure to drain excess liquid from the Rotel tomatoes to prevent a watery casserole.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like monterey jack or pepper jack for added complexity.
- This casserole freezes beautifully – prepare two and save one for later!
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a spicier version, add diced green chilies or increase the chili powder to taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
