King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe

King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a Tex-Mex comfort food favorite that combines corn tortillas, chicken, onions, peppers, tomatoes, and cheddar jack cheese in a creamy chicken sauce. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is not only flavorful but also easy to make, coming together in about 30 minutes. Made in one ovenproof skillet, it’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 small jalapeno, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 pinches ground cayenne pepper
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• 6 (6-inch) white or yellow corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch segments
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar jack cheese or any Mexican blend
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers, onion, and jalapeno. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Reduce the heat to low, add minced garlic, and cook for an additional minute, stirring continuously. Remove the vegetables to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Making the Sauce

3. Prepare the roux: Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium-low heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes while whisking continuously.
4. Add the broth and spices: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, then add ground cumin, chili powder, and ground cayenne pepper. Season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Reduce to a simmer and cook until the sauce is slightly thickened, approximately 3 minutes.

Assembling the Casserole

5. Combine the ingredients: Stir in the cut corn tortillas, cooked chicken, and drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Top with cheese and bake: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Finishing Touches

7. Add the vegetables and cilantro: After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the cooked bell peppers, onion, and jalapeno on top. Place the skillet back in the oven for 2-3 minutes to warm through. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips for the Best King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Ingredient Tips

• Vegetable Preparation: Cut your vegetables into small bite-sized pieces and mince your garlic and jalapeno finely. This ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.
• Tortilla Choice: Both white and yellow corn tortillas work equally well in this recipe, so choose based on your preference.
• Jalapeno Selection: Pick jalapenos that are smooth and green all over, as they tend to be milder. Remove the veins and seeds before mincing to reduce heat. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling jalapenos to avoid irritation.

Cooking Tips

• Cheese Options: Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, and Colby Jack cheeses all work well in this casserole.
• Sensitive Palate: If you or someone you’re cooking for has a sensitive palate, you can omit the jalapeno or substitute it with a small can of green chilies.
• Preparation: This recipe moves fairly quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped and within reach before you start cooking.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the dish cool slightly after preparing but before baking. Cover with two layers of plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

FAQs

What is King Ranch Chicken?

King Ranch Chicken is a Tex-Mex casserole named after the famous King Ranch in Texas. It typically includes chicken, corn tortillas, peppers, tomatoes, and cheese in a creamy sauce.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well. Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, and Colby Jack are all great options.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make the dish spicier, you can add more jalapeno or use a hotter variety of pepper. You can also increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I serve with King Ranch Chicken Casserole?

King Ranch Chicken Casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as Mexican rice, refried beans, a simple green salad, or even tortilla chips and salsa.

By following this detailed recipe and tips, you can easily make a delicious King Ranch Chicken Casserole that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with your family and friends!