Description
Hearty King Ranch Chicken brings Texan comfort to dinner tables with layers of cheesy, spicy goodness. Creamy tortillas and tender chicken create a southwestern classic that will satisfy cravings and warm souls.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Poultry:
- 2.5 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup chicken broth
Cheese and Dairy:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 ounces) cream of chicken soup
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- 10 corn tortillas
- 1 small onion
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or butter
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sliced avocado
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a large rectangular baking dish to ensure easy food release and prevent sticking.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until they become translucent and softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Create a flavorful sauce by whisking together chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with chilies, and a blend of spices including chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Construct the first layer in the baking dish by placing torn tortilla pieces across the bottom, covering the entire surface evenly.
- Distribute shredded chicken uniformly over the tortilla base, ensuring consistent coverage.
- Spread the sautéed vegetable mixture across the chicken layer, creating a colorful and textured foundation.
- Pour half of the prepared sauce over the layered ingredients, allowing it to seep between the components.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese to create a melty, golden top layer.
- Repeat the layering process: tortillas, chicken, vegetables, remaining sauce, and another generous cheese coating.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese transforms into a golden-brown, crispy surface.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and casserole to set.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced jalapeños before serving.
Notes
- Swap corn tortillas with gluten-free alternatives for celiac or gluten-sensitive diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.
- Use low-sodium broths and soups to control salt intake, making the recipe heart-friendly and suitable for those monitoring sodium consumption.
- Incorporate extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini to boost nutritional value and add vibrant colors and textures to the casserole.
- Prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating overnight, then bake when ready to serve, perfect for meal prepping and busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 396 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 748 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 98 mg