King Ranch Chicken Casserole

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Creamy, cheesy, and packed with Tex-Mex flavor, King Ranch Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping a hearty dish for a potluck, this casserole checks every box. It’s got layers of shredded chicken, a creamy sauce infused with tomatoes and green chiles, and plenty of melted cheddar to pull it all together.

This dish is famous across the South for a reason. It’s indulgent without being over the top and hits that perfect balance of richness, spice, and texture. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in so many households.

Why You’ll Love This King Ranch Chicken Casserole

• It uses pantry staples and rotisserie chicken, making it quick and easy.
• It’s rich, creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
• You can prep it ahead and just bake when you’re ready.
• It feeds a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Leftovers reheat beautifully!

What Makes King Ranch Chicken Casserole So Special?

King Ranch Chicken Casserole is often compared to lasagna, but Tex-Mex style. The layered tortillas act as the “pasta,” while the creamy, spicy chicken filling gives it that southern kick. The name comes from the famous King Ranch in Texas, though there’s no confirmed link between the ranch and the dish itself. What you can count on, though, is a casserole that delivers bold flavor in every bite!

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Ingredients for the King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in building its creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Shredded Chicken – The base of the casserole; use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
• Corn Tortillas – These are layered like lasagna sheets and soak up the sauce beautifully without turning soggy.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides the creamy, savory backbone of the sauce.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – Adds depth and earthiness to balance the flavors.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles (like Rotel) – Brings in a spicy tang and cuts through the richness.
• Chopped Onion – Sauteed until soft, it adds a mild sweetness and depth.
• Garlic Powder & Chili Powder – For seasoning and that essential Tex-Mex flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melty, sharp, and golden on top, it’s the crown jewel of this casserole.
• Butter or Oil – To sauté the onions and boost flavor.

How To Make the King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chiles, garlic powder, chili powder, and the sautéed onions.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Start with a layer of torn corn tortillas at the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of shredded chicken, then a generous scoop of the creamy sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes before serving to let everything set and the flavors meld.

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Serving and Storing King Ranch Chicken Casserole

This King Ranch Chicken Casserole is incredibly satisfying and serves approximately 8 people, making it perfect for large families or potlucks. For serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well – wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave single portions for a quick meal.

What to Serve With King Ranch Chicken Casserole?

1. Fresh Green Salad

A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.

2. Mexican Rice

Flavored rice adds another layer of Tex-Mex flair to your plate.

3. Black Beans or Refried Beans

These provide hearty, protein-rich sides that complement the creamy main dish.

4. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips

Crunchy and creamy elements that pair beautifully with the casserole’s textures.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Try zucchini, bell peppers, or corn roasted with olive oil and chili flakes.

6. Salsa or Pico de Gallo

Adds brightness and acidity to contrast the creamy base of the casserole.

7. Sweet Cornbread

For a Southern touch, serve with a slice of buttery cornbread.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven.

2. What type of chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken is ideal for both flavor and convenience. You can also use leftover baked or boiled chicken breasts or thighs, shredded well.

3. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Corn tortillas are traditional and hold up better, but flour tortillas can work if that’s what you have on hand. Just note they may get a bit softer.

4. How spicy is this dish?
It has a mild kick thanks to the diced tomatoes with green chiles, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. Adjust the heat by using mild or hot Rotel, or add jalapeños if you like it hotter.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Portion the leftovers into airtight containers or wrap the entire dish tightly in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra cheese? Try it with flour tortillas? Swap in turkey instead of chicken?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

For more easy dinner recipes and meal inspiration, check out my Pinterest board: Life With Livia on Pinterest.

Conclusion

King Ranch Chicken Casserole is that cozy, family-friendly dish you’ll turn to again and again. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding guests or just want a comforting weeknight dinner, this casserole is a winner every time.

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