Description
Looking for a cozy and satisfying dinner idea? This King Ranch Chicken Casserole is the perfect blend of Tex-Mex comfort and family-friendly flavor. With layers of creamy chicken filling, tender corn tortillas, and golden melted cheese, it’s an easy recipe ideal for weeknight dinners, make-ahead meals, or potluck gatherings. Whether you’re after a quick dinner or classic Southern comfort food, this hearty casserole delivers big on taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 medium onion diced
1 green bell pepper diced
1 red bell pepper diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
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 drained
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
12 small corn tortillas cut into quarters
1/2 cup sour cream optional, for topping
1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
2 green onions sliced, for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and bell peppers for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Add cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix well and stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes.
3. Stir in shredded chicken until evenly coated and heated through, about 2 more minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the bottom with tortilla quarters. Spoon one-third of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle one-third of the cheese. Repeat layers two more times.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. Top with cilantro, green onions, and sour cream if desired before serving.
Notes
Make ahead by assembling a day early and baking when ready.
Always use corn tortillas to prevent sogginess and keep authentic texture.
Freshly shredded cheese melts better and adds richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: easy dinner, quick casserole, Tex-Mex recipe, family dinner ideas, chicken casserole, comforting food ideas