King Ranch Chicken Casserole

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Golden, creamy, and full of Tex-Mex flavor, King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a Southern comfort food classic that layers tender chicken, melty cheese, spicy tomatoes, and corn tortillas into a warm, baked masterpiece. It’s the kind of recipe that brings the whole family running to the dinner table, perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you crave cozy and satisfying food.

This dish gets its name from the famous King Ranch in Texas, though it doesn’t have a direct link to the ranch itself. Instead, it’s become a beloved staple throughout the South, thanks to its irresistible flavor and easy, crowd-pleasing nature. With each bite, you get a creamy and cheesy blend with just the right touch of spice.

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What Makes This Chicken Casserole So Comforting?

It’s all about the layers and the bold flavor combo. The richness of the cream of chicken soup mixed with diced tomatoes with green chiles creates a creamy base that hugs every piece of shredded chicken. Add in those slightly softened corn tortillas, and you’ve got texture. Finish it off with a generous amount of cheese baked to bubbly perfection, and you’ll see why this recipe never goes out of style.

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Ingredients for the King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken, shredded. It’s the heart of the casserole, offering tender bites in every forkful.

Corn Tortillas: Unlike flour tortillas, corn adds a slightly nutty texture that holds up better in baking.

Cream of Chicken Soup: This gives the casserole its signature creamy richness.

Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds another layer of earthy flavor that deepens the taste.

Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles (like Rotel): For a bit of spice and tang.

Chopped Onion & Green Bell Pepper: These aromatics provide texture and a pop of color.

Garlic Powder & Chili Powder: Boost the flavor profile with a touch of warmth and depth.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Because no Southern casserole is complete without gooey, melted cheese.

Olive Oil or Butter: Used to sauté the vegetables.

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How To Make the King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Saute the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter and cook chopped onions and bell peppers until they’re soft and fragrant. This base adds big flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sauteed veggies, Rotel tomatoes, garlic powder, and chili powder. Stir until everything is well coated.

Step 3: Layer It Up

In a greased baking dish, begin with a layer of torn corn tortillas. Follow with a layer of the chicken mixture, then a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

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How to Serve and Store This Comfort Classic

This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley. Leftovers keep beautifully and may taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

To store: Let the dish cool completely, then refrigerate covered for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the whole dish in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

To freeze: Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

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What to Serve With King Ranch Chicken Casserole?

1. Tex-Mex Rice

A simple side of Spanish or Mexican rice balances the richness of the casserole.

2. Refried Beans

Creamy beans are the perfect earthy counterpart.

3. Cornbread

Add a Southern touch and some sweetness with buttery cornbread.

4. Jalapeno Poppers

If you’re serving guests, these are a spicy and crispy starter.

5. Creamy Guacamole

Fresh avocado dip adds cool contrast to the warm, cheesy bake.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Try Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes for a savory-sweet twist.

7. Green Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

A light salad brings freshness and acidity to the plate.

8. Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy and hearty, these Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a dreamy side.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you’re all about cozy dinners baked in one dish, try these family-approved favorites:

• This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is extra creamy and perfect for brunch or dinner.
• French Onion Beef Rice Casserole is full of rich, beefy flavor.
• Runza Casserole if you’re craving something hearty and Midwestern.
• Add a twist with Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole — flaky and cheesy!
• Or go coastal with The Creamiest Crab Casserole for seafood lovers.

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Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe some chipotle cream sauce or even a layer of black beans? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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