Easy King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe

This King Ranch Chicken Casserole combines diced chicken, Rotel tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce layered with tortillas. The result is a deliciously creamy and savory dish with just the right amount of spice.

Easy King Ranch Chicken Casserole

I love making this casserole because it’s so flavorful and comforting. It’s quick to assemble, bakes up bubbly and cheesy, and reheats wonderfully. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole always brings everyone back for seconds.

Serve this casserole with Simple Mexican Rice Recipe or pair with Fresh Green Salad Recipe for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Easy King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: Layers of cheese and creamy sauce in every bite.
• Quick and Simple: Great for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares well in advance and reheats perfectly.

Main Ingredients for Easy King Ranch Chicken Casserole

1. Chicken – Diced, cooked chicken provides the main protein base.
2. Cream of Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup – Adds a rich, creamy texture.
3. Rotel Tomatoes – Spicy diced tomatoes with green chilies for flavor and kick.
4. Corn Tortillas – Layered to hold the casserole together.
5. Cheddar Cheese – Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe

Here’s how to make this classic Tex-Mex casserole step by step:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Tip: Non-stick cooking spray or a light brush of oil works well for easy serving.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 can of Rotel diced tomatoes (undrained), 1/2 cup chicken broth, and 1 teaspoon chili powder. Mix until well combined.
   • Optional Add-In: Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or a dash of cumin for extra flavor.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Place a layer of torn corn tortillas at the bottom of the baking dish. Spread half of the diced chicken over the tortillas, followed by a layer of the sauce mixture, and sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
   • Serving Idea: Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of cheese on top for a gooey finish.
4. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Pro Tip: For a golden top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions if desired.
   • Optional Topping: Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa for an extra Tex-Mex touch.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Make it Spicier: Add sliced jalapeños or use hot Rotel.
• Use Tortilla Chips: Substitute corn tortillas with lightly crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
• How to Store: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Tips: Reheat in the oven at 300°F to keep the texture.

Health Benefits of Easy King Ranch Chicken Casserole

While indulgent, this casserole provides a hearty amount of protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheese. Using low-sodium soups and fresh ingredients can make it a balanced, enjoyable meal.

• High in Protein: Chicken provides lean protein for muscle health.
• Calcium-Rich: Cheese and cream soups add calcium, supporting bone health.
• Adaptable for Dietary Needs: Can be made gluten-free with corn tortillas.