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A cheesy, golden-brown King Ranch Casserole in a baking dish, ready to serve.

Best King Ranch Casserole

This creamy, cheesy King Ranch Casserole is the ultimate Tex-Mex comfort food, featuring layers of shredded chicken, corn tortillas, and a flavorful sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Tex-Mex
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing spoon
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken Rotisserie chicken works great for a shortcut!
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz.
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies 10 oz (like Rotel).
  • 1 cup chicken broth Helps thin out the sauce.
  • 1 tsp chili powder Adds mild heat and smoky flavor.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Enhances the overall flavor.
  • ½ tsp cumin Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
  • 8 corn tortillas Cut into quarters.
  • 2 cups shredded cheese Cheddar or Mexican blend.
  • ½ cup diced onion Adds texture and flavor.
  • 2 tbsp butter For sautéing the onions.

Optional Toppings

  • chopped fresh cilantro For garnish.
  • sour cream For serving.
  • sliced jalapeños For a spicy kick.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  • Stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth.
  • Add the chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin, stirring until everything is well combined and warmed through.
  • Spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce on the bottom of your baking dish.
  • Arrange half of the corn tortillas evenly over the sauce.
  • Spread half of the shredded chicken on top of the tortillas.
  • Pour half of the remaining sauce over the chicken.
  • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over everything.
  • Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, chicken, sauce, and cheese.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a layer of sautéed bell peppers or green chilies.
Keyword Cheesy Casserole, Comfort Food, King Ranch Casserole