King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Name: King Ranch Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 poblano pepper, chopped; 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 cups crushed tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

Published: November 13, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This King Ranch Chicken Casserole

This incredible King Ranch Chicken Casserole transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious King Ranch Chicken Casserole:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Green Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color—look for ones that are firm and shiny.
Poblano Peppers: These add a mild heat; roast them for extra flavor if you’re feeling fancy!
Onion: A medium onion brings sweetness and depth; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.

For the Sauce:

Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the secret weapon; it adds creaminess and richness without any fuss.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream elevates the richness and balances flavors perfectly.
Tortilla Chips: Use crushed tortilla chips to create a delightful topping—crunch is key here!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious King Ranch Chicken Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray—trust me; it’ll save you from some serious scrubbing later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté your boneless chicken breasts until they’re cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Shred them using two forks while they’re still warm; it’s like therapy!

Step 3: Sauté Those Veggies

In that same skillet (don’t wash it; we want those flavors), throw in chopped onions, bell peppers, and poblanos. Sauté until they’re tender—around five minutes should do. Your kitchen should start smelling heavenly by now!

Step 4: Mix It All Up

In a large bowl, mix together your shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of your cheese. Stir until everything is nicely combined—this is where the magic happens.

Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread half of your crushed tortilla chips on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Pour half of the chicken mixture over it. Repeat with another layer of chips and then top with remaining chicken mixture. Finish by sprinkling the rest of your cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Pop that beauty into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Transfer this masterpiece to plates and drizzle with some extra sour cream or salsa for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—the ultimate comfort food! Serve with a side salad or some fresh guacamole for an extra kick! Enjoy each bite as you reminisce about family gatherings or maybe even plan for another spicy adventure!

You Must Know About King Ranch Chicken Casserole

This showstopping King Ranch Chicken Casserole delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your King Ranch Chicken Casserole, start by searing the chicken to lock in juicy flavor. While it’s sizzling, prepare your sauce and chop the veggies. Assemble everything in layers for maximum flavor infusion.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your King Ranch Chicken Casserole! Swap out the chicken for shredded beef or turkey, use different types of cheese, or add black beans for extra protein. Spice it up with jalapeños or a sprinkle of cumin for that extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover King Ranch Chicken Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until hot throughout, or microwave individual servings until warmed.

Chef's Helpful Tips for King Ranch Chicken Casserole

This professional-quality King Ranch Chicken Casserole relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Every time I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole, my friends rave about it! One time, my neighbor asked if I could make a double batch because his kids couldn’t get enough. It’s a hit every single time!

FAQs

What is King Ranch Chicken Casserole?

King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines shredded chicken, cheese, tortillas, and a creamy sauce. Originating from the famous King Ranch in Texas, this casserole offers a perfect blend of Tex-Mex flavors. It’s typically made with ingredients like cream of mushroom soup and diced tomatoes, layered with corn tortillas. This meal is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a popular choice for family dinners or potlucks.

How do I make King Ranch Chicken Casserole healthier?

To make King Ranch Chicken Casserole healthier, consider using whole wheat tortillas instead of regular ones. You can also substitute low-fat cheese and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein. Incorporating more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the layers will enhance the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, using grilled or baked chicken instead of fried can help reduce overall fat content.

Can I prepare King Ranch Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare King Ranch Chicken Casserole ahead of time! Simply assemble the casserole as directed and cover it well with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake it, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

What do I serve with King Ranch Chicken Casserole?

King Ranch Chicken Casserole pairs well with a variety of sides. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch and balances out the richness of the casserole. You can also serve it with Mexican-style rice or refried beans for a complete meal. For those who enjoy heat, consider offering jalapeños or hot sauce on the side. Cornbread is another classic option that complements this dish beautifully.

Conclusion

In summary, King Ranch Chicken Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that combines rich Tex-Mex flavors with comforting ingredients. It’s versatile enough to adapt to your dietary preferences and can be prepared ahead of time for convenience. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or enjoy it on a weeknight, this casserole is sure to impress everyone at the table. Try making your own King Ranch Chicken Casserole today for an unforgettable meal!

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