Experience the mouth-watering fusion of classic comfort food and innovative culinary art with the King Ranch Chicken recipe. This hearty and comforting dish layers tortillas, cheese, and a deliciously spiced chicken mixture for a dining experience that's second to none. It's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying and flavorful casserole.
Most ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your kitchen like onion, bell peppers, garlic, salt, pepper, cheese, and chicken. However, items like cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn tortillas, and cilantro might need a trip to the supermarket. Remember to choose fresh produce and quality canned goods for the best tasting dish.
King Ranch Chicken Essential Ingredients
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and adding moisture to the dish.
Onion: Provides a sweet and savory flavor base.
Bell peppers: Adds a sweet, slightly bitter note.
Garlic: Gives an aromatic and flavorful boost.
Chili powder: Adds heat and depth to the flavor.
Ground cumin: Gives a warm and earthy flavor.
Cream of chicken soup: Makes the dish creamier and more savory.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds a tangy flavor and slight heat.
Chicken: The main protein of the dish, bringing a hearty element.
Corn tortillas: Used as a layering element, providing texture to the casserole.
Cheese: Melts to give a rich, creamy, and slightly salty flavor.
Roma tomatoes: Adds freshness and a slight tang.
Cilantro leaves: Provides a fresh and citrusy finish.
One reader, Hesther East says:
This King Ranch Chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the layers of tortillas and cheese create a delicious texture. It's a hit with my family every time I make it. Plus, it's easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Highly recommended!
Cooking Techniques for King Ranch Chicken Recipe
How to preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
How to coat the pan: Coat a 9x13-inch pan with cooking spray.
How to cook the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell peppers to the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until tender. Add the garlic to the pan and cook for one more minute. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper.
How to combine the chicken mixture: Add the chili powder, ground cumin, cream of chicken soup, can of tomatoes, and chicken to the pan. Stir until everything is combined and heated through.
How to layer the dish: Line the bottom of the dish with ⅓ of the tortillas. Spoon ⅓ of the chicken mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle ⅓ of the cheese over the chicken mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining shredded cheese.
How to bake: Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
How to serve: Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then top with tomatoes and cilantro. Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!
How To Make King Ranch Chicken
If you’re looking for a super filling meal, our chicken recipe is here to deliver! It’s filled with tasty tortillas and a creamy soup.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tspolive oil
- 1onion,finely diced
- 1½bell peppers,finely diced
- 2tspgarlic,minced
- salt and pepper,to taste
- 1tbspchili powder
- ½tspground cumin
- 20ozcream of chicken soup,2 cans
- 10ozdiced tomatoes with green chilies,1 can, undrained
- 4cupschicken,diced, cooked
- 16corn tortillas,cut into squares
- 4cupscheese,cheddar, Monterey jack, or a blend, shredded
- 2Roma tomatoes,seeded and diced
- 2tbspcilantro leaves,chopped
- cooking spray
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Coat a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray.
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Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat.
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Add the onion and bell peppers to the pan, then let cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until tender.
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Add the garlic to the pan and cook for one more minute. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper.
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Add the chili powder, ground cumin, cream of chicken soup, can of tomatoes and chicken to the pan.
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Stir until everything is combined and heated through.
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Line the bottom of the dish with ⅓ of the tortillas.
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Spoon ⅓ of the chicken mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle ⅓ of the cheese over the chicken mixture.
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Add another layer of tortillas and continue until all the layers have been added, ending with the remaining shredded cheese.
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Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and starting to brown.
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Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then top with tomatoes and cilantro.
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Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 633.09kcal
- Fat: 41.62g
- Saturated Fat: 17.08g
- Trans Fat: 0.85g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 14.46g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.65g
- Carbohydrates: 32.07g
- Fiber: 5.34g
- Sugar: 3.61g
- Protein: 33.76g
- Cholesterol: 122.65mg
- Sodium: 820.23mg
- Calcium: 530.98mg
- Potassium: 511.37mg
- Iron: 2.26mg
- Vitamin A: 314.43µg
- Vitamin C: 37.73mg
Expert Technique Tip for King Ranch Chicken Recipe
When layering your king ranch chicken, ensure that each layer is evenly spread out. This will ensure that every bite has a good balance of tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheese. Also, letting the dish sit for a few minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to set a bit, making it easier to cut into squares.
Time-Saving Tips for Making King Ranch Chicken
Prep ahead: Chop and store the onions, bell peppers, and chicken in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding the chicken yourself.
Layering shortcuts: Instead of layering the tortillas individually, create a casserole-style layering by tearing the tortillas into pieces for quicker assembly.
Double batch: Make a double batch of the King Ranch Chicken and freeze the extra for a quick and convenient meal in the future.
One-pot cooking: Consider using a large skillet or pot to cook the entire dish, reducing the number of dishes to clean up afterward.
Substitute Ingredients For King Ranch Chicken Recipe
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
Bell peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers have a slightly smoky flavor and mild heat, adding a unique twist to the dish.
Cream of chicken soup - Substitute with homemade white sauce: A homemade white sauce made with butter, flour, and chicken broth can replace the cream of chicken soup, providing a fresher and more customizable flavor.
Corn tortillas - Substitute with flour tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used as a substitute for corn tortillas, offering a different texture and flavor to the dish.
Cilantro leaves - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can provide a similar fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish if cilantro is not preferred.
Best Presentation Ideas for King Ranch Chicken
Elevate the plating: When presenting the King Ranch Chicken, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the layers to showcase the different components of the dish.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Consider portion control: Serve the King Ranch Chicken in smaller, elegant portions to encourage guests to savor each bite and appreciate the layers of flavors.
Utilize contrasting textures: Create a balance of textures by ensuring the tortillas are slightly crispy while the cheese is perfectly melted, and the chicken mixture is moist and flavorful.
Highlight the layers: Emphasize the layers of the dish by ensuring they are clearly visible, creating an enticing visual presentation.
Add a touch of sophistication: Consider using a drizzle of crema or a dollop of guacamole to add a touch of elegance and elevate the overall presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the dish is presented with precision and attention to detail.
Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for the freshest and highest quality ingredients to ensure that the flavors shine through and the dish is presented with the utmost care and consideration.
Create a harmonious composition: Arrange the elements of the dish in a way that creates a harmonious and visually appealing composition on the plate.
Consider the plate selection: Choose the appropriate plate or platter to complement the dish, enhancing the overall presentation and creating a stunning visual impact.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe
Oven: An essential appliance for baking, roasting, and broiling dishes to perfection.
Cooking spray: A convenient tool for greasing pans and preventing food from sticking during cooking or baking.
Large pan: Ideal for sautéing, frying, and simmering ingredients, providing ample space for even cooking.
9x13-inch pan: A standard baking dish size suitable for casseroles, lasagnas, and other baked dishes.
Food processor: A versatile kitchen tool used for chopping, pureeing, and blending ingredients with precision.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining and mixing ingredients for various recipes, from salads to batters.
Spatula: A versatile tool for flipping, spreading, and smoothing ingredients during cooking and baking.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring and portioning ingredients for recipes.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for King Ranch Chicken
Let the king ranch chicken cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The casserole will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the king ranch chicken. Wrap the cooled casserole securely in plastic wrap, then cover with a layer of aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Remove the plastic wrap and foil, then reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through and bubbly, about 30-40 minutes.
Alternatively, you can freeze individual portions of the king ranch chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags. This allows you to reheat smaller servings as needed, which is perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
If you plan on making the casserole ahead of time for a party or gathering, assemble the dish as directed but do not bake. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature while preheating the oven, then bake as instructed.
How To Reheat King Ranch Chicken Leftovers
To reheat leftover king ranch chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method helps to retain the moisture in the dish and prevents the tortillas from drying out or becoming too crispy.
Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving of the king ranch chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted. The damp paper towel helps to create steam, which keeps the dish moist and prevents the tortillas from becoming tough.
For a crispy top layer, you can also reheat the king ranch chicken under the broiler. Preheat your broiler and place the dish on the top rack of your oven. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top layer of tortillas is slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on the dish to prevent burning.
If you have a lot of leftover king ranch chicken, you can also freeze it for later. To do this, let the dish cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight, then follow one of the above reheating methods.
Interesting Trivia About King Ranch Chicken
The King Ranch Chicken recipe is named after the King Ranch in Texas, one of the largest ranches in the United States. The dish is a popular Tex-Mex casserole that originated in the 20th century and is known for its rich and flavorful combination of chicken, cheese, and tortillas. It's a staple in many Southern households and is often served at potlucks and family gatherings. The dish's name pays homage to the iconic ranch and its influence on Texan cuisine.
Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooks?
The King Ranch Chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household, as it utilizes common pantry staples and affordable ingredients such as chicken, bell peppers, and corn tortillas. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $20-$25, making it an economical choice. The versatility of this dish also adds value, as it can be enjoyed as a complete meal. Rating: 9/10.
Is King Ranch Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?
The King Ranch Chicken recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to its reliance on processed ingredients and high amounts of saturated fat and sodium. The cream of chicken soup and generous use of cheese contribute to the dish's richness but also add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats. Additionally, the corn tortillas, although a source of fiber, are still a processed carbohydrate.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using low-fat milk, chicken broth, and a small amount of flour to thicken
- Reduce the amount of cheese used and opt for a lower-fat variety, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as diced zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient content and fiber
- Use whole grain tortillas instead of corn tortillas for a healthier carbohydrate option
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken before cooking to reduce the overall fat content of the dish
- Experiment with using Greek yogurt in place of some of the cheese to maintain a creamy texture while cutting back on saturated fat
Editor's Opinion on King Ranch Chicken Recipe
The King Ranch Chicken recipe is a classic Tex-Mex dish that offers a comforting and flavorful combination of ingredients. The layers of tortillas, creamy chicken mixture, and melted cheese create a satisfying and indulgent casserole. The use of bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices adds depth and complexity to the dish, while the finishing touch of fresh tomatoes and cilantro provides a burst of freshness. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for gatherings or family dinners. It's a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual preferences, making it a beloved favorite in many households.
Why trust this King Ranch Chicken Recipe:
This recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients such as chicken, bell peppers, and tomatoes with green chilies. The combination of chili powder and ground cumin adds depth and warmth to the dish. With layers of corn tortillas and a generous amount of cheese, this King Ranch Chicken recipe promises a satisfying and flavorful meal. The addition of cilantro leaves and fresh roma tomatoes on top adds a burst of freshness and color, making it a delicious and trustworthy choice for any home cook.
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