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Cozy King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe Easy Homemade from Scratch

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A comforting and hearty King Ranch Chicken Casserole made from scratch with fresh ingredients, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy tortilla layers. Perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience)
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (mix of red and green)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Ro*Tel)
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 10 small corn tortillas, cut into strips
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cut the 10 corn tortillas into thin strips, about ½ inch wide. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers, sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, heavy cream, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
  5. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the creamy sauce and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. In your baking dish, spread a thin layer of the chicken mixture on the bottom. Sprinkle a layer of tortilla strips over it. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
  7. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden and the casserole is heated through.
  8. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes out of the oven before serving to help it set.

Notes

If sauce is too thin, add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water during simmering to thicken. Watch cheese near end of baking to avoid burning. Let casserole rest before serving for easier slicing. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut. For lighter options, substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream or use flour tortillas for softer texture. Variations include vegetarian, spicy, low-carb, and dairy-free adaptations.

Nutrition

Keywords: King Ranch Chicken Casserole, homemade casserole, chicken casserole, Tex-Mex casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, creamy chicken casserole

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/cozy-king-ranch-chicken-casserole-recipe-easy-homemade-from-scratch/