Introduction
When you’re craving a hearty, comforting casserole with a Tex-Mex twist, look no further than King Ranch Chicken Casserole! This dish is loaded with tender rotisserie chicken, savory mushrooms, and cheesy goodness, all baked to perfection. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner to satisfy your family’s hunger, and it’s easy to make too. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that leftover chicken from your Sunday roast. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, this casserole will hit the spot.
Detailed Ingredients
- 🧈 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 🧅 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 🧄 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 🍄 8 ounces sliced white or baby bella mushrooms
- 🌶 ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 🌿 ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- 🌾 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 🍗 ¾ cup chicken broth
- 🥛 ½ cup milk
- 🍦 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 🧂 ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 🧃 ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 🌮 8 taco-sized corn tortillas, softened
- 🍗 3½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 🍅 16 ounces salsa (mild or hot, your choice)
- 🧀 1½ cups grated mild cheddar cheese
Direction
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 12×7-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are softened and golden.
- Add the mushrooms, cayenne, and cumin to the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and release their juices.
- Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute. Then, slowly add the chicken broth, milk, sour cream, salt, and black pepper. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3 minutes.
- In your prepared baking dish, layer the bottom with 4 tortillas. Then, layer the remaining ingredients in this order: half of the shredded chicken, a third of the mushroom mixture, half of the salsa, and half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with the mushroom mixture on top.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and lightly browned on top.
My Story
Growing up, casseroles were always a staple at our family dinners. But this King Ranch Chicken Casserole holds a special place in my heart because of the way it brings together everything I love—cheese, spice, and the satisfying flavors of chicken. I first stumbled upon this dish at a potluck and was instantly hooked! The creamy sauce, the kick from the cayenne, and the crispy tortilla layers make every bite a flavorful experience. It’s a dish that reminds me of home and the kind of comfort food that everyone gathers around. Now, I make it for my family often, and it’s always a hit. It’s the perfect way to make any dinner feel like a celebration.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I use something other than rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! You can use cooked chicken breast, ground chicken, or even turkey if you prefer.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, King Ranch Chicken Casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
Q: Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?
A: If you like extra heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or use a spicier salsa. You could also toss in some chopped jalapeños for an added kick.
Q: What kind of salsa should I use?
A: You can use mild, medium, or hot salsa depending on your preference. If you’re making this for kids or a crowd with different spice levels, mild salsa is a safe bet.
Suggestion
- Add a handful of chopped cilantro on top before serving for extra freshness.
- Swap the cheddar cheese for a spicy pepper jack cheese for a bolder flavor.
- Serve with a side of guacamole and sour cream to add richness.
- Add some chopped bell peppers to the mushroom mixture for extra crunch.
- Try serving the casserole with a side of Mexican rice for a more filling meal.
Conclusion
This King Ranch Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist. The combination of cheesy goodness, savory chicken, and layers of crispy tortillas will make it a crowd favorite at any dinner table. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a family or for meal prepping. Whether you’re looking to feed a hungry crowd or enjoy leftovers for the next few days, this casserole delivers on flavor and convenience. Try it once, and you’ll understand why it’s a classic that everyone will want to come back to. I guarantee it’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes, just like it has for me.
