Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort? Look no further than the Spicy King Ranch Chicken Casserole! This mouthwatering recipe combines tender shredded chicken, zesty tomatoes, and gooey cheese, all layered with crispy corn tortillas for an irresistible meal that will have your family begging for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering, this casserole is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Dive into this recipe and discover why it’s a beloved favorite in American kitchens!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the liquid), chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Once the onion and bell pepper are cooked, add them to the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the corn tortilla strips on the bottom. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla strips, and then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, chicken mixture, and finish with the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the casserole from drying out during baking.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set a bit.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired, and enjoy your Spicy King Ranch Chicken Casserole!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can shred the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the casserole.
- Customize Your Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, opt for regular diced tomatoes instead of those with green chilies. For extra heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other varieties like pepper jack for an extra kick or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
- Layering Technique: Ensure even distribution by carefully layering the ingredients. This will help each bite deliver the perfect combination of flavors.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t forget to top your casserole with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving. It adds a vibrant touch and enhances the dish’s flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
