Texas Specialties
Over the holidays I visited my brother in Texas. I’m always enamored by the vast variety of regional specialties found in Texas. It seems Texas pride reaches into every element of life, especially local dishes. My brother introduced me to a Texas chicken casserole I had never tried before, King Ranch Chicken Casserole.
History Of Creamy King Ranch Chicken Casserole
King Ranch, one of the largest and most historically innovative ranches in the world, was founded in the 1800s by a runaway, Richard King, who made a name for himself later in life in both the steamboat industry and ranching. These days many things are named after the epic King Ranch, from lavish leather car interiors and furniture to creamy casserole recipes. I’m not sure there’s a final word on whether Texas King Ranch Casserole actually originated at King Ranch, or whether it’s just a popular Texan title to tag on. Either way, this ultra-creamy enchilada-style chicken casserole is a massive hit with anyone who tastes it. Epic in its own right.
Easy King Ranch Chicken Casserole Made From Scratch
When researching King Ranch Chicken Casserole, I found most recipes include condensed cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup. However, I am not really a fan of adding processed condensed soup to any recipe. I find you can get better flavor and texture with fresh ingredients. So I started from scratch with sour cream, green chiles, and tomatillo salsa verde, then tossed it with fresh cilantro and chopped chicken. The result is a super silky casserole base with a hint of spice. This King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a wonderful freezer make-ahead meal, and is also handy for potlucks and tailgating!
Chicken Casserole Ingredients
The creamy, savory chicken filling is layered in a casserole dish with shredded cheese and torn tortillas, then baked until golden and bubbly. The rich sauce saturates the tortillas, forming tender decadent layers of spicy, cheesy goodness.
Here are the wonderfully simple ingredients you’ll need:Chopped Cooked
Chicken – You can use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken to make this recipe even easier. You can even us leftover holiday turkey! Sour Cream Onion – peeled and chopped Garlic – peeled and minced Butter Jarred Tomatillo Salsa Verde – your choice of mild or hot Chopped Green Chiles – 13.5 oz can Chopped Cilantro Ground Cumin Shredded Mexican Style Cheese White Corn Tortillas
How to Make the BEST King Ranch Chicken Casserole
I think my Texan friends would approve of this Easy King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe. It has a definitive Tex-Mex flavor, an overall luxurious quality, and can be thrown together in minutes to feed the masses! One casserole is enough to yield 16 deliciously satisfying servings.
Here’s how to easily put together this scrumptious dish:
My brother would tell you it’s best with Cholula, a popular hot sauce in Texas, doused over the top.
Get The Full Texas King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe + VIDEO Below!
What Should I Serve With Creamy Chicken Casserole?
You can serve this casserole completely on its own for an easy and filling meal. Or, serve it with a side of Spanish rice, some extra tortillas and an easy tomato salad!
Can This Casserole Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! I love making this chicken casserole a few days before I am planning to enjoy it. Simply allow it to cool completely before wrapping, and keep it in the freezer for up to three months or in the fridge for up to four days. If frozen, allow the casserole to thaw completely before reheating. Bake uncovered in the oven at 350 degrees F for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly hot.
Is This Casserole Gluten Free, Low Carb and/or Keto-Friendly?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure you double-check the ingredients list for your corn tortillas and shredded cheese: some brands use gluten-based preservatives. You can easily make this casserole keto by substituting the white corn tortillas for a keto-friendly tortilla made with coconut, almond and/or cassava flour.
Looking for More Favorite One-Pan Recipes?
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