Creamy King Ranch Chicken Casserole
When you hear the phrase “King Ranch” do you think of A) an iconic location, B) leather truck interiors, or C) cozy Tex Mex? For me, it’s C all the way. King Ranch Chicken Casserole is a classic Tex Mex favorite named after the historic King Ranch in Kingsville, Texas. It’s a recipe layered with tortillas, creamy sauce, cheese, chiles, and chicken, baked into a golden bubbly casserole. Most recipes for this casserole call for canned cream of chicken soup. However, several years ago we posted a made-from-scratch version that has become the most popular King Ranch Chicken casserole on the web… Without canned soup on the ingredients list.
King Ranch Chicken Dip Recipe
However, people (meaning me, our friends, and our readers) can’t seem to get enough of this ultra-comforting chicken casserole. So today I thought I’d share a spin-off party recipe… King Ranch Chicken Dip! This simple creamy dip takes less time to prepare than the classic casserole and is just as enticing. It includes all the best components of the traditional king ranch casserole, minus the tortillas. Instead use, crispy tortilla chips to scoop it up at your next game day, potluck, or party!
King Ranch Chicken Dip Ingredients
To make this amazing dip you only need seven well-selected ingredients!
Shredded chicken – This is a great way to use up leftovers in the fridge. You can also use a rotisserie chicken for the market.Shredded cheese – Select a Mexican blend of 3-4 cheeses that melt well.Sour cream – To provide a creamy base. Full fat is best. Tomatilla salsa verde – Use good jarred salsa or make this salsa from scratch.Chopped green chiles – Canned. Select mild or hot, based on your palate. Ranch dressing dip mix – Our recipe does not include powdered dip mix. And the word ranch in the title has nothing to do with ranch dressing. However, a dip mix packet is a great way to add herbs and zesty seasoning in one simple ingredient.Ground cumin – For a touch of smoky essence!
Low Carb (Keto) King Ranch Chicken Dip
The fact that the tortillas are removed from the casserole in order to make it a scoopable dip, means this king ranch dip recipe is ketogenic-friendly. I love it when comfort food and dietary restrictions aline! Consider using low carb scoopers like raw vegetable slices, baked veggie chips, low carb cauliflower crackers, or keto crackers instead of tortilla chips. You can even make “tortilla chips” out of baked shredded cheese and almond flour.
How To Make King Ranch Chicken Dip
You are going to love how simple this recipe is to make. Ready?
Get the Full (Printable) King Ranch Chicken Dip Recipe Below
King Ranch Chicken Dip Q&A
Is this recipe Gluten Free?
Yes, our King Ranch Chicken Dip is naturally gluten free! Just be sure to double-check the ingredients list for your shredded cheese and ranch dressing packet, as some brands use gluten-based preservatives. Also, most tortilla chips are made with 100% ground corn, meaning they as well are gluten free and can be enjoyed for dipping. But again, be sure to check the packaging!
Can this Dip be made in advance?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for making a few days ahead of your festivities. After initially cooking, allow to cool completely before covering with plastic wrap and storing in the fridge. Then simply reheat in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
Is King Ranch Chicken Dip freezer-friendly?
Because of the dairy, I would not recommending freezing this dip.
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