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King Ranch Chicken Casserole


  • Author: emma
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: No Restrictions

Description

A comforting casserole made with layers of tortillas, chicken, and a creamy sauce, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups chicken broth or stock
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 4 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken
  • 12 corn tortillas, quartered
  • 8 ounces (2 cups) grated cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
  • 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chiles), drained
  • 1 jalapeño, seeds and membranes removed and finely diced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cooking until it becomes fragrant.
  3. Mix in the flour, stirring constantly for about a minute.
  4. Whisk in the milk and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Stir in the cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about five minutes.
  7. Combine the cooked chicken, drained Rotel, and diced jalapeño in a large bowl.
  8. Toss everything together with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  9. Layer one-third of the quartered corn tortillas on the bottom of a baking dish.
  10. Pour one-third of the creamy sauce over the tortillas, followed by half of the chicken mixture and a sprinkle of cheese.
  11. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
  12. Finish with the last layer of tortillas topped with the remaining creamy sauce and cheese.
  13. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is gooey and bubbling.

Notes

Consider toasting the tortillas for added flavor and texture. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk alternatives.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: King Ranch, Chicken Casserole, Comfort Food, Family Recipe