Name: Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 12 corn tortillas, torn into quarters; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

The Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken recipe is a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that combines layers of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. This guide will walk you through each step to create this classic Tex-Mex casserole, ensuring you achieve culinary success every time.

What is Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken?

The King Ranch Chicken casserole is a beloved Tex-Mex dish named after the famous King Ranch in Texas. This hearty casserole features layers of shredded chicken, tortillas, cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce made from a blend of tomatoes, green chilies, and spices. It’s a staple in Southern cuisine, known for its comforting and robust flavors.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Comfort Food at Its Best: Perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients.
Versatile: Can be adapted to suit various dietary needs.

Leftover Friendly: It tastes even better the next day.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults.
Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for meal prep and busy weeknights.

Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken

3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup chicken broth

1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

12 corn tortillas, torn into quarters
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

What Ingredients Can I Replace Or Substitute While Making King Ranch Chicken?

Chicken: Substitute with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.

Cheddar Cheese: Use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend cheese for a different flavor profile.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Substitute with cream of celery or cream of mushroom soup for a similar creamy texture.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Use plain diced tomatoes and add chopped green chilies separately to control the heat level.

Corn Tortillas: Replace with flour tortillas or low-carb tortillas if preferred.
Green Bell Pepper: Use red or yellow bell peppers for a slightly sweeter taste.
Chicken Broth: Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Olive Oil: Use vegetable oil or avocado oil as an alternative cooking oil.

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft.

Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Layer the ingredients: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the torn tortillas, half of the shredded chicken, half of the sautéed vegetables, half of the sauce mixture, and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken

Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad balances the rich flavors.
Mexican Rice: Complements the Tex-Mex theme.

Refried Beans: Adds extra protein and texture.
Guacamole: Offers a creamy, refreshing contrast.
Sour Cream: Adds a cool, tangy element.

Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience and added flavor.
Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the dish’s taste.

Even Layers: Ensure even distribution for consistent flavors.
Cheese Choices: Mix cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for depth.
Spice it Up: Add jalapeños for extra heat.

Rest Before Serving: Allows the casserole to set and flavors to meld.

Variations of Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken

Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with black beans and corn.
Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or omit them entirely.

Gluten-Free: Ensure all canned ingredients are gluten-free and use corn tortillas.
Spicy Twist: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.
Creamy Upgrade: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce.

Extra Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.

Storing Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken: Best Practices

Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool before storing.
Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to preserve freshness.

Label and Date: Keep track of storage time.
Fridge Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze for Later: Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.

Reheating Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken: Best Practices

Thaw Overnight: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Oven Method: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Microwave Option: For quick reheating, use the microwave, but be aware the texture may change slightly.

Cover While Reheating: Cover with foil to retain moisture.
Stir Occasionally: Ensure even reheating.
Check Temperature: Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g

Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg

Sodium: 800 mg
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 5 g

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FAQs

What is the best way to shred chicken for King Ranch Chicken?

The best way to shred chicken for King Ranch Chicken is to use two forks to pull apart the cooked chicken breasts. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed to quickly shred the chicken.

How can I make King Ranch Chicken casserole spicier?

To make King Ranch Chicken casserole spicier, add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper to your taste.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas in King Ranch Chicken?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas in King Ranch Chicken. However, keep in mind that corn tortillas provide a more authentic Tex-Mex flavor and texture.

How long should I let the King Ranch Chicken casserole rest before serving?

You should let the King Ranch Chicken casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Why is it called King Ranch Chicken?

The dish is called King Ranch Chicken because it is named after the famous King Ranch in Texas. Despite the name, there is no direct connection between the recipe and the ranch itself. The name likely reflects the Tex-Mex roots and hearty nature of the dish, reminiscent of the rich cultural heritage of Texas.

Who is the ranch cooking lady?

The “ranch cooking lady” commonly refers to Ree Drummond, also known as The Pioneer Woman. She is a well-known food blogger, author, and television personality who shares recipes inspired by her life on a ranch in Oklahoma. Her approachable and comforting cooking style has made her a favorite among home cooks.

Final Words

The Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken casserole is a timeless, hearty dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and cheesy goodness of this classic Tex-Mex delight!