1can10 oz Ro-Tel (diced tomatoes with green chiles)
2cupssharp cheddar cheeseshredded
1cupchicken broth
1teaspoonchili powder
1/2teaspooncumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnishoptional
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your large baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents the tortillas from sticking to the bottom during baking.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, mix the two soups together. Add the chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin. Whisk everything until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add the Veggies and Tomatoes
Stir in the diced onions and bell peppers. Pour in the can of Ro-Tel with its juices. This adds moisture and a wonderful zesty flavor to the base sauce.
Mix in the Chicken
Fold your shredded cooked chicken into the soup mixture. Ensure every piece of chicken is coated in the creamy sauce. Season with a little salt and pepper here.
Layer the Tortillas
Place half of the cut corn tortillas in the bottom of the dish. They don't have to be perfect. Just make sure they cover the surface evenly.
Add the First Layer of Filling
Pour half of the chicken and sauce mixture over the tortillas. Use a spatula to spread it to the edges. This creates a sturdy base for your casserole.
Add the Cheese
Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce. The cheese will melt and act like glue between the layers. It adds a delicious richness.
Repeat the Layers
Add the remaining tortilla pieces on top of the cheese. Pour the rest of the chicken mixture over them. Top it all off with the final cup of cheese.
Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for about 30 minutes. This helps the vegetables soften without burning the cheese on top.
Finish and Brown
Remove the foil and bake for 15 more minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use Rotisserie Chicken: This is a huge time saver. Just shred a store-bought bird for instant flavor.
Char the Tortillas: Lightly toast your corn tortillas over a flame first. This adds a smoky taste and prevents sogginess.
Swap the Cheese: Use Pepper Jack cheese if you want more spice. It melts beautifully and adds a nice kick.
Add Extra Veggies: You can stir in black beans or corn. It makes the dish even more filling and colorful.
Crispy Topping: Add crushed tortilla chips on top during the last 5 minutes. This provides a great crunch.
Keyword Pioneer Woman King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe