King Ranch Chicken and Fresh Veggie Casserole

King ranch chicken casserole is a longtime hot dish favorite for a reason—rich, creamy, and covered with cheese. Opt for the more indulgent version or dish up this lighter, veggie-packed rendition.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 55 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins
• Calories: 285 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 onions, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 red bell peppers, chopped
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 2 green bell peppers, chopped
• Lime wedges, for serving
• 1 cup raw cashews
• 3 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.75 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 0.25 cup sliced green onion
• 1.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 1.5 teaspoons cumin seeds, crushed
• 1.5 teaspoons oregano, crushed
• 4.5 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
• 8 (6 inch) corn tortillas, cut into quarters
• 8 ounces shredded Mexican-blend cheese

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Step 2

For cashew cream, pour boiling water over cashews in a small bowl. Cover and let stand for 15 minutes; drain. Blend cashews, broth, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a blender until smooth.

Step 3

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chili powder, cumin seeds, and oregano; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add onions, bell peppers, and jalapeño; cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl. Stir in cashew cream and chicken.

Step 4

Put one-third of tortilla wedges in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer with half the chicken mixture, one-third of tortilla wedges, and 1 cup cheese. Layer with remaining chicken mixture, tortilla wedges, and cheese.

Step 5

Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake until bubbly, about 15 minutes more. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Top with green onion and serve with lime wedges.