King Ranch Chicken Soup Recipe

Savor the bold Tex-Mex flavors of this Crockpot King Ranch Chicken Soup, a comforting twist on the classic casserole. Tender chicken, spicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese create a hearty meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Each spoonful delivers a satisfying balance of smoky spices, mellow creaminess, and vibrant vegetables. The slow-cooked blend allows the seasonings to develop deep, rich flavors while keeping the chicken succulent and tender.

Top it with crisp tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for irresistible texture and color. This easy, crowd-pleasing soup turns everyday ingredients into a cozy, flavor-packed experience.

King Ranch Chicken Soup Ingredients

• Shredded Chicken – The hearty foundation, bringing tender texture and rich, savory flavor that anchors every spoonful.
• Chicken Broth – A flavorful base that infuses the soup with depth and comforting warmth.
• Rotel Tomatoes – Bright, zesty notes of tomato and green chile for a lively Tex-Mex kick.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – Adds velvety creaminess and earthy undertones for a luscious, well-rounded body.
• Cream Cheese – Melts into silky richness, balancing the spices with smooth, indulgent creaminess.
• Taco Seasoning – A bold spice blend that ties the flavors together with smoky, zesty flair.
• Red Bell Pepper & Onion – Fresh aromatics that add sweetness, color, and a subtle crunch to every bite.

Recipe Tips

1. Balance the Spice and Creaminess
Rotel tomatoes and taco seasoning bring a lively kick, but the cream cheese smooths it out beautifully. If you prefer a milder flavor, choose mild Rotel or reduce the chili powder slightly. For a spicier edge, add a pinch of cayenne or extra taco seasoning. Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance for your family or guests.

2. Enhance Depth with Homemade Broth
While store-bought chicken broth works well, using homemade stock elevates the flavor significantly. Simmer leftover bones with vegetables and herbs for a rich, savory base. This simple step adds complexity and a fresh, comforting aroma that can’t be matched by packaged broth.

3. Perfect Cream Cheese Integration
To avoid lumps, cut the cream cheese into small cubes and let it soften to room temperature before adding it to the hot soup. Stir patiently until fully melted. This ensures a silky, velvety texture that makes every spoonful indulgent and smooth.

What to Serve with King Ranch Chicken Soup

Serve this hearty soup alongside warm, crusty bread or buttery cornbread for a satisfying meal. A crisp green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness. For a Tex-Mex twist, pair it with cheesy quesadillas or lightly seasoned tortilla chips to scoop up every last drop of creamy goodness.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient option and adds extra flavor to the soup.

Q2: How can I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and verify that your taco seasoning is gluten-free.

Q3: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Absolutely. Simmer all ingredients (except cream cheese) for about 30 minutes, then stir in the cream cheese until melted.

Q4: How long will leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

King Ranch Chicken Soup

For fans of the classic King Ranch flavors, this Crockpot King Ranch Chicken Soup delivers a rich, Tex-Mex twist that is both hearty and satisfying. Succulent chicken mingles with tangy tomatoes, velvety cheese, and a fragrant medley of spices, resulting in a comforting dish suited for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings alike.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 10-oz cans Rotel tomatoes
• 1 10-oz can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 small yellow onion finely diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper seeded and diced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 packet taco seasoning 1 oz
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 8 oz cream cheese cubed and softened
• Optional Garnishes
• Fresh chopped cilantro
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Tortilla chips or strips
• Sour cream

Method

 

1. In the crockpot, combine the butter, diced onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, shredded chicken, chicken broth, taco seasoning, chili powder, and ground cumin.
2. Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to blend thoroughly.
3. Add the cubed cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and seamlessly incorporated into the soup.
4. Ladle into bowls and finish with your choice of garnishes such as shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips.

Notes

Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For extended storage, freeze the soup for as long as 3 months, leaving enough headspace in the container for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.