King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti State Fare
If you're looking for a hearty, comforting meal with a little bit of a kick, then King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti is the dish for you. This Texan classic combines two of the Lone Star state's most beloved foods: pasta and spicy chicken. With its creamy sauce and bold flavor, it's no wonder that King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti has become a staple in many Texan households. In this article, we'll explore the history of this dish, how to make it, and where to find it in Texas.
The History of King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti
The origins of King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti are somewhat murky, but most people agree that it has its roots in the famous King Ranch in South Texas. The ranch, which was established in the 1850s, quickly became one of the largest and most influential ranches in the United States. Over the years, the ranch has played a significant role in the development of the Texas cattle industry, and it has become a symbol of the state's rich history and culture.
According to legend, King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti was created by a ranch cook who was looking for a way to use up leftover chicken and pasta. He combined the two with some cheese and other ingredients, and the dish was an instant hit with the ranch hands. From there, it quickly spread throughout Texas, and it's now a beloved dish that's served in homes, restaurants, and state fairs throughout the state.
How to Make King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti
There are many different variations of King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti, but most recipes include the following ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes and green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti, follow these steps:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
- In a large saucepan, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until they are soft and translucent.
- Add the cream of chicken soup, Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- Add the cooked, shredded chicken to the saucepan, and stir well to combine.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the saucepan, and stir well to combine.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, and stir well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, and bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once the King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti is finished baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It pairs well with a side of cornbread or a crisp green salad.
Where to Find King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti in Texas
If you're in Texas and you're looking to try King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti for yourself, there are plenty of places to find it. Many Tex-Mex restaurants and diners throughout the state serve this classic dish, and it's a popular item at state fairs and food festivals. Some of the best places to find King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti in Texas include:
- The King Ranch Saddle Shop in Kingsville, Texas
- The Texas State Fair in Dallas, Texas
- The Blue Bonnet Cafe in Marble Falls, Texas
- The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood, Texas
- Mamacita's Mexican Restaurant in San Antonio, Texas
- The Original Ninfa's on Navigation in Houston, Texas
No matter where you go in Texas, you're sure to find a delicious version of King Ranch Chicken Spaghetti. So be sure to give it a try the next time you're in the Lone Star State!