
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.
Two comforting, lower‑fat fall meals made in one cooking session: a hearty King Ranch Chicken cooked in a skillet without added oil, and a savory Cabbage Roll Soup packed with lean beef, cauliflower rice, and plenty of veggies. Both dishes are lighter versions of classic recipes, using reduced‑fat soups, Greek yogurt, and extra‑lean meat while still delivering big flavor.
Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist
Everything you need to know about this recipe
King Ranch Chicken originated on the historic King Ranch in South Texas and became a beloved casserole that combines Mexican and Southern flavors. It reflects the ranch’s multicultural heritage, mixing chili spices, corn tortillas, and creamy sauces for a one‑pot comfort dish.
Some versions bake the dish in a casserole dish, others add jalapeños or use shredded cheese blends. A few families layer the tortillas on top instead of mixing them in, creating a crunchy topping.
Cabbage roll soup is often served hot with a slice of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream, mimicking the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage rolls but in a quicker, broth‑based form.
King Ranch Chicken is a popular dish for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals like Thanksgiving in Texas because it can feed a crowd and be prepared ahead of time.
Its unique blend of creamy soups, corn tortilla pieces, and a mix of Mexican spices creates a casserole‑like texture that’s both hearty and saucy, setting it apart from typical taco or enchilada dishes.
Common errors include adding too much oil, which makes the dish greasy, and not allowing the sauce to bubble before adding chicken, which can result in a bland texture. Also, over‑cooking the tortilla pieces can turn them mushy.
Greek yogurt provides the same tangy creaminess with fewer calories and virtually no fat, aligning with the creator’s goal of a lighter, guilt‑free version while still delivering richness.
Yes, the soup improves after resting. Cool it to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
The cabbage should be very tender and slightly wilted, the carrots should be soft enough to break apart with a spoon, and the broth should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower rice without being watery.
The YouTube channel Jenifer Jenkins focuses on realistic, lower‑calorie home cooking, meal‑prep tips, and product reviews that help viewers eat mindfully while still enjoying flavorful, comforting dishes.
Jenifer Jenkins emphasizes ingredient swaps that cut calories and fat—like using reduced‑fat soups, Greek yogurt, and rinsed rotisserie chicken—while still preserving authentic flavors, whereas many channels prioritize traditional richness over health considerations.