Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and satisfaction of a homemade casserole fresh out of the oven. If you’re looking for a hearty, creamy, and utterly delicious dinner option, Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe is here to deliver. This comforting dish brings together tender chicken, flavorful sauces, cheesy goodness, and a crunchy topping for the perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or just a weeknight craving, this casserole hits the spot every single time. So, let’s dive into how you can make it yourself!

What Makes Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Special?

Paula Deen is renowned for her Southern-inspired recipes, and this chicken casserole is no exception. The rich, creamy base and the savory layers of flavor feel like a warm hug on a plate. What sets it apart is the perfect combination of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and a crunchy cornflake topping that elevates every bite.

Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or even turkey for a variation.
• Soups: If you’re avoiding canned soups, make your own with a mix of chicken broth, milk, and a thickener like cornstarch.
• Noodles: Substitute with pasta shells, penne, or even gluten-free noodles if needed.

How to Make Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

1. Preheat Your Oven

Before you begin assembling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready to bake once the casserole is prepped.

2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup. Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is creamy and well blended.

3. Add the Noodles and Tomatoes

Fold in the cooked egg noodles. If you’re using diced tomatoes, gently mix them in at this stage. Be careful not to over-stir to maintain the texture of the noodles.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the dish.

5. Add Cheese and Topping

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until coated. Spread this mixture over the cheese layer for that irresistible crunch.

6. Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

7. Rest and Serve

Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set before serving. Enjoy it hot and pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This casserole is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Family-Friendly: The rich, cheesy flavors are a hit with kids and adults alike.
3. Make-Ahead Option: Assemble it in advance and bake when ready.
4. Customizable: You can tweak ingredients to fit your taste or dietary needs.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content for one serving (based on eight servings):

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Casserole

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercook the noodles, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
• Shred Chicken Easily: Use two forks or a hand mixer to shred chicken quickly.
• For Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the chicken mixture.
• Make It Healthier: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and use low-fat sour cream and cheese.

Creative Variations to Try

• Tex-Mex Style: Add a can of diced green chilies and a sprinkle of taco seasoning.
• Vegetable Packed: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients.
• Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp or canned tuna for a unique take.
• Cheesy Explosion: Use a mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar for a richer cheese layer.

FAQ: Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Assemble and freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

4. Can I use other toppings besides cornflakes?

Yes, crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crispy fried onions work wonderfully.

5. What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

6. How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free noodles and a gluten-free alternative to canned soups.

Conclusion: Make Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Tonight!

With its rich, creamy layers and satisfying crunch, Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and loved by all.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat your family to this Southern comfort classic. Trust me, the smiles around the dinner table will make it all worthwhile!

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6–8

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Description

A rich, creamy, and comforting Southern classic! Tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and a crunchy cornflake topping make this casserole the perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks. It’s simple to make, customizable, and oh-so-satisfying!

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Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups cooked and drained egg noodles
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup crushed cornflakes (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven
  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare Chicken Mixture
  In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth.
• Add Noodles and Tomatoes
  Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles and diced tomatoes (if using) to maintain their texture.
• Assemble the Casserole
  Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the chicken mixture evenly into the dish.
• Top with Cheese and Cornflakes
  Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. Mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter and evenly spread over the cheese layer.
• Bake
  Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
• Rest and Serve
  Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with your favorite sides!

Notes

• Slightly undercook the noodles, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
• Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Add a dash of smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor.
• Use crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs as alternative toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern