Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole
Making Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of comfort food. This dish brings together tender shredded chicken and hearty pasta in a creamy sauce that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying, or for family gatherings where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Once you’ve experienced the delightful flavors and ease of this casserole, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Why you’ll fall in love with this dish
This chicken casserole is not only delicious but also made from simple ingredients, making it incredibly budget-friendly. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole nails it every time. The combination of creamy soup, tangy sour cream, and rich cheese creates a luscious sauce that binds everything together in a way that’s hard to resist.
"I made Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole for my family last week, and it was a hit! Everyone went back for seconds, and there were no leftovers!" – A happy home cook.
Step-by-step overview
Ready to dive into cooking? Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is straightforward, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels. You’ll quickly pull together the ingredients for a creamy, cheesy dish that bakes beautifully in your oven. Here’s how the cooking process will unfold:
- Preheat your oven.
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
- Transfer to a baking dish and optionally add a breadcrumb topping.
- Bake until bubbly and golden.
Gather these items
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked pasta (like egg noodles or penne)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
Feel free to substitute ingredients to suit your taste, such as using rotisserie chicken for convenience or swapping out the pasta for a gluten-free option.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything well until it’s thoroughly combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- If you desire a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mixture.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
- Serve warm and enjoy this comforting meal!
Best ways to enjoy it
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can elevate the meal even more. You might consider adding a side of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce or serving it with some homemade coleslaw for a bit of crunch.
How to store & freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely but possible!), this casserole stores beautifully. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it before baking—just ensure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply bake from frozen, adding a little extra time to ensure it’s heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the mix.
- If you prefer a little heat, a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños can give this casserole a spicy kick.
- Don’t be shy to mix in leftover vegetables or other proteins; the casserole is incredibly forgiving.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for an earthy variation. Alternatively, try adding different types of cheese like mozzarella for a gooey texture or feta for a tangy bite. You can even switch the chicken for shredded turkey after the holidays for a delightful twist!
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this casserole?
Prep time typically takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 30-35 minutes for baking.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Egg noodles, penne, or even rotini work well—just ensure they are cooked before mixing.
How do I safely store leftovers?
Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer preservation.
With Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating a comforting experience that brings everyone to the table. Enjoy the warmth and goodness this dish brings to your home!
Amazing Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 2 cups cooked pasta (like egg noodles or penne) Ensure pasta is cooked before mixing.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup Can be substituted with cream of mushroom for variation.
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar) Feel free to try mozzarella or feta for different flavors.
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
- Breadcrumbs to taste for topping (optional) Add for a crunchy topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything well until it’s thoroughly combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mixture.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
- Serve warm and enjoy this comforting meal!
