Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish for busy families looking for a hearty and comforting meal. This creamy, cheesy casserole combines the richness of cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups, sour cream, and mayonnaise to create a flavorful base. Adding cooked chicken and egg noodles gives the dish substance, while the crispy cornflake topping brings in the perfect crunch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—it’s easy to prepare, and the results are always delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick family dinner, Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole will surely satisfy. With minimal prep time and just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for any weeknight. The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder that you can make ahead and enjoy as leftovers. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to prepare it for your next family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken casserole has all the comfort of a classic, with a few clever twists that make it both easy and indulgent. The combination of creamy soups and sour cream makes it rich and flavorful, while the addition of shredded chicken gives it a hearty texture. The cooked egg noodles provide the perfect base, soaking up all the delicious flavors, and the shredded cheddar cheese on top adds a satisfying layer of gooey goodness. For added crunch, the crushed cornflakes provide a golden, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole beneath. Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also versatile enough to be customized with different ingredients. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this Paula Deen casserole is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

For the casserole:

Cooked shredded chicken
Cream of chicken soup
Cream of mushroom soup
Sour cream
Mayonnaise
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked egg noodles
Diced tomatoes (optional)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper

For the topping:

Crushed cornflakes
Melted butter

Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are several ways you can adjust it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, substituting cooked rotisserie chicken for the shredded chicken is a great shortcut. It adds even more flavor and saves you prep time.
Healthier Version: For a lighter version, swap out the sour cream and mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, and use low-fat versions of the soups and cheese. This will give you a similar creamy texture but with fewer calories.
Add Veggies: Feel free to add in some frozen peas, carrots, or even sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Different Soups: If you don’t have cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup, you can use other creamy soups like cream of celery or homemade white sauce as substitutes.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you’re finished preparing the casserole.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

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

Step 3: Add the Noodles and Tomatoes

Fold in the cooked egg noodles and the diced tomatoes if you’re using them. Be careful not to over-stir, as you want to maintain some texture in the noodles.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Take a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Topping

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter, and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until it is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the chicken and noodles. Gently fold them in to preserve the texture.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the casserole mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a little extra kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best texture, shred your own cheddar cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives the casserole a creamier consistency.

How to Serve

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. Pair it with some warm bread or garlic bread for extra comfort. It’s also delicious with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either microwave individual portions or place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F until it’s heated through.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. If you are reheating frozen casserole, allow extra time to heat it all the way through.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent substitute for cooked shredded chicken and saves time.

2. Can I make this recipe without the cornflake topping?

Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the cornflake topping or substitute it with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend if desired.

4. How do I make this casserole spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a bit of heat.

5. Can I freeze this casserole before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it unbaked. When ready to bake, cook from frozen at 350°F for 45-50 minutes.

6. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, you can add frozen peas, carrots, or sautéed mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I use low-fat or fat-free versions of the ingredients?

Yes, you can use low-fat versions of mayonnaise, sour cream, soups, and cheese if you’re looking for a lighter version.

8. How do I reheat the casserole?

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.

9. Can I use homemade cream of chicken or mushroom soup?

Yes, you can use homemade soups if you prefer, but be sure to use the same quantity as the canned versions.

10. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. With its creamy base, tender chicken, and crispy topping, it’s sure to be a family favorite. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to make variations that suit your tastes, whether that means using rotisserie chicken or adding extra vegetables. With the option to make it ahead or freeze for later, this dish is both convenient and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or bringing it to a potluck, Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole is a surefire hit!