Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

Comfort food doesn’t get much more classic than a rich, creamy chicken casserole—and Paula Deen’s take on it is everything you want in a Southern-inspired dish. With tender shredded chicken, a duo of creamy soups, noodles, and a crispy cornflake topping, this casserole brings together flavor, texture, and soul-satisfying comfort in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or looking to prep a hearty weeknight dinner, Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole delivers with ease and flavor.

The recipe is simple enough for even beginner cooks, with minimal prep time and familiar pantry staples. It’s also easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or lighter ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Cheesy, creamy, crunchy—this casserole is the definition of Southern comfort on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy and Crowd-Pleasing – Quick to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy.
2. Perfect for Leftovers – A great way to use up cooked or rotisserie chicken.
3. Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and store for future meals.
4. Classic Southern Flavor – Rich, creamy, and loaded with comfort.
5. Customizable – Easily add veggies or swap out ingredients for a lighter version.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken, shredded
• Cream of chicken soup
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Sour cream
• Mayonnaise
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Egg noodles, cooked and drained
• Diced tomatoes (optional)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper
• Crushed cornflakes
• Butter, melted

Variations

• Add Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, green beans, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for kick.
• Use Different Toppings: Swap cornflakes for crushed Ritz crackers or panko.
• Cheese Options: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheddar blend.
• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and mayo, and low-fat soup.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken and mushroom soups, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Noodles and Tomatoes

Fold in the cooked egg noodles and drained diced tomatoes, if using.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Add Topping

Mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden-brown topping.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
• Don’t overcook the noodles—they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
• Drain tomatoes well to avoid a watery casserole.
• For crispier topping, broil for the last 1–2 minutes of baking.
• Grease the dish well to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

How to Serve

Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with a simple green salad, roasted veggies, or Southern-style sides like green beans, cornbread, or coleslaw for a full meal. It’s also great as leftovers for lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing

Assemble the casserole (without baking) and cover tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as instructed.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a time-saving, flavorful option.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely—assemble it the day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

3. What’s a good topping alternative to cornflakes?

Try crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed potato chips.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, freeze it unbaked for best texture and flavor.

5. Can I skip the mayonnaise?

You can replace it with extra sour cream or plain Greek yogurt.

6. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, small pasta like rotini or penne work well too.

7. How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and soups, and replace cornflakes with gluten-free crumbs.

8. Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Add cooked broccoli, spinach, peas, or green beans.

9. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very much so—its creamy texture and cheesy flavor are a hit with kids.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two 9×13 pans or one larger casserole dish.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole is the ultimate Southern comfort food—rich, creamy, and deliciously satisfying. With pantry staples and easy prep, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or make-ahead freezer meals. Whether you stick to the original or add your own twist, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try it once, and you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic.

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