If you have been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, cheesy sauce to create a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. The blend of creamy textures and just the right hint of spice makes it an instant favorite, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your cooking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole lies in how simple, yet thoughtfully chosen, the ingredients are. Each one plays its role—chicken for protein and heartiness, pasta for a substantial bite, cheese for creaminess and gooey goodness, and just the right amount of seasoning to tie it all together with warmth and flavor.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small bite-sized pieces: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or freshly cooked for the best texture and juiciness.
- 4 cups cooked pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni), drained: These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully and provide a satisfying chew.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Essential for starting the sauce with a rich, silky base.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of aromatic savoriness that awakens the dish.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The secret to thickening the sauce perfectly without lumps.
- ½ cup sour cream: Introduces a slight tang that balances the richness.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the sauce creamy and smooth.
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, Swiss, or a combination), divided: Using a blend enhances flavor complexity and meltability.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough to warm the palate without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: The finishing touch that brings all flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Create the Velvety Cheese Sauce
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This ensures a smooth, rich base for your sauce. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant, which builds layers of irresistible flavor. Then, sprinkle in the flour and give it a good stir, cooking it for about a minute to eliminate any raw taste. Slowly whisk in the milk and sour cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep simmering the sauce until it thickens to a luscious consistency. Finally, remove it from heat and fold in 2 ½ cups of the shredded cheese, allowing it to melt completely for that classic ooey-gooey texture.
Step 2: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
Once your cheese sauce is perfectly smooth and creamy, add the cooked chicken and pasta directly into the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together carefully so each piece of pasta gets coated and the chicken is evenly distributed. This mixture is the heart of Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe, where wholesome ingredients meet soul-soothing flavors.
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour in the cheesy chicken and pasta mixture, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top to create a beautifully browned and bubbly crust. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the casserole is hot throughout, cheese melted perfectly, and the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. This baking step seals in flavors and invites a lovely comforting aroma to fill your kitchen.
How to Serve Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this casserole even more. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts the creamy richness. A light dusting of paprika adds a subtle warmth and visual appeal. For those who love a bit of zing, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to be the star of the meal, but pairing it with crisp, fresh sides makes the dinner truly well-rounded. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness perfectly, cutting through the cheese with brightness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add texture and nutrition without competing for attention. And for a touch of comfort, garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are irresistible partners.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe straight from the baking dish family-style to keep things cozy and welcoming. For a more refined touch, scoop individual portions into shallow bowls and garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. If you’re hosting, try layering the casserole in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese for golden mini casseroles that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for convenient next-day lunches or a quick dinner solution. The flavors often meld nicely overnight, sometimes tasting even better after a day of resting.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole completely but do not bake. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. To avoid drying out, cover the dish with foil initially, removing it near the end to crisp the top. Alternatively, smaller portions can be microwaved but may lose some of the original texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves prep time, making it a perfect shortcut for Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe.
What type of cheese is best to use?
Using a blend like cheddar, Colby Jack, and Swiss offers a wonderful balance of sharpness, creaminess, and meltability, but feel free to use what you enjoy most.
Can I substitute sour cream if I don’t have any?
You can swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or cream cheese, but sour cream’s tang really enhances the sauce, so try to include it if possible.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes, it freezes well when unbaked and reheats beautifully with a little care to retain moisture and texture.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding cooked broccoli, mushrooms, or peas can add color, nutrition, and extra flavor to this already amazing casserole.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe that makes it stand out as a go-to comfort food. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender chicken and pasta is a classic combination that never gets old. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress guests with a cozy meal, this recipe is a winner every time. I encourage you to dive in, make it your own, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is a comforting and cheesy baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken, pasta, and a rich homemade cheese sauce made with butter, onions, garlic, sour cream, and a blend of cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, this casserole is perfect for family dinners and serves 8 generously.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups cooked pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni), drained
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, Swiss, or a combination), divided
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and sour cream until the sauce is smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, then stir in 2½ cups of shredded cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine with Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken pieces, cooked pasta, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. Stir well to evenly incorporate all ingredients into a creamy mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese topping has turned golden brown.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or leftover roasted poultry.
- Use your favorite blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
- Adding vegetables like peas or mushrooms can enhance nutrition and taste.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
