Classic Creamy Paula Deen Chicken Casserole Recipe

Paula Deen Chicken Casserole Recipe That Brings Comfort to Your Dinner Table

Comfort flows through every bite of this paula deen chicken casserole, promising a soul-warming experience that transcends ordinary dinner fare.

Southern hospitality shines bright in this classic dish, welcoming hungry friends and family around the table with genuine warmth.

Creamy textures and rich flavors combine to create a memorable meal that speaks directly to heart and hunger.

Memories of family gatherings and Sunday suppers emerge with each delightful forkful, connecting generations through shared culinary traditions.

Minimal effort yields maximum satisfaction, making this recipe a reliable go-to for busy households seeking delicious meals.

What Makes Paula Deen Chicken Casserole Feel Classic

  • Easy Assembly: This casserole comes together faster than ordering takeout, and your kitchen cleanup will be a breeze with just a few mixing bowls and a baking dish.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Your family will devour this hearty meal that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying dinner everyone will request again and again.
  • Flexible Ingredients: Perfect for using leftover chicken or rotisserie meat, so your pantry staples can quickly become a delicious meal without extra grocery shopping.
  • Texture Sensation: The crunchy cornflake topping provides an amazing contrast to the creamy chicken mixture, giving your taste buds something exciting to celebrate with every single bite.

Full Ingredient List for Paula Deen Chicken Casserole

Main Protein:
  • Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded): The star of the dish, providing hearty protein and tender texture to your casserole.
Creamy Base Ingredients:
  • Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz), Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5 oz): These soups create a rich, smooth foundation for your casserole.
  • Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds tangy creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Mayonnaise (1 cup): Contributes extra richness and helps keep the casserole moist.
Cheese and Seasoning:
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Brings sharp, melty goodness to every bite.
  • Garlic Powder (1 tsp), Onion Powder (1 tsp): Provides a balanced, savory flavor without chopping fresh ingredients.
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances the overall seasoning of the dish.
Pasta and Optional Ingredient:
  • Egg Noodles (2 cups, cooked and drained): Adds a classic comfort food texture to the casserole.
  • Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz, optional): Introduces a slight tang and freshness if desired.
Crispy Topping:
  • Crushed Cornflakes (1 cup): Creates a crunchy, golden layer that adds great texture.
  • Butter (2 tbsp, melted): Helps the cornflakes turn golden brown and crisp.

Tools to Have Ready for Paula Deen Chicken Casserole

  • 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Your main vessel for creating this delicious casserole, where all the magic happens and everything gets combined.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining chicken, soups, and other ingredients without making a mess on your counter.
  • Small Bowl: Needed for mixing the crunchy cornflake topping that gives your casserole its awesome texture.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for getting the right balance of ingredients and ensuring consistent flavor every time.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and mixing all the ingredients smoothly and evenly.
  • Sharp Knife: Helpful for cutting or shredding chicken if you’re not using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.
  • Cooking Spray or Butter: Crucial for greasing your baking dish so nothing sticks and cleanup is super easy.
  • Oven Mitts: Protect your hands when handling the hot baking dish straight from the oven.

Directions For Paula Deen Chicken Casserole

Directions For Paula Deen Chicken Casserole
1

Warm Up the Oven

Heat your oven to exactly 350°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking spray or rub it with butter to prevent sticking.

2

Mix the Creamy Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in these ingredients:

  • 3 cups shredded chicken
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to your liking

Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.

3

Add Noodles and Optional Tomatoes

Dump in 2 cups of cooked egg noodles and the optional 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes. Mix gently so the noodles get coated with the creamy mixture.

4

Prepare the Crispy Topping

In a small bowl, mix:

  • 1 cup crushed cornflakes
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

This will create a crunchy golden layer for your casserole.

5

Assemble and Bake

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cornflake topping evenly across the surface. Slide the dish into the 350°F oven and bake for exactly 30-35 minutes.

6

Rest and Serve

Pull the casserole from the oven when the top turns golden and the edges are bubbling. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help it set up perfectly.

Practical Cooking Advice For Paula Deen Chicken Casserole

  • Choose full-fat cream soups for maximum richness and flavor in your casserole.
  • Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves serious cooking time when shredding.
  • Cook egg noodles just shy of package directions so they don’t get mushy during baking.
  • Crush cornflakes between your hands for a more even, crunchier coating that browns beautifully.
  • Let the casserole rest 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.

Flavor Twists For Paula Deen Chicken Casserole

  • Gluten-Free Chicken Casserole: Swap cornflakes with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free cream soups to make the entire dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with cooked quinoa or roasted chickpeas, keeping the creamy sauce and noodle base for a plant-based version that delivers similar comfort.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Option: Substitute egg noodles with riced cauliflower and use a low-carb cream base to create a lighter, keto-friendly alternative that maintains the casserole’s rich flavor.
  • Greek Yogurt Healthier Twist: Cut mayonnaise and replace with Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining the creamy texture and adding a subtle tangy note to the dish.

Classic Serving Ideas For Paula Deen Chicken Casserole

  • Perfect Portion Control: Scoop this casserole into hearty servings that fill a standard dinner plate, giving each person about 1-1.5 cups of the creamy mixture.
  • Side Dish Companions: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness of the casserole and add some fresh vegetable crunch to your plate.
  • Wine and Dine: Grab a glass of light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which cuts through the casserole’s creamy texture beautifully.
  • Leftover Magic: Store extra portions in airtight containers for quick lunch reheats, and they’ll taste just as delicious the next day when you need a comforting meal.

How To Store Paula Deen Chicken Casserole

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the crispy cornflake topping separate to prevent sogginess.
  • Freeze the casserole without the topping in a freezer-safe dish for maximum 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
  • When prepping ahead, cook the noodles and shred the chicken a day before to make assembly faster and smoother.

Paula Deen Chicken Casserole What People Ask Most

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the entire casserole without adding the cornflake topping, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the cornflake topping and cook as directed.

FAQ

What if I don’t have cornflakes for the topping?

No worries! You can substitute with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even potato chips for a crunchy topping that adds great texture to your casserole.

FAQ

Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken?

Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves tons of time. Simply shred the meat from a store-bought rotisserie chicken and follow the recipe exactly as written.

FAQ

Can I freeze this chicken casserole?

Yes, the casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil after baking, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

What protein alternatives work in this recipe?

Cooked turkey or even canned tuna can replace chicken if you want to switch things up. The creamy base will still taste delicious with different proteins.

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Classic Creamy Paula Deen Chicken Casserole Recipe

Classic Creamy Paula Deen Chicken Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy chicken casserole from Paula Deen delivers pure comfort straight to your dinner table. Cheesy, hearty layers combine classic Southern flavors that make your family crowd around the table with excitement.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 3 cups chicken, shredded

Dairy and Creamy Components:

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 (10.5 ounces) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (10.5 ounces) can cream of mushroom soup

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 2 cups egg noodles, cooked and drained
  • 1 (14.5 ounces) can diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping:

  • 1 cup crushed cornflakes
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Warm your oven to 350°F and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Shred 3 cups of cooked chicken into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 can cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup sour cream, and 1 cup mayonnaise to the chicken.
  4. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp onion powder into the mixture.
  5. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
  6. Fold in 2 cups cooked egg noodles and 1 can drained diced tomatoes until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it smoothly across the surface.
  8. Crush 1 cup cornflakes and mix with 2 tbsp melted butter in a separate small bowl.
  9. Scatter the buttery cornflake crumbs across the top of the casserole, creating an even layer.
  10. Slide the dish into the 350°F oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the top turns golden and the edges bubble.
  11. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help it set.

Notes

  • Check chicken tenderness by shredding it easily with two forks before mixing into the casserole.
  • Replace cornflakes with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a different crispy topping texture.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for faster preparation and extra flavor depth in the casserole.
  • Swap regular noodles with gluten-free egg noodles to make the dish celiac-friendly.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Casseroles
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 414 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 690 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Daniel Navarro

Daniel Navarro

Culinary Content Director

Expertise

Mexican-inspired Menus, Seasonal Restaurant Specials, Shared Plate Dining, Tequila Pairings, Chef-driven Recipes

Education

City Colleges of Chicago
  • Program: Culinary Arts, Associate in Applied Science
  • Focus: Trained in hands-on food production in a commercial food-service setting, with coursework that covers culinary technique, ethnic and classical menus, business planning, cost control, and merchandising.

Daniel writes about bold flavors, chef-driven dishes, and the kind of restaurant moments that turn tacos, mezcal, and shared plates into a night worth repeating.

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