If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s comfort food at its finest and a guaranteed winner for family dinners or friendly gatherings. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’ll soon become one of your go-to recipes for a fuss-free yet impressive meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each element plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken and al dente pasta to the creamy, cheesy sauce that binds everything beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Bite-sized pieces provide tenderness and protein-rich goodness.
- 4 cups cooked pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni): These shapes hold the sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps build the creamy sauce base.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Gives a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a fragrant, savory kick.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
- ½ cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and extra creaminess that brightens the dish.
- 1 cup milk: Smooths out the sauce for rich, velvety texture.
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, Swiss, or a combination), divided: Provides melty, ooey-gooey deliciousness and golden crust.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just a whisper of heat to balance the creaminess.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that make all the flavors pop.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Make the Sauce
Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them until they soften and release their wonderful aromas. Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir for about a minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and sour cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and thickened to perfection. Finally, remove from heat and stir in 2 ½ cups of the shredded cheese until it melts into a luscious, creamy mixture that serves as the heart of this casserole.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once your cheese sauce is ready, add the cooked chicken and pasta directly into the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Gently stir everything together so the pasta and chicken are coated evenly, letting those bold and creamy flavors mingle wonderfully.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the combined mixture into the dish and level it out. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top to create a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes. Pop it in the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot throughout and the top is beautifully browned. The scent coming from your oven will make it nearly impossible to wait!
How to Serve Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this hearty casserole, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but a fresh, herbaceous note that contrasts nicely with the rich cheese sauce. For a little extra zing, consider a dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten things up.
Side Dishes
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe is substantial on its own, but pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides makes the meal even more special. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or roasted seasonal vegetables brings balance and lightness to the plate. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also perfect for sopping up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a potluck or want to impress guests, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming presentation. Layer with some extra cheese and broil for a minute to get a perfectly bubbly and crispy top. Another idea is to spoon the casserole over fluffy mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting twist on plating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully after a day, making the next serving just as delicious. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully, making it a great meal prep option. Place the casserole in a freezer-safe dish or airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. To avoid freezer burn, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power until warmed through, stirring halfway to heat evenly. For larger servings, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil to prevent drying, about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to refresh the golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding to the casserole.
What types of cheese work best in this casserole?
Cheddar, Colby Jack, and Swiss are all great options for their melting properties and flavor. Feel free to mix cheeses for a more complex taste that suits your preference.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free flour or a cornstarch slurry for the sauce and gluten-free pasta, you can easily adapt this recipe without compromising taste or texture.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding cooked mushrooms, spinach, or peas can add flavor and nutrients. Just mix them in with the chicken and pasta before baking.
How spicy is the casserole with red pepper flakes?
The ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a mild, pleasant warmth that balances the creamy richness. You can adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference or omit if you prefer it milder.
Final Thoughts
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both indulgent and comforting while being straightforward enough for any cook to master. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and satisfying flavors make it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—once it graces your table, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is a comforting and delicious baked pasta dish combining tender cooked chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and tender pasta, all baked to bubbly perfection. This hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner and brings together rich flavors with a hint of spice from red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Chicken & 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
- Make Sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion has softened and is translucent. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Thicken Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk and sour cream until the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 ½ cups of shredded cheese until fully melted and integrated into the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown on top.
Notes
- You can substitute any pasta shape you prefer if penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni are unavailable.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of paprika or herbs like thyme or parsley to the sauce.
- The dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
- Use low-fat sour cream and cheese to reduce fat content if desired.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
