Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

This easy, creamy chicken casserole feeds a family and warms the kitchen. It uses simple ingredients and needs little work.

introduction

Paula Deen’s recipe cooks tender chicken in a rich sauce and tops it with cheese and crumbs. If you like homestyle casseroles, you may also enjoy a classic chicken noodle casserole for another simple meal idea.

why make this recipe

• It uses common ingredients you may already have.
• It tastes creamy and comforting.
• You can change it to use leftover chicken or different cheeses.
• It is good for busy weeknights and potlucks.

how to make Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

Make sure you have cooked chicken and a baking dish ready. You will mix the sauce, add chicken and vegetables, top with cheese and crumbs, then bake until hot and bubbly.

Ingredients :

• 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

For a crunchy twist, see a simple Doritos chicken casserole idea that uses a crunchy topping.

Directions :

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, stir together both soups, sour cream, milk, and salt and pepper until smooth.
3. Add chopped chicken, onion, and frozen peas and carrots. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly and the top is golden.
8. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

For a different pasta style, you can follow a chicken spaghetti method that uses spaghetti and tomato flavors.

how to serve Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

Serve warm in large scoops. Add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. It pairs well with biscuits or crusty bread.

how to store Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

• In the fridge: Cover and keep up to 3–4 days.
• To freeze: Cover well and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating.
• To reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.

tips to make Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
• If you like more sauce, add a little extra milk or sour cream.
• For a lighter option, swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt.
• For a crunchy top, try panko or the Doritos-style topping idea from above.
• For a creamy twist, check this Alfredo tater tot twist for inspiration.

variation (if any)

• Add broccoli or mushrooms for more vegetables.
• Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
• Use cream of celery or mushroom soup for a different flavor.
• Make it spicy with a small can of diced green chilies.

FAQs

Q: Can I use raw chicken?
A: Yes. If you use raw chicken, cook it first in a pan or bake until done before mixing into the casserole. Ensure chicken reaches 165°F.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble in the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to bake time.

Q: Is this recipe freezer friendly?
A: Yes. Cover tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I make it gluten free?
A: Use gluten-free cream soups and gluten-free crackers or panko for the topping.

Q: How do I know when it is done?
A: The casserole is done when it is hot and bubbly in the center and the topping is golden.

Conclusion

For the full original version and another view of this casserole, see the detailed recipe at Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole on 100K Recipes and a close variation at Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole on Sos Recipes.