If you are searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings a warm southern touch to your dinner table, look no further than Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe. This hearty casserole combines tender shredded chicken with creamy soups, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy buttery cornflakes for a delightful texture contrast. It’s a timeless family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and a cozy, satisfying experience that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from adding creamy richness to tender chicken and that irresistible crunchy topping that makes Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe so memorable.
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken: The star protein providing a juicy, savory base for the casserole.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Creamy and flavorful, it acts as part of the luscious sauce.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Adds a subtle earthiness that deepens the overall flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream: Gives a tangy creaminess that lifts the dish.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Enhances the moisture and velvety texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides sharpness and melts into gooey goodness on top.
- 2 cups cooked and drained egg noodles: These tender noodles soak up the sauce perfectly.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained (optional): Adds color, freshness, and an extra layer of flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a mild, savory punch.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds sweet depth without the texture of fresh onions.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the rich ingredients.
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes for topping: Creates that iconic, crispy crust.
- 2 tbsp melted butter for topping: Helps the cornflakes brown beautifully and adds buttery flavor.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready to bake the casserole evenly, allowing the cheese to melt and the topping to crisp to golden perfection.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the tender shredded chicken with both cans of cream soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for that signature savory punch. Stir everything until it’s smooth and creamy, making sure each bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Fold in Noodles and Tomatoes
Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles and, if you like, the drained diced tomatoes. This step brings together the hearty elements without overmixing, so the noodles stay tender and the tomatoes add a fresh touch without turning mushy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly inside. This sets the foundation of the casserole before adding the irresistible toppings.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the surface. As it bakes, this cheese will melt into a luscious, golden layer that complements the creamy interior.
Step 6: Add the Crunchy Topping
Mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese. This step is the secret to Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe’s signature crispy crust.
Step 7: Bake until Bubbly
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is hot and bubbly, the cheese is melted, and the cornflake topping turns a beautiful golden brown.
Step 8: Let it Rest
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set slightly, making it easier to scoop and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite.
How to Serve Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top. These garnishes add a pop of color and a hint of brightness that beautifully balance the rich casserole.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even some buttery dinner rolls. These sides offer a refreshing contrast to Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe’s creamy, cheesy heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. You can also add a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top to add color and a subtle smoky flavor, enhancing the dish’s southern charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps its creamy texture and can be enjoyed cold or reheated for a comforting snack later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or heat the whole casserole covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This helps maintain the creamy texture while keeping the cornflake topping crisp.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?
Yes! You can poach or bake chicken breasts and shred them yourself for the freshest texture. Just be sure the chicken is fully cooked and cooled before mixing into the casserole.
Is it necessary to include both cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups?
While both add delicious creaminess, you can use just one if you prefer. The combination adds depth of flavor, but a single soup will still create a tasty base.
Can I substitute egg noodles with another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or even small shells work well as alternatives. Just ensure they are cooked al dente and drained before mixing into the casserole.
What can I use instead of cornflakes for the topping?
If you want a different crunch, crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crushed crispy onions are excellent swaps, each providing a unique texture and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing and meal prepping?
Definitely. Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prepping since it freezes well and reheats easily, making busy weeknights less stressful.
Final Thoughts
This casserole truly captures the essence of southern comfort food. I encourage you to give Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe a try—it’s a foolproof way to bring the whole family together around the table with smiles and full hearts. Once you discover this dish, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for cozy, delicious dinners.
Print
Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting chicken casserole recipe by Paula Deen combines tender shredded chicken, creamy soups, sour cream, and mayonnaise with egg noodles and cheddar cheese. Topped with a buttery cornflake crust, it’s a quick and easy dish perfect for family dinners that delivers rich flavors and hearty satisfaction.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, 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
- 2 cups cooked and drained egg noodles
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup. Add sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Noodles and Tomatoes: Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles and diced tomatoes, if using. Take care not to over-stir to maintain texture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, then spread the chicken mixture evenly inside it.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the baking dish.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the dish is hot, bubbly, and the cornflake topping is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise.
- Optional diced tomatoes add moisture and a slight tang but can be omitted for a creamier texture.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
- Substitute crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for the cornflake topping if desired.
- Ensure noodles are well drained to prevent a soggy casserole.
