Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe: A Southern Comfort Classic

When you’re craving a warm, comforting meal, nothing beats Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe. Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and topped with a golden, crispy crust, this dish is the epitome of Southern comfort food. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you need to feed a crowd with something hearty and delicious.

This casserole combines shredded chicken, tender noodles, and a blend of savory soups, all brought together with a crunchy cornflake topping. It’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• Classic Comfort Food: Every bite is rich, creamy, and full of nostalgic flavors.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping.
• Easy to Make: With simple, everyday ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite add-ins or toppings.

Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Cooked chicken (shredded)	3 cups
Cream of chicken soup	1 (10.5 oz) can
Cream of mushroom soup	1 (10.5 oz) can
Sour cream	1 cup
Mayonnaise	1 cup
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup
Egg noodles (cooked and drained)	2 cups
Diced tomatoes (optional)	1 (14.5 oz) can
Garlic powder	1 tsp
Onion powder	1 tsp
Salt and pepper	To taste

For the Topping

Ingredient	Quantity
Crushed cornflakes	1 cup
Butter (melted)	2 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions for Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
3. Cook and shred the chicken if you haven’t already.
4. Boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

2. Mix the Creamy Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise.
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and diced tomatoes (if using). Mix until smooth.

3. Combine the Casserole Base

1. Add the cooked shredded chicken and egg noodles to the creamy mixture.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until the chicken and noodles are evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the chicken and noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.

5. Make the Cornflake Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes and melted butter, stirring until the cornflakes are evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture over the top of the casserole.

6. Bake the Casserole

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

7. Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
2. Scoop into bowls or plates, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Casserole

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken

For a time-saving shortcut, use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

2. Cook Noodles Al Dente

Boil the egg noodles until just tender to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.

3. Customize the Topping

• Swap cornflakes for crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
• Add grated Parmesan cheese to the topping for extra flavor.

4. Add Vegetables

For a complete meal, mix in frozen peas, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped spinach.

5. Make It Spicy

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the creamy mixture for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	22 g
Fat	24 g
Fiber	2 g

Creative Variations of Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

1. Mexican-Style Chicken Casserole

• Swap the cream of mushroom soup for enchilada sauce.
• Add black beans, corn, and diced jalapeños.
• Use Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar.

2. Low-Carb Chicken Casserole

• Replace the egg noodles with steamed cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist.

3. BBQ Chicken Casserole

• Replace the cream of chicken soup with barbecue sauce.
• Add caramelized onions and extra cheddar cheese.

4. Breakfast Chicken Casserole

• Add scrambled eggs and cooked bacon for a breakfast-inspired twist.
• Replace the cornflake topping with hash browns or tater tots.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping and bake when ready to serve.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

4. Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta work well if you don’t have egg noodles.

5. How do I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream soups, vegan mayonnaise, and plant-based cheese substitutes.

6. What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

Serve it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

A Final Bite: Why This Recipe Is a Southern Favorite

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting reminder of home-cooked meals and Southern hospitality. With its creamy filling, tender chicken, and crunchy topping, it’s a recipe that never fails to please.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether it’s for your family or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Print