Delicious Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Introduction

If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and comforting meal, Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe is the perfect choice. This Southern-style casserole combines tender shredded chicken, a creamy sauce, and a crispy topping that makes every bite satisfying. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, this recipe is a surefire hit.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the best way to prepare Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole step-by-step, with helpful tips, ingredient variations, and serving suggestions. This dish is easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy and Delicious – The combination of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheese creates an ultra-rich and creamy texture.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special event, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser.
  • Easy to Prepare – Simple steps and common ingredients make this a go-to comfort food.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare it in advance and bake when ready.

Ingredients

To make Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Casserole:

  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

For the Topping:

  • 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
  • 1/2 cup melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Use cooked and shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover baked chicken, or boil chicken breasts and shred them.

3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Shredded chicken
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

5. Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine:

  • Crushed Ritz crackers
  • Melted butter Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

6. Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

7. Let It Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together perfectly.


Tips for the Best Chicken Casserole

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken – It saves time and adds extra flavor.
  • Add Vegetables – Mix in peas, carrots, or mushrooms for a nutritional boost.
  • Try a Different Cheese – Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a new flavor.
  • Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
  • Use a Different Crunchy Topping – Instead of Ritz crackers, try panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe

Variations

1. Low-Carb Version

  • Replace crackers with crushed pork rinds.
  • Use a homemade keto-friendly sauce instead of canned soup.

2. Gluten-Free Option

  • Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.
  • Check that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

3. Dairy-Free Alternative

  • Substitute sour cream with dairy-free yogurt.
  • Use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • Replace butter with olive oil for the topping.

What to Serve with Chicken Casserole

  • Mashed Potatoes – A creamy and smooth side dish.
  • Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the richness.
  • Garden Salad – A light and refreshing contrast.
  • Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

  • Freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating Instructions

  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs add more moisture and flavor to the casserole.

2. How can I make this casserole healthier?

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
  • Reduce the cheese quantity.
  • Add more vegetables.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Crushed cornflakes
  • Crushed pretzels

5. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, then add the topping and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes for crispiness.


Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, cheesy, and comforting meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how it turned out!

Happy Cooking! 🍗🧀

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe
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3Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe

Delicious Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe: A Comforting Classic


  • Author: isabil
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Make Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole with a creamy, cheesy filling and crispy topping. Perfect comfort food for any occasion!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

For the Topping:

  • 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
  • 1/2 cup melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Use cooked and shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover baked chicken, or boil chicken breasts and shred them.

3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Shredded chicken
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning
    Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

5. Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine:

  • Crushed Ritz crackers
  • Melted butter
    Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

6. Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

7. Let It Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together perfectly.

Notes

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken – It saves time and adds extra flavor.
  • Add Vegetables – Mix in peas, carrots, or mushrooms for a nutritional boost.
  • Try a Different Cheese – Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a new flavor.
  • Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
  • Use a Different Crunchy Topping – Instead of Ritz crackers, try panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
  • Prep Time: 15minutes
  • Cook Time: 30minutes

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