Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

Introduction

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven, and Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is the kind of dish that fills your home with warmth and comfort. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken with creamy goodness, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it an essential part of anyone’s recipe collection. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this casserole will not disappoint!

Why make this recipe

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

So, why should you whip up Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole? For starters, it’s a budget-friendly meal that stretches your dollar while offering a satisfying and fulfilling dish. It’s quick to prepare, taking only about 35 minutes in the oven, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, the combination of ingredients creates a creamy, cheesy delight that kids and adults alike rave about.

"I made this casserole for my family gathering, and everyone went back for seconds! It’s now a regular on our table." — Satisfied Home Cook

The dish is perfect for any occasion—from a casual family dinner to a potluck with friends. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, and its simple yet delicious flavor profile is sure to please even picky eaters.

How to make Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Ready to dive into this easy, delicious recipe? Here’s a brief overview of what to expect. You’ll be mixing up a creamy chicken filling, layering it with crunchy saltine crackers, and finishing it off with a cheesy topping. The process is straightforward, so even if you’re a beginner, you’ll feel like a pro in no time!

Ingredients

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start whipping up this delightful casserole, let’s check your pantry. Here’s everything you’ll need:

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  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to use a different cheese if you prefer)
  • 1 cup crushed saltine crackers (you could substitute with other crackers or breadcrumbs for a varied texture)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: onion or garlic powder for added flavor

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to bring this dish to life!

Directions

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is nicely blended.
  3. Grease a casserole dish and layer half of the crushed saltine crackers on the bottom.
  4. Pour the chicken mixture over the crackers, spreading it out evenly.
  5. Top it off with the remaining crushed crackers and sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top.
  6. Drizzle the melted butter over the entire dish for that golden finish.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes to cool before serving.

Paula Deen's Amazing Chicken Casserole

How to serve Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

Perfect Pairings for Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

When it comes to serving this casserole, the options are endless. Consider giving it a fresh twist by adding a side salad for a crunchy balance or garlic bread for a comforting touch. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a simple coleslaw to cut through the richness. For a kick, serve it alongside some spicy pickles or jalapeños!

How to store

Best Way to Store Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but happens!), they can easily be stored. Make sure to let the casserole cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven until heated through for best results—microwaving can lead to uneven heating!

Tips to make

Expert Advice

To really elevate the flavors of this casserole, consider experimenting with the seasoning. Adding onion powder and garlic powder can give it an extra depth. For those who love a little heat, a sprinkle of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes can make it zesty. Additionally, if you like it extra cheesy, don’t hesitate to load up on the cheddar or even mix in some pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Variations

Creative Twists

While the classic recipe is a hit, you can easily make it your own! Switch out the chicken for cooked turkey or even a blend of vegetables for a vegetarian version. Add in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for more texture and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can yield a deliciously unique dish.

FAQs

Common questions

Q: How long does it take to make this casserole?
A: From preparation to baking, you’re looking at about 45 minutes total—perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Q: Can I use other types of meat?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even shredded beef for a different flavor profile.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat the casserole?
A: The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F until warmed throughout, but a microwave works fine if you’re looking for speed.

Crafting this chicken casserole is a rewarding experience, and with each bite, you’ll bring a little bit of Paula Deen’s warmth into your home. Enjoy!

Print
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Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole


  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Paleo

Description

A heartwarming chicken casserole combining tender shredded chicken with a creamy filling, perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crushed saltine crackers
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: onion or garlic powder for added flavor

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
  3. Grease a casserole dish and layer half of the crushed saltine crackers on the bottom.
  4. Pour the chicken mixture over the crackers, spreading it out evenly.
  5. Top it off with the remaining crushed crackers and sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top.
  6. Drizzle the melted butter over the entire dish.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Experiment with seasoning or try using turkey for a different twist.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, Paula Deen, weeknight meals

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