Paula Deen's Amazing Chicken Casserole

Category: Inspiring Dinner Ideas

Mix shredded chicken with creamy soups, mayo, sour cream, and cooked noodles. Top with cheese and buttered cornflakes. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:12:26 GMT
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A comforting chicken casserole that brings together tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and golden-brown cornflake topping - this Paula Deen inspired recipe is what family dinner dreams are made of. The combination of two different cream soups creates an incredibly rich sauce that coats every bite, while the crunchy cornflake topping adds that perfect contrast in texture that keeps you coming back for more.

The first time I made this casserole was for a potluck dinner, and I watched as people went back for seconds and thirds. My daughter, who usually picks at her dinner, cleaned her plate and asked if we could have it again tomorrow. Now it's become our Sunday night tradition, filling the house with warm, comforting aromas that bring everyone to the table without being called twice.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here; the slight seasoning adds an extra layer of flavor
  • Cream soups: Both cream of chicken and mushroom soups create the perfect savory base; look for the low-sodium versions if you're watching salt intake
  • Sour cream and mayonnaise: Full-fat versions give the best texture, but light versions work too
  • Egg noodles: Choose medium or wide noodles; they hold up better in the casserole
  • Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds the most flavor; grate it yourself for better melting
  • Cornflakes: The secret to that irresistible crunchy top; crush them while still in the bag for less mess

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare Your Base:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Grease your baking dish thoroughly, getting into all corners
This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier
Create the Creamy Mixture:
Combine soups, sour cream, and mayonnaise first
Whisk until completely smooth - no lumps!
Season generously with garlic and onion powder
This base is key to the casserole's flavor
Add Your Proteins:
Fold in shredded chicken gently
Make sure every piece gets coated in the creamy mixture
Add cooked noodles with a light touch to keep them intact
Delicious Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe for Quick Family Dinners Save
Delicious Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe for Quick Family Dinners | kitchenscroll.com

I've learned through countless attempts that the key to making this casserole extraordinary lies in the layering. When my grandmother first taught me to make it, she insisted on taking time with each step, especially coating the noodles in the sauce. She was right - rushing this step means you might end up with dry spots in your casserole.

Beyond Basic Assembly

What makes this casserole truly special is its versatility. During summer, I often add fresh sweet corn and diced bell peppers. In fall, I'll mix in some sautéed mushrooms and fresh thyme. Each variation becomes a new family favorite, though my husband still swears by the original version.

Make-Ahead Magic

The beauty of this casserole lies in its flexibility. I often assemble it in the morning (minus the cornflake topping), keep it covered in the fridge, then top and bake it just before dinner. The flavors actually develop more fully this way.

Temperature Tips

Let all your dairy ingredients come to room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients don't blend as smoothly and can lead to a lumpy sauce. I learned this the hard way during my first attempt when I used sour cream straight from the fridge!

Serving Suggestions

While perfectly satisfying on its own, I love serving this with a bright, lemony green salad. The acidity cuts through the richness beautifully. For special occasions, I'll add some garlic bread on the side.

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe Save
Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe | kitchenscroll.com

This casserole has become more than just a recipe in our house - it's a tradition. Whether I'm making it for a busy weeknight dinner or taking it to a friend who needs some comfort food, it never fails to bring smiles to faces. The way the creamy sauce mingles with the tender chicken and that perfect crunch from the cornflake topping creates something that's greater than the sum of its parts.

Every time I make this, I'm reminded of why these classic recipes endure - they're reliable, comforting, and bring people together. That's what good cooking is all about: creating moments of joy around the table, one casserole at a time.

Common Questions About Cooking

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Just shred it and use as directed in the recipe.
→ What can I substitute for cornflakes?
You can use crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for the crunchy topping instead.
→ Can I make this healthier?
Try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayo, and low-fat cream soups for a lighter version.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole without the cornflake topping, cover and refrigerate. Add topping just before baking.
→ What sides go well with this casserole?
Serve with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole

A hearty casserole combining shredded chicken, creamy soups, and egg noodles topped with cheese and crispy cornflakes.

Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
35 minutes
Total Time Required
50 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Dinner Delights

Skill Level Required: Moderate Skills Needed

Cuisine Style: American

Recipe Output: 8 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You'll Gather

→ Main Ingredients

Contains 01 items 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Contains 02 items 2 cups egg noodles, cooked and drained
Contains 03 items 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
Contains 04 items 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

→ Creamy Elements

Contains 05 items 1 cup sour cream
Contains 06 items 1 cup mayonnaise
Contains 07 items 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

→ Seasonings

Contains 08 items 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Contains 09 items 1 teaspoon onion powder
Contains 10 items Salt and pepper to taste

→ Topping

Contains 11 items 1 cup crushed cornflakes
Contains 12 items 2 tablespoons butter, melted

→ Optional

Contains 13 items 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, both soups, sour cream, mayonnaise, and seasonings until well mixed

Step 03

Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles and diced tomatoes (if using) until evenly distributed

Step 04

Spread mixture in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, then top with shredded cheddar cheese

Step 05

Mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer

Step 06

Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving

Important Tips

  1. Can use rotisserie chicken for convenience
  2. Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream and mayo
  3. Perfect for make-ahead meals

Essential Tools

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains gluten
  • Contains eggs

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 420
  • Fat Amount: 25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Protein Amount: 22 g