Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to your dining table. This casserole is not just about flavor; it’s about creating memories with loved ones. If you’re looking for an easy, hearty meal, this chicken casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or those cozy gatherings.
Why Make This Recipe
There’s something truly special about Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite among families. This recipe offers a wonderful mix of tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a luscious sauce that wraps everything together beautifully.
Not only is it simple to whip up, but it can also be prepared ahead of time. This means you can simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat! Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this casserole is sure to impress. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste, making it endlessly versatile.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole
Creating this dish is straightforward, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels. Just follow these instructions, and you’ll have a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (for topping)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Lightly grease a casserole dish (about 9×13 inches) with cooking spray or butter.
- Pour the chicken mixture into the casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken layer in the casserole dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Success with Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole
- Cook the Chicken Ahead: Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time or prepare your chicken in advance.
- Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or broccoli based on your family’s preferences.
- Use Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the flavor of your casserole.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure that the center of the casserole is hot and bubbly before serving; this typically takes about 35 minutes.
Flavor Variations for Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Southwest Style: Incorporate black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a southwest twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in different types of cheese such as pepper jack or mozzarella for varied flavors.
- Healthy Option: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like dill or rosemary to bring a fresh flavor profile to your casserole.
Serving Suggestions for Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- A fresh garden salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a nutritious contrast.
- A bowl of warm soup to start the meal off.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole
To ensure this delicious casserole remains fresh after your meal:
- Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay good in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the unbaked casserole by wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Label it with the date and it should keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken can be a convenient alternative. Be sure to drain and rinse it to remove excess sodium before adding it to your casserole mixture.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs, or crushed gluten-free crackers. Also, check that your soup and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I substitute something for the mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise or want to make it lighter, you can use Greek yogurt or even low-fat sour cream instead. These alternatives will still keep your casserole creamy and delicious.
How can I make individual portions instead of a large casserole?
You can divide the mixture into ramekins or small baking dishes and adjust the baking time. Individual servings typically bake in about 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Can I add extra cheese to the recipe?
Of course! Cheese lovers can feel free to add extra layers of their favorite cheese on top before baking. Just be aware that this will increase the calorie count but definitely amp up the flavor!
Final Thoughts
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its simple preparation and comforting ingredients, it’s the perfect dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or an ordinary weeknight meal. Try making it your own with flavor variations and serving suggestions, and enjoy the heartwarming moments it brings to your table. Bon appétit!
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Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful chicken casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, combining tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a luscious sauce.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (for topping)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Lightly grease a casserole dish (about 9×13 inches) with cooking spray or butter.
- Pour the chicken mixture into the casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken layer in the casserole dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Consider using leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. You can customize the vegetables and use fresh herbs for flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American