Paula Deen Chicken Casserole – Creamy Southern Comfort Dinner
Try this Paula Deen Chicken Casserole for the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort food. Easy to make, family-friendly, and full of Southern flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped (rotisserie works beautifully)
- 4 cups s cooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi)
- 3 tbsp s unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred for richness)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3½ cups shredded cheese (divided) – cheddar, Colby Jack, or a blend
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives for color
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for crunch
Instructions
- Preheat the OvenPreheat to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté the AromaticsIn a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and fragrant — about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. The goal here is a mellow, golden base that anchors the flavor.
- Make the Creamy Cheese SauceSprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir for about a minute to remove the raw taste.Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened.Reduce the heat, then stir in sour cream, 3 cups of cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.Keep whisking until everything melts into a silky sauce that clings to your spoon.
- Combine Chicken, Pasta, and SauceIn a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped chicken, and the cheese sauce. Toss gently until every piece is coated in that rich, creamy goodness.
- Assemble and BakeSpread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheese on top — or more if you love that golden crust.Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbling and lightly browned on top.
- Rest and ServeLet the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. It’ll thicken slightly and cut more cleanly.