Chicken Casserole – Welcome to the world of comfort food! Get ready to dive into a cheesy, creamy, and utterly delicious experience with Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole. This recipe has all the elements to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich cheese sauce, this dish is a winner on all fronts. Whether you’re a fan of Paula Deen or simply looking for a comforting family meal, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Picture this: it’s a cozy Sunday evening, and the aroma of a delectable casserole fills the air. The entire family gathers around the table, eagerly awaiting their first bite of Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole. As they dig in, their eyes widen with delight, and the room fills with sounds of satisfaction. This recipe has become a cherished tradition in our household, passed down from generation to generation.
One memorable evening, my husband took the first bite and exclaimed, “This is pure comfort in every mouthful!” It was then that we realized the magic of this dish. From that moment on, our little family couldn’t get enough of this casserole. It became a symbol of togetherness, a meal that brought us closer as we shared stories and laughter around the dinner table. This recipe has a special place in our hearts, and we hope it becomes a beloved staple in your household too.
Why This Cheesy Chicken Casserole?
- Creamy Perfection: Indulge in the velvety cheese sauce that envelops every bite of this casserole, creating a symphony of flavors.
- Chicken Bliss: Tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken add a savory twist to this dish, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.
- Pasta Pleasure: Choose your favorite pasta, whether it’s penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni, and enjoy its perfect al dente texture, absorbing the delightful flavors of the casserole.
- Family-Approved: Tried and tested, this recipe has won over hearts and taste buds, making it a beloved choice for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
- Simple and Quick: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this casserole in no time, leaving you with more precious moments to spend with your loved ones.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small bite-sized pieces (about 450 grams)
- 4 cups cooked and drained pasta (approximately 200 grams uncooked); penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni work well
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups grated cheese (cheddar, Colby jack, Swiss, or a combination), with 1/2 cup reserved for sprinkling on top (about 340 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn golden and fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about a minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce. Stir in the sour cream and continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
Add 2 1/2 cups of the grated cheese to the sauce, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for later. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes velvety and creamy.
Toss in the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
Transfer the mixture into a prepared baking dish (approximately 9 x 13 inches).
Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of grated cheese over the top of the casserole, allowing it to create a golden, bubbly crust.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese starts bubbling and turns a glorious shade of golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible cheesy goodness!
Notes:
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to create your own unique flavor profile.
- If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
In conclusion, Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is a tried-and-true recipe that brings comfort, satisfaction, and a burst of flavor to your table. Its creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, hosting a gathering with friends, or simply looking for a comforting meal after a long day, this casserole delivers on every level.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With easily accessible ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Plus, the option to customize the cheese combination and add your favorite veggies allows you to make it uniquely yours.
So, gather your loved ones, create lasting memories, and enjoy the heartwarming experience of savoring Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole. With every bite, you’ll be transported to a world of pure comfort and culinary bliss. It’s time to indulge in this beloved family favorite and make it a staple in your own kitchen. Bon appétit!
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! The beauty of this casserole is its versatility. You can use cheddar, Colby jack, Swiss, or even a combination of your favorite cheeses to add your own personal touch.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly, as the dish may need a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s chilled.
Can I substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It will still provide the creamy texture and a tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Of course! If you want to add some veggies to make it more wholesome, feel free to incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas. Simply sauté them along with the onions and garlic before proceeding with the recipe.
![](https://8fivefive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Chicken-Casserole-360x361.jpg)
Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken cut into small bite-sized pieces (about 450 grams)
- 4 cups cooked and drained pasta approximately 200 grams uncooked; penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni work well
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups grated cheese cheddar, Colby jack, Swiss, or a combination, with 1/2 cup reserved for sprinkling on top (about 340 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn golden and fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about a minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce. Stir in the sour cream and continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Add 2 1/2 cups of the grated cheese to the sauce, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for later. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes velvety and creamy.
- Toss in the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer the mixture into a prepared baking dish (approximately 9 x 13 inches).
- Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of grated cheese over the top of the casserole, allowing it to create a golden, bubbly crust.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese starts bubbling and turns a glorious shade of golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible cheesy goodness!
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