Dinner

Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery October 14, 2025October 14, 2025

Introduction

Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is a comforting and cheesy dish that brings together tender chicken, pasta, and a rich cheese sauce. It’s perfect for a satisfying family dinner or meal prep that warms the soul.

The image shows a close-up of a baked dish in a white ceramic baking dish with a dark blue rim. The dish has two visible layers: the bottom layer consists of chunky pieces of white chicken mixed with yellow corn in a creamy sauce, while the top layer is a golden-brown melted cheese crust sprinkled lightly with green herbs. The cheese looks bubbly and slightly browned in spots, covering the whole surface evenly. The baking dish sits on a white marbled surface, with part of a plate and silver fork barely visible at the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cups cooked and drained pasta (about 2 cups uncooked; penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni recommended)
3 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons 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 topping
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly add the milk and sour cream, whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce.
Step 5: Add the cooked chicken, pasta, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the sauce, tossing everything together until evenly coated.
Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbling and golden brown.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add cooked vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms before baking.
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.
Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex, richer taste.
Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for this recipe and saves prep time.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until hot.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a chicken casserole in a white baking dish with a blue outer edge, showing three main layers: the bottom layer with tender, white chicken pieces, the middle layer made of creamy yellow pasta mixed with cheese sauce, and the top layer covered in golden melted cheese with a slightly browned, bubbly texture and sprinkled with small bits of green herbs. The casserole is thick and creamy with a soft, smooth surface under the browned cheese crust. The dish rests on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any sturdy pasta like penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi works best since they hold up well in the sauce and baking process.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.