There’s something truly special about a warm casserole bubbling away in the oven—it’s not just a dish, it’s a whole feeling. Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole is one of those timeless recipes that wraps you in comfort like a cozy blanket. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight, a family gathering, or you just need to get a meal on the table without fuss, this recipe delivers every single time.

For so many of us, casseroles hold a sacred spot on the dinner table. They remind us of childhood evenings, potlucks at church halls, or that one neighbor who always made “the good kind” for bake sales. Paula Deen’s version is especially nostalgic. It’s creamy, hearty, and filled with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen—making it perfect for those days when you need a no-stress, satisfying meal.

It’s easy to see why this dish has stuck around for generations. There’s comfort in its simplicity, joy in every bite, and enough richness to make even leftovers exciting. Let’s dive in and bring a little Southern charm to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and easy: Just mix, layer, and bake—no fancy steps required.
• Comforting and filling: It’s loaded with tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and a golden, crisp topping.
• Family favorite: Even picky eaters tend to go back for seconds.
• Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for prepping the night before or freezing for busy weeks.
• Customizable: Great base for adding veggies, different cheeses, or extra herbs.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup cooked white rice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz), crushed
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

HOW TO MAKE PAULA DEEN’S CHICKEN CASSEROLE:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Preheat and prep.
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it or spritz with cooking spray. This helps keep cleanup easy and ensures your casserole won’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the base.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped celery, onion, rice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well blended. It might not look glamorous yet, but just wait—it turns into something magical.

Step 3: Spread it out.
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out with a spoon or spatula. This is the heart of the dish—the part that gets warm and bubbly in the oven.

Step 4: Cheese it up.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top in an even layer. The cheese melts into the casserole, adding richness and that irresistible golden finish.

Step 5: Add that crunchy topping.
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the cheese layer. This adds the perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy center.

Step 6: Bake to perfection.
Place your casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for about 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly around the edges.

Step 7: Rest and serve.
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set just a bit, making it easier to scoop and enjoy. Serve it up with a simple salad, steamed veggies, or even a piece of crusty bread.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience—it’s juicy, flavorful, and cuts down on prep time.
• Don’t skip the resting time! This helps the casserole firm up a little so it serves neatly.
• Want more veggies? Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or mushrooms before baking.
• Go gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers and soup alternatives.
• Double it up! Make a second batch and freeze for a future meal.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American
• Diet: Contains dairy, gluten

NOTES:

This casserole is a real crowd-pleaser and works wonderfully as a main dish. It’s also a great option for potlucks or taking to friends or family when someone needs a comforting homemade meal. You can easily play with the seasonings—try a dash of paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

(Per serving – approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 25g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 710mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

What can I use instead of crackers?
Breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes make great alternatives. Just mix with a bit of melted butter for that golden crunch.

Can I make it without rice?
Sure! You can swap the rice for cooked pasta or even quinoa for a different texture.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole – Creamy, Cozy & So Easy!
• Shrimp Oreganata: A Deliciously Savory Italian-American Classic
• Chicken Enchiladas: A Cozy Mexican-Inspired Delight
• Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: A Comfort Food

CONCLUSION

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole is one of those rare recipes that feels like home, no matter where you are. With every creamy, cheesy bite and buttery crunch, you’ll be reminded why simple food is often the best food. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just want something soul-satisfying after a long day, this dish brings warmth to the table in the most delicious way.

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