Description
This Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal. Tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce are baked together to create a truly delicious casserole.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups cooked pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni), drained
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, Swiss, or a combination), divided
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make Sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk and sour cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 2 ½ cups of the cheese until melted.
- Combine Ingredients: Add cooked chicken, pasta, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of cheese. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Chicken: Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Pasta: Cook pasta al dente according to package directions before adding to the casserole.
- Cheese: Use your favorite type of cheese or a combination of cheeses.
- Spice: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake later. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 500kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
