Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole

Looking for a delicious dinner idea? Try Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole! This comforting dish features tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Get the recipe now and impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chicken, cooked, cut into small bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups pasta, cooked and drained (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni)
• 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 cheese, grated (cheddar, Colby jack, Swiss, or a combination)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Sauce:

• In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
• Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly, and cook for about a minute to form a roux.
• Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
• Add the sour cream and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens.
• Stir in 2 1/2 cups of grated cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine Ingredients:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
• Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the chicken and pasta mixture, and toss until well coated.

Bake the Casserole:

• Transfer the mixture to a prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheese over the top.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

FAQs:

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breasts?

• Yes, rotisserie chicken adds an extra depth of flavor to the casserole.

Can I use different types of pasta?

• Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes to suit your preference.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

• Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.

Can I freeze leftovers?

• Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I customize the cheese blend?

• Of course! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile.