Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole Recipe

This hearty and creamy chicken casserole, inspired by Paula Deen, combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich cheese sauce, making it a comforting dish perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups cooked pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 1/2 cups grated cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, Swiss, or a combination), divided
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Prepare Cheese Sauce:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream and 2 cups of the grated cheese until melted and well combined.
   • Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine.
   • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake:
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheese over the top of the casserole.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to let it set.
   • Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

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Tips for a Delicious Chicken Casserole

1. Pasta Choice: Use sturdy pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni to hold up well in the casserole.
2. Cheese Variety: Mixing different cheeses can enhance the flavor; consider combining cheddar with Swiss or Colby Jack.
3. Add Vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.