There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty chicken casserole. The creamy texture, the savory filling, the golden, crispy topping—this dish is more than just dinner; it’s nostalgia on a plate. And when it comes to comfort food, few names stand out quite like Paula Deen. Known for her rich Southern recipes and home-style approach to cooking, Paula Deen’s chicken casserole recipe is a tribute to warmth, family, and easy meals made with love.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner, preparing a dish for a potluck, or planning your weekend meal prep, this chicken casserole is your go-to solution. It’s flexible, quick to assemble, satisfying, and delicious down to the last bite. Best of all, it uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.
In this in-depth guide, you’ll find everything you need to create the perfect Paula Deen-style chicken casserole—from essential ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions to expert tips, creative variations, and smart storage solutions. Let’s dive in.
2. Why This Chicken Casserole is a Southern Classic
Casseroles are a cornerstone of Southern cooking. They’re affordable, simple, and comforting—all values that Paula Deen’s recipes uphold. But what sets this casserole apart is its rich, creamy filling made with sour cream, shredded cheddar, and cream of chicken soup, topped with a golden, buttery layer of crushed crackers.
Paula Deen’s take on this dish emphasizes simplicity and flavor, without unnecessary complexity. It’s this balance that has made it a go-to dinner for generations—and a favorite in both Southern households and kitchens across the country.
3. Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients that make this chicken casserole so indulgent and satisfying:
🐔 Main Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast – Shredded or diced. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – Adds creamy richness and depth.
- ½ cup sour cream – Brings tang and creaminess. Greek yogurt can also be used.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds gooey, melty flavor. Use sharp cheddar for more kick.
- ¼ cup whole milk – Helps thin the mixture slightly for smoother baking.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Subtle seasoning with big impact.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and adds depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust based on preference.
🧈 Crunchy Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30–35 crackers), crushed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Coats the crackers for a buttery crust.
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare the perfect chicken casserole:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Cheese
Fold in the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Fill the Baking Dish
Transfer the chicken mixture to the greased baking dish. Spread evenly using a spatula.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are well-coated.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and enhances the flavor.
5. Tips for the Perfect Chicken Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Taste the mixture before baking to ensure seasoning is balanced.
- Crush crackers in a zip-lock bag with a rolling pin for less mess.
- Add a layer of cheese on top of the crackers if you want extra gooeyness.
- For a crispier top, broil the last 2–3 minutes—but watch carefully!
6. Smart Ingredient Substitutions
No sour cream? No problem. Short on cheese? Here are easy substitutions that still work beautifully:
| Ingredient | Substitute |
|---|---|
| Sour Cream | Plain Greek Yogurt |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | Cream of Mushroom or Homemade White Sauce |
| Cheddar Cheese | Monterey Jack, Colby, Mozzarella |
| Ritz Crackers | Butter crackers, crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs |
| Whole Milk | Evaporated milk, 2% milk, or heavy cream |
7. Making It Ahead of Time
This casserole is perfect for prepping ahead. Here’s how:
- Assemble everything except the cracker topping.
- Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
- When ready to bake, remove from fridge, add topping, and bake as directed.
- Add an extra 5–10 minutes of baking time if it’s still cold.
You can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
8. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Have leftovers? Great! This casserole stores and reheats beautifully.
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Oven: Reheat covered at 300°F for 15–20 minutes. Add extra cheese or cracker topping if needed.
9. Easy Add-ins to Elevate Your Casserole
Want to add color, nutrients, or extra flavor? Try these:
- Steamed broccoli
- Frozen peas or corn
- Chopped spinach or kale
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Diced red peppers
- Cooked rice or pasta for a one-dish meal
10. What to Serve With This Chicken Casserole
Pair your casserole with these delicious sides for a well-rounded meal:
- Green beans almondine
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Garden salad with vinaigrette
- Southern-style cornbread
- Buttered dinner rolls
For drinks, iced tea, lemonade, or even a light chardonnay complements this dish beautifully.
11. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure casserole success:
- Undercooking: Make sure the center is hot and bubbly.
- Skipping seasoning: Taste the mix before baking.
- Soggy topping: Use dry, fresh crackers and mix thoroughly with butter.
- Overbaking: Stick to the time or watch during broil to prevent burning.
12. Nutritional Overview (Estimated Per Serving – 1/6 of dish)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Note: Values may vary based on brands and substitutions.
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use uncooked chicken?
No. Always use fully cooked chicken to ensure safe and proper cooking time. Uncooked chicken won’t cook evenly in this recipe.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Increase baking time by 10–15 minutes and cover with foil if browning too quickly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, but you can make it gluten-free by using:
- Gluten-free cream soup
- Gluten-free crackers
- Verified gluten-free chicken broth (if making your own base)
Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling.
14. Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s cozy, creamy, and crowd-pleasing, this Paula Deen-inspired chicken casserole hits every note. It’s a foolproof recipe perfect for busy nights, holiday potlucks, or anytime you need a hug in the form of food.
The simple ingredients, flexible preparation, and irresistible texture make this one of those recipes that earns a permanent spot in your family’s rotation. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why this dish continues to be a Southern staple and a comfort food favorite around the world.
