Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole is the perfect comfort dish for busy evenings or family gatherings. Packed with creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and a crispy topping, it’s a classic southern-style casserole that delivers warmth and flavor in every bite. Simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and hearty, perfect for family dinners
- Quick and easy with minimal prep time
- Customizable with optional ingredients like tomatoes or extra veggies
- Great for leftovers — reheats beautifully
- Crowd-pleaser at potlucks and gatherings
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups egg noodles, cooked and drained
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup crushed cornflakes (for topping)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions
First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot by the time we’re ready to pop that casserole in!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with both cans of soup (the cream of chicken and cream of mushroom). Then, add your sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Give this mixture a good stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
Now, it’s time to fold in those cooked egg noodles! If you’re using diced tomatoes, gently mix those in too. Just be careful not to over-stir—you want everything to be incorporated without breaking up those noodles too much!
Take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread that delicious chicken mixture evenly in there. You want to make sure it’s nice and even for the best bake.
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. This is the best part, right? More cheese, please!
In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until they’re coated. This crunchy topping is going to add such a nice texture! Sprinkle that mixture over the casserole evenly.
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop, serve, and enjoy the delicious comfort of Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole!

Tips & Variations
- Chicken Substitute: Rotisserie chicken works great for extra flavor and ease.
- Veggie Boost: Add frozen peas, green beans, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a kick!
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in some Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as instructed (add ~10 mins extra if chilled).
Serving Suggestion
Pair this cozy casserole with:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread for extra comfort

Delicious Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Description
Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole is the perfect comfort dish for busy evenings or family gatherings. Packed with creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and a crispy topping, it’s a classic southern-style casserole that delivers warmth and flavor in every bite. Simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.
Ingredients
-
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
-
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
-
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
-
1 cup sour cream
-
1 cup mayonnaise
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
2 cups egg noodles, cooked and drained
-
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
1 tsp onion powder
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
1 cup crushed cornflakes (for topping)
-
2 tbsp butter, melted (for toppin
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are!
2. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
-
Shredded chicken
-
Cream of chicken soup
-
Cream of mushroom soup
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Sour cream
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Mayonnaise
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Garlic powder
-
Onion powder
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Salt & pepper (to taste)
Mix everything until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Noodles (and Tomatoes, Optional!)
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Gently fold in the cooked and drained egg noodles.
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If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them now.
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Stir just until combined—don’t overmix to keep the noodles intact.
4. Assemble the Casserole
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Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
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Spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
5. Add the Crunchy Topping
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In a small bowl, combine crushed cornflakes with melted butter.
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Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole for a crispy, golden finish.
6. Bake
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
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Let it cool for a few minutes.
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Serve warm and garnish with fresh herbs if desired!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes