So You’re Craving Something Tasty but Too Lazy to Spend Forever in the Kitchen, Huh? Same.
Let’s be real for a moment. Some days, the thought of cooking feels like preparing for an Olympic event. There are pots to wash, ingredients to chop, and oh, don’t even get me started on the pre-cooking workout you need to do just to muster the energy. But fear not my friend, because I’ve got just the solution for your culinary slump—a delicious chicken casserole that’s as easy as pie. Or at least easier than pie, and definitely way more forgiving. Grab your aprons, because this one is Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole, and it’s about to become your lazy weeknight superhero.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
Picture this: your friends and family are crowded around the dinner table, and there’s not a single plate left untouched. Everyone is raving about your chicken casserole while you casually sip your drink, acting like you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen for hours. It’s glorious, isn’t it? This casserole is so foolproof that even your pet goldfish could make it. Heck, I wouldn’t be surprised if my grandma could whip this up in her sleep. It’s creamy, cheesy, and best of all, it requires only a handful of ingredients. Just grab some stuff you probably already have in your pantry and fridge, and you’re good to go. It’s a win-win.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the lowdown on what you need to get started. These ingredients are so simple, you can probably recite them from memory after one or two practice runs. You’re welcome.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Seriously, leftovers can be glamorous too.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: This is the secret glue that holds your life together.
- 1 cup sour cream: For that dreamy, creamy goodness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Because cheese makes everything better.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: Get your vitamins in while pretending you’re making something healthy.
- 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs: Choose your crunchy topping destiny.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Because bland food is a crime.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Now your casserole will smell like you really know what you’re doing.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Same as above, but for onions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to rock? Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking. Don’t worry, the steps are straightforward, and your only workout today is lifting a spoon.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C): Don’t forget this step, or you’ll end up with a casserole that takes longer than your favorite sitcom.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper: Just toss it all in there. Mixing is your cardio for today.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish: If the dish isn’t greased, it’ll stick like your bad decisions.
- Top with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs: Go ahead, live your best life, and make it crunchy.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes: While you wait, consider what to binge-watch tonight because life’s about balance.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving: Patience my friend. You don’t want to burn your tongue and ruin your glorious moment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ah yes, the classic blunders that could turn your casserole dreams into casserole nightmares. Here’s what to keep in mind so you don’t end up with a sad, sad dish.
- Not preheating the oven: Rookie mistake. Preheating is like warming up for a race. You wouldn’t jump into a marathon without stretching, would you?
- Forgetting to grease the dish: If you don’t want your masterpiece to stick like glue, pay attention to this part.
- Using fresh veggies instead of frozen: Look, I get it. You want to be fancy, but this dish is not the time to show off. Frozen works perfectly and saves you cutting time.
- Adding too much salt: Nobody wants to be reminded of the ocean while eating their casserole. Go easy on the salt!
- Not letting it cool before serving: Your tongue will thank you later if you’d just wait a hot second.
Alternatives & Substitutions
Life happens, and sometimes you don’t have everything on the list. No worries, we got you. Here’s what you can swap in if you find yourself in a culinary pickle.
- Chicken: Don’t have chicken? Use turkey or even a can of tuna if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Cream of chicken soup: Swap it out for cream of mushroom or a cream of whatever soup is hanging out in the back of your pantry.
- Sour cream: Greek yogurt can do the trick if you’re trying to be healthy and hip.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: If you have fresh veggies you need to use, go for it! Just make sure you chop them small enough for even cooking.
- Potato chips: Got some cornflakes? Go wild. Crush ‘em up and toss them on top.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use margarine instead of butter: Well, technically yes, but why hurt your soul like that? Butter is fluffier and happier. Go for the good stuff.
Does it matter if my chicken is seasoned: Not really! But if it’s flavored like holiday spices, it might add a twist. Your call!
Can I make this ahead of time: Totally. Just make it and pop it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready. Casseroles are the gift that keeps on giving.
What if I have leftovers: You are living the dream. Just store it in the fridge, and it’ll taste even better the next day—if that’s even possible.
Is it kid-friendly: They’ll love it. Cheese, chicken, veggies, and crunchy bits? They’ll be begging for seconds.
Can I make this vegetarian: Yup! Just ditch the chicken and load up on some more veggies and maybe some beans.
Do I need to cover it while baking: Nah. Let it bask in the oven’s glow and admire its golden goodness.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it. A foolproof chicken casserole that’s not only friendly to your busy schedule but also delightful to your taste buds. Now is the time to get in your kitchen and wow someone with your culinary prowess, or just impress yourself while zipped up in your comfiest sweatpants. You’ve earned that moment. Give it a shot and unleash your inner Paula Deen. Go on, have fun, and don’t forget to share a bite, otherwise, what’s the point? Happy cooking!
Print
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A simple and creamy chicken casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
This casserole can be made ahead of time and baked when ready. Feel free to substitute with turkey or canned tuna if chicken is unavailable.