Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This hearty casserole combines tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy hashbrowns, all topped with melted cheese. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture and the crispy, cheesy topping make it an irresistible comfort food that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Hashbrown Chicken Casserole
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 package (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add Chicken and Hashbrowns: Fold in the shredded chicken, thawed hashbrowns, chopped onion, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add Topping (Optional): If using, sprinkle the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs over the cheese for added crunch.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Hashbrown Chicken Casserole
- Thaw the Hashbrowns: Make sure to thaw the hashbrowns completely before mixing to ensure even cooking.
- Use Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and saves time. You can also use leftover cooked chicken.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Adding crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs gives the casserole a nice crunchy texture on top.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Hashbrown Casserole: Add 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables, such as peas and carrots, for added color and nutrition.
- Bacon Cheddar Casserole: Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for extra smoky flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze Hashbrown Chicken Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Green Salad: Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- With Dinner Rolls: Pair with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to complete the meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy chicken, crispy hashbrowns, and melted cheese in one delicious dish. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family dinner. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste, and enjoy this comforting, hearty dish with your loved ones. It’s a recipe that’s guaranteed to bring everyone to the table with a smile!
