Comfort in Every Bite
Description
Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is a rich, creamy, and satisfying comfort dish made with tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and plenty of melted cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, brunch gatherings, or potlucks where you want something warm and filling that everyone will love.
Introduction
This classic casserole brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that feels cozy and indulgent without being complicated. It’s easy to prepare, forgiving to customize, and ideal for using up leftover chicken. One bite delivers creamy sauce, soft potatoes, and gooey cheese with just the right amount of seasoning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a complete meal in one dish
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
Uses pantry-friendly ingredients
Creamy, cheesy, and deeply comforting
Easy to customize with vegetables or toppings
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
1 (30 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional topping
Crushed cornflakes or French fried onions for extra crunch
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Hashbrowns
Add the thawed hashbrowns, cooked chicken, and chopped onion to the bowl. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing just until combined. Reserve the remaining cheese for the topping.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. If using, add crushed cornflakes or French fried onions for extra texture.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Tips for Best Results
Use rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and convenience
Make sure hashbrowns are fully thawed to avoid excess moisture
For extra browning, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end
Season to taste depending on the saltiness of your soups
Variations
Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables
Swap cheddar for Colby-Jack or mozzarella
Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for heat
Use fresh grated potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freeze unbaked or baked casserole for up to 2 months
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad
Pair with steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli
Perfect with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day.
Can I use different soups?
Yes. Cream of celery or cream of onion also work well.
Is this good for brunch?
Absolutely. It’s hearty and filling, making it perfect for brunch or breakfast-for-dinner.
Conclusion
Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is the definition of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll return to whenever you need something warm, cozy, and guaranteed to please.