Creamy Hashbrown Chicken Casserole: A Quick and Easy Family Favorite
Looking for a hearty meal that’s quick, easy, and family-approved? This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole will quickly become a staple in your kitchen! Combining tender chicken, creamy hashbrowns, and a crispy golden topping, this casserole is comfort food at its finest. It’s the perfect one-pan dinner for busy nights, potlucks, or when you need something warm and satisfying.
Let’s learn how to make this fuss-free, crowd-pleasing casserole with simple steps and ingredients!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Fuss Cooking: Made with pantry staples and minimal prep.
- One Dish to Clean: Simple to bake and serve in one dish.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or parties.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble it in advance for a hassle-free mealtime.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy and cheesy casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 3 cups frozen hashbrowns (thawed)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Add the Chicken and Hashbrowns
Stir in the cooked chicken, thawed hashbrowns, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle the breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes over the top.
Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve warm!
Tips for Success
- Thaw Hashbrowns Completely: Thawed hashbrowns cook more evenly and keep the casserole from being watery.
- Save Time: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to make this dish even faster.
- Cheesy Variations: Add mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a richer flavor.
- Crispy Topping: For extra crunch, mix breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling on top.
Serving Ideas
This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is a full meal on its own, but you can pair it with these sides for a complete dinner:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots complement the creamy texture.
- Simple Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Dinner Rolls: Serve with warm, buttered rolls for an extra cozy meal.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
- To Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake as instructed when ready.
- To Store Leftovers: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
Why This Recipe Works
This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce binds the hashbrowns and chicken together, while the cheesy topping and crispy breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch. It’s a versatile, make-ahead dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table—whether for a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering.
Final Thoughts
This easy Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comfort food without the fuss. With its creamy, cheesy texture and hearty flavors, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to family favorite.
Make it today, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that brings everyone together!