If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both hearty and easy to prepare, this Easy Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining succulent shredded chicken with crispy hashbrowns, creamy soup, and melty cheddar cheese, this casserole delivers all the cozy vibes and delicious flavors you crave on busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The golden cornflake topping adds that perfect crunch that makes every bite an irresistible delight. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet each plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures you’ll love. From the tender shredded chicken to the crunchy cornflake topping, every element works together harmoniously to deliver a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
- 20 oz frozen hashbrowns: The crispy base that provides hearty texture and comfort.
- 1 lb cooked chicken (shredded): Adds protein and a savory depth of flavor.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts richly to bring gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 2 cups sour cream: Lends creaminess and a slight tang to keep it balanced.
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup: The secret sauce that ties everything together with savory richness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Softens the mixture and helps achieve the perfect casserole consistency.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the lovely flavors.
- Cornflakes for topping: Crushed and mixed with butter, they add crunch and golden color.
How to Make Easy Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly when baked.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the salt, pepper, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and milk. This mixture forms the luscious, creamy base that will hold all the ingredients together and make every bite deliciously moist.
Step 3: Add Chicken, Cheese, and Hashbrowns
Gently fold in the shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen hashbrowns into the cream mixture. Make sure everything is evenly coated so that the flavors are balanced throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top so it bakes evenly and looks inviting once golden and bubbly out of the oven.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Topping
Crush some cornflakes and mix them with melted butter. This simple topping adds an incredible crunch and gorgeous golden brown finish. Sprinkle it generously over the casserole before baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for about 60 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and crisp. This baking time allows the flavors to meld together, while the hashbrowns soften perfectly within the creamy chicken and cheese blend.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions or parsley add a pop of color and a fresh, bright bite that complements the richness of the casserole wonderfully. A light sprinkle of paprika can also enhance its visual appeal and hint at subtle smoky undertones.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables creates a satisfying, balanced meal. Simple sides like roasted broccoli or a tangy coleslaw also work beautifully by cutting through the creamy texture of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions, making it perfect for potlucks or dinner parties. You can also layer some sliced avocado or a drizzle of hot sauce on top to add a fun twist. For brunch, add a dollop of salsa or sour cream to offer a Mexican-inspired flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Easy Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe has cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed, adding a little extra time if necessary.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a convenient meal, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the topping crisps back up. This method preserves the delicious textures and flavors perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
Fresh shredded potatoes can work, but frozen hashbrowns are preferred for their texture and convenience. If using fresh, be sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
What type of chicken is best for this casserole?
Any cooked chicken works well—rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or boiled chicken breast shredded finely are all great options to ensure tenderness and flavor.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes! You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different twist. For a homemade option, make a simple roux with chicken stock and cream to control ingredients and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely. This Easy Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is perfect for making ahead and storing, making busy weeknights much easier with a ready-to-bake meal.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or mix in some hot sauce to the creamy base before baking. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together comfort food favorites in one unbeatable dish. Its creamy texture, melty cheese, and irresistible crunchy topping make it a winner every time you serve it. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and get ready to fall in love with this cozy casserole!
Print
Easy Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish combining tender shredded chicken, crispy hashbrowns, and a creamy mixture of sour cream and cream of chicken soup. Topped with buttery crushed cornflakes for added crunch, this casserole makes a perfect hearty meal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz frozen hashbrowns
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups sour cream
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- Cornflakes, crushed (amount enough for topping, about 1 to 1.5 cups)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix salt, pepper, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth. Then fold in the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen hashbrowns. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the mixture into the pan and spread it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Make topping: In a small bowl, combine crushed cornflakes with melted butter to coat them evenly. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the casserole to add a crunchy golden crust.
- Bake casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbly and the cornflake topping turns a beautiful golden brown, indicating it’s cooked through.
Notes
- Use thawed hashbrowns for even cooking and better texture.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead, refrigerated, and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
