Hashbrown Chicken Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Introduction

If you’re craving something hearty, creamy, and crowd-pleasing, look no further than this Hashbrown Chicken Casserole. It’s a classic comfort dish that brings together shredded chicken, crispy hashbrowns, melty cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping for a potluck, or just want something warm and satisfying, this casserole is always a hit.

This easy recipe is especially great for busy weeknights because you can use rotisserie chicken and frozen hashbrowns to cut down on prep time. It also freezes well, reheats like a dream, and can even be prepped ahead of time.

Explore more comfort food recipes just like this on rangermt.com!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick and easy to make – Minimal prep with store-bought shortcuts
✅ Perfect for meal prep – Bake ahead and reheat when needed
✅ Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will love it
✅ Great for potlucks and gatherings – Feeds a crowd
✅ Customizable – Add veggies, bacon, or spice to make it your own

Ingredients

You’ll need just a handful of pantry and freezer staples for this delicious casserole:

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup melted butter

• 1 cup crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2️⃣ Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.

Fold in the shredded chicken, thawed hashbrowns, and cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

3️⃣ Transfer to the Dish

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish.

4️⃣ Add Topping (Optional but recommended)

Mix the melted butter with crushed cornflakes or crushed Ritz crackers, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole. This adds a golden, crunchy finish.

5️⃣ Bake

Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Serving Ideas

This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is a full meal on its own but pairs well with:

• A simple green salad

• Steamed broccoli or green beans

• Dinner rolls or garlic bread

• A drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick

Tips for Success

Thaw the hashbrowns – Using frozen hashbrowns will water down the casserole. Make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry.
Shred the cheese yourself – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Use rotisserie chicken – It saves tons of time and adds flavor.
Double the recipe – Great for freezing or feeding a crowd.

Variations

Want to shake things up? Try these delicious twists:

• Buffalo Chicken Hashbrown Casserole – Add 1/2 cup buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.

• Bacon Ranch Chicken Casserole – Mix in ranch seasoning and cooked bacon pieces.

• Vegetable Hashbrown Bake – Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrients.

• Spicy Southwest Style – Add diced green chilies, black beans, and taco seasoning, then top with pepper jack cheese.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Make-Ahead:
Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.

Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 300°F until warmed through.

Freezer:
Freeze the fully baked casserole, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hashbrowns?
Yes, but shred them finely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

Is there a gluten-free version?
Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free crackers or omit the topping entirely.

Can I add cheese on top too?
Absolutely! Add an extra layer of shredded cheese 10 minutes before the casserole finishes baking.

Related Comfort Recipes

Love cozy meals like this? Check out more on rangermt.com:

• Cheesy Biscuit Breakfast Bake

• Creamy Bacon Corn Casserole

• Sausage Hashbrown Casserole

• Homestyle Chicken & Dumplings

And for more family-style casseroles, you’ll find great inspiration on AllRecipes.

Final Thoughts

This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is more than just an easy weeknight meal—it’s pure comfort in a dish. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy hashbrowns all baked together under a golden, cheesy crust, this dish will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.