How to make Hashbrown Chicken Casserole




This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With shredded chicken, crispy hashbrowns, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this casserole is both satisfying and easy to make.


Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs)
  • 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Mix the Base

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, thawed hashbrowns, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
  2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 4: Add the Topping

  1. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter.
  2. Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color, if desired.

Tips for the Best Hashbrown Chicken Casserole

  1. Use Fresh or Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time, but leftover baked or grilled chicken works just as well.
  2. Customize the Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for a different flavor profile.
  3. Vegetable Add-Ins: Add diced bell peppers, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
  4. Crispy Topping Tip: Use cornflakes instead of crackers for an extra-crispy crust.

Why You’ll Love It

This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is:

  • Rich and Creamy: A luscious sauce coats every bite.
  • Cheesy and Satisfying: The perfect combination of cheese and potatoes.
  • Simple to Make: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
  • Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Serve alongside garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Enjoy with a cool, refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade.