If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that the whole family will love, this Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is a must-try! It combines tender chicken, crispy hashbrowns, creamy ingredients, and a savory blend of spices, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or need a comforting meal for a special gathering, this casserole recipe is simple, satisfying, and always a hit. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making this easy, cheesy chicken casserole!
Ingredients for Hashbrown Chicken Casserole
To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Preparation
Before we get into the cooking process, let’s get a few things ready.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by cooking the chicken breasts. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, then cook them for about 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet, and let it rest for a few minutes. Once it has cooled slightly, cut the chicken into small cubes or shred it, depending on your texture preference.
Step 2: Prep the Casserole Base
While the chicken is cooking, you can start assembling the casserole base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. This will create a creamy, flavorful mixture that will coat the hashbrowns and chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Combine Hashbrowns and Chicken
Add the frozen hashbrowns to the casserole mixture and stir to combine. Since you’re using frozen hashbrowns, there’s no need to thaw them first! The hashbrowns will cook through in the oven, becoming crispy and golden brown in the process.
Once the hashbrowns are well mixed with the creamy sauce, fold in the cooked chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed. The chicken should be fully coated in the creamy mixture, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the hashbrown and chicken mixture into the baking dish and spread it evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese for a golden, cheesy crust.
Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. If you like a crispier top, feel free to bake it a bit longer, but make sure the casserole is cooked all the way through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is ready, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set before serving. This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is best enjoyed warm, and it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Making the Best Hashbrown Chicken Casserole
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time or prefer a shortcut, feel free to use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked, shredded, and ready to go! Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before adding it to the casserole.
- Customize with Veggies: This casserole is very versatile. You can add vegetables like peas, corn, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrients. Simply stir them into the mixture before baking.
- Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses. Adding a bit of Parmesan on top can also enhance the flavor.
- Make It Ahead of Time: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover the dish with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for meal prepping!
- Adjust the Seasonings: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the casserole mixture. For a richer flavor, try using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole
This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is a favorite for many reasons:
- Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have this dish ready in just under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. The combination of chicken, cheese, and crispy hashbrowns is always a hit, making it a great choice for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings with friends.
- Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like frozen hashbrowns, chicken, and canned soup, this recipe doesn’t break the bank, making it a great choice for budget-conscious cooks.
- Versatile: Whether you’re looking to add more vegetables or switch up the cheese, this casserole is incredibly adaptable. You can make it your own!
Conclusion
This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that you’ll want to make over and over again. It’s perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or just when you want a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both easy and delicious. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy hashbrowns, it’s a complete meal in one dish. Try it today and see why this casserole is a family favorite!