Ultimate Chicken Hashbrown Casserole – A Family Favorite Comfort Food
When life gets busy, comfort food can save the day, and this Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is the answer to your dinner dilemmas! Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy on top, this casserole is packed with tender shredded chicken, hashbrowns, and a flavorful blend of sour cream and cream of chicken soup. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing for a potluck, this dish is always a hit!
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Simple Ingredients: Most items are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up in no time.
- Crowd Pleaser: This casserole’s cheesy, crispy topping is irresistible to kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings or add veggies to make it your own.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and bake when needed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 20 oz frozen hashbrowns (defrosted)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 2 cups sour cream
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 lb shredded cooked chicken
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed corn flakes
- 4 tbsp melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, hashbrowns, and cheddar cheese until well incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with melted butter until fully coated.
- Sprinkle the buttery cornflakes over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Thaw the Hashbrowns: Be sure to thaw and pat dry the hashbrowns to prevent excess moisture.
- Make It Cheesy: Add an extra half cup of cheddar on top for an ultra-cheesy casserole.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. For a special occasion, serve it alongside garlic bread or rolls for the ultimate comfort food feast.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Cover leftovers tightly or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the mixture.
- Healthier Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and swap cream of chicken soup for a low-fat version.
- Different Toppings: Replace cornflakes with crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a variation in texture.