Chicken Hashbrown Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

When you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying dish to feed your family or wow guests at a potluck, this Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect choice. With its creamy, cheesy filling and golden, crispy topping, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

The best part? It’s a breeze to prepare. Simply mix, layer, and bake to create a dish packed with flavor and texture. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this casserole is bound to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Prep: Quick and easy to assemble with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy cornflakes for the ultimate indulgence.
Versatile and Customizable: Perfect for using up leftover chicken or adding your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:
- 20 oz frozen hashbrowns (thawed if preferred)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 2 cups sour cream
- 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 lb shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 4 tbsp melted butter
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
Add the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and frozen hashbrowns to the mixture. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the prepared filling evenly in the greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Create the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.

Tips for Success

Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken.
Topping Alternatives: Swap cornflakes for panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for a twist.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole without the topping and store it in the fridge overnight. Add the topping just before baking.
Healthier Options: Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, or opt for a low-sodium cream of chicken soup for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with:

Green Salad: Add a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette for balance.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, carrots, or green beans for added nutrients.
Warm Rolls: Perfect for scooping up every bit of the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes to restore the crispy topping. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, but note that the topping may lose its crunch.
Freezing: Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Add the topping before baking.