Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When life gets busy, nothing beats a dish that’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavor. Enter the Chicken Hashbrown Casserole, a hearty, cheesy delight that combines tender chicken, creamy hashbrowns, and a crunchy cornflake topping. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week.
The combination of creamy, savory filling and a golden, crispy top makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that requires minimal cleanup.
Key Features
- Effortless Prep: Mix, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for busy weekdays.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Ingredients
- 20 oz frozen hashbrowns: The foundation of this casserole, bringing texture and heartiness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds creamy, melty goodness.
- 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper: Essential for flavor balance.
- 2 cups sour cream: The creamy base for that rich texture.
- 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup: Provides depth of flavor (use a homemade version if preferred).
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 lb shredded cooked chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes: For a crispy, buttery topping.
- 4 tbsp melted butter: Combines with cornflakes for the ultimate crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, mix sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and frozen hashbrowns to the mixture, stirring until evenly coated.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
4. Create the Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Customize the Topping: Swap cornflakes for panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers.
- Make It Healthier: Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, or swap cream of chicken soup for a lower-sodium version.
- Freeze for Later: Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover tightly, and freeze. Add the topping just before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this comforting casserole with:
- A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Freshly baked rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
- A side of steamed broccoli for added nutrients.
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.
Ultimate Chicken Hashbrown Casserole – A Comfort Food Classic