Few dishes are as creamy, comforting, and soul-satisfying as Hash Brown Chicken Casserole. With its rich layers of tender shredded chicken, cheesy potatoes, and savory veggies all brought together in a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. It’s like a warm hug from the inside out! What makes it even better? You can whip it up in no time, toss it in the oven, and have a piping hot family meal ready in just about an hour.
A Family Favorite You’ll Make Again and Again
This casserole has a little bit of everything—crunchy topping, melty cheese, hearty chicken—and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover roasted chicken. If you love our Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bake, then you’ll definitely want to add this to your recipe rotation. It’s just as satisfying and even easier to prepare. Let’s dive into this creamy, crispy, cheesy delight!
What is Hash Brown Chicken Casserole?
So what exactly is Hash Brown Chicken Casserole? Think of it as the ultimate mashup of your favorite diner breakfast and classic chicken dinner. The name might sound like something off a brunch menu, but this dish has serious dinner credentials. It’s packed with comfort and flavor! The combination of hash browns and chicken may sound quirky at first, but trust me—it works like magic. And you know what they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Go ahead, make it once and watch everyone fall in love.
Why You’ll Love This Hash Brown Chicken Casserole
There are so many reasons to fall for this dish:
- Creamy, Cheesy Perfection: The combination of cheddar, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup creates a rich and irresistible texture that hugs every bite.
- Budget-Friendly and Filling: Using frozen hash browns, canned corn, and leftover roasted chicken means you’re stretching your dollar without sacrificing taste.
- Flavorful Extras: The peas, carrots, and sweet corn give it a sweet, savory balance and a pop of color. Add crunchy bread crumbs or Corn Flake crumbs on top for that extra bite.
If you’re a fan of our Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, this one’s a must-try next. Both deliver on ease and flavor, but this one brings the crunch and creaminess to a whole new level.
How to Make Hash Brown Chicken Casserole
Quick Overview
This recipe is wonderfully easy to pull together. With simple prep, everyday ingredients, and a 1-hour bake time, you’ll have a golden, bubbling casserole that’s great for weeknight dinners or potlucks. The creamy base, combined with crisp topping and hearty mix-ins, makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen hash brown potatoes, Southern Style
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup canned summer sweet corn
- 2 cups sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/3 cup milk
- 3 cups cooked, shredded roasted chicken
- Bread crumbs or Corn Flake crumbs (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Layer the Hash Browns: Spread the frozen hash brown potatoes evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, peas and carrots, corn, sour cream (or yogurt), cream of chicken soup, milk, and shredded chicken. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken mixture over the hash browns and spread it evenly.
- Add the Crunch: Sprinkle bread crumbs or Corn Flake crumbs on top for a crispy finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
What to Serve Hash Brown Chicken Casserole With
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can round out the meal with a few tasty sides:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette for freshness
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce
- A light fruit salad for a sweet, refreshing contrast
Top Tips for Perfecting Hash Brown Chicken Casserole
- Substitute Smart: No sour cream? Use plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Add a Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or paprika if you like a little heat.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 15 minutes to avoid drying out the top.
- Crunch Control: Use crushed Ritz crackers instead of crumbs for a buttery twist!
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If microwaving, cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, but make sure to shred and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake when ready.
Can I swap out the vegetables?
Definitely. Try green beans, chopped broccoli, or even mushrooms for variety.
Conclusion
Hash Brown Chicken Casserole is everything you want in a weeknight meal: creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-cozy. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of oven time, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Don’t wait—give it a try and let the comfort food magic begin!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen hash brown potatoes, Southern Style
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup canned summer sweet corn
- 2 cups sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/3 cup milk
- 3 cups cooked, shredded roasted chicken
- Bread crumbs or Corn Flake crumbs (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread frozen hash browns evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine cheese, salt, pepper, peas and carrots, corn, sour cream (or yogurt), cream of chicken soup, milk, and shredded chicken. Mix well.
- Pour the chicken mixture over the hash browns and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs or Corn Flake crumbs on top.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne for a kick. Store leftovers up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.