This Cheesy Chicken & Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken. It’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

The crispy hashbrowns, combined with chicken and cheese, create a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family will love!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Large mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Spatula
Skillet (optional, for cooking chicken)

Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 medium-sized chicken breasts)
1 (26-ounce) bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed
1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup crushed cornflakes
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

If not already cooked, sauté chicken breasts in a skillet until cooked through and shred into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

Pour the chicken and hashbrown mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.

5. Prepare the Topping:

In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

6. Bake:

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect on its own or with a side of vegetables.

Recipe Tips

Chicken Options: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook the chicken breasts in a slow cooker for easy shredding.
Make it Spicy: Add a can of diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the casserole a spicy kick.
Make it Lighter: Use reduced-fat sour cream and a lighter cream of chicken soup to cut down on calories.

What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken & Hashbrown Casserole

Steamed Veggies: Serve with steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls to scoop up any extra cheese.
Simple Salad: A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the rich casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it as directed the next day, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if needed.

2. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

3. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze it before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Enjoy this Cheesy Chicken & Hashbrown Casserole, a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding the whole family!