Looking for the ultimate comfort food dinner idea that’s creamy, cheesy, and guaranteed to please the whole family? This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is the perfect solution. Loaded with tender shredded chicken, golden hashbrowns, a creamy sauce, and plenty of cheese, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. It’s the kind of cozy, all-in-one bake that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for Sunday family dinners.
With simple pantry and freezer staples like frozen hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, and shredded cheese, this casserole comes together with very little prep. Just mix, layer, bake, and serve—you’ll have a bubbling, golden-topped casserole on the table in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Family-friendly – Kids and adults both love the creamy, cheesy goodness.
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Easy prep – Uses frozen and canned ingredients to save time.
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Hearty & filling – Packed with protein, veggies, and potatoes for a full meal.
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Perfect for make-ahead – Assemble it early and bake later.
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Freezer-friendly – Great for meal prep or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredient Breakdown
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Frozen Southern-style hashbrowns (2 lb): Crispy potatoes form the hearty base of the casserole.
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Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melty and cheesy, this brings rich flavor to every bite.
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Frozen peas and carrots (1 cup): Adds color, sweetness, and extra nutrition.
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Sour cream (2 cups): Makes the filling extra creamy and tangy.
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Canned corn (½ cup, drained): Provides sweetness and texture.
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Cream of chicken soup (1 can): The secret ingredient that ties the filling together with a savory, creamy base.
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Shredded chicken (3 cups): A hearty protein that makes this casserole satisfying. (Rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
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Milk (⅓ cup): Loosens the mixture for the right creamy consistency.
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Bread crumbs (2 cups): Create a crunchy, golden topping.
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Salt & pepper: Enhances all the flavors.
Pro Tips
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Use rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and minimal prep time.
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Don’t skip the topping—the bread crumbs add crunch to balance the creamy filling.
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Shred cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded for better melt and flavor.
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Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.
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Cover with foil halfway through baking if the top browns too quickly.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
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Protein swap: Use turkey, ham, or even cooked sausage instead of chicken.
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Vegetable swap: Add broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers for more color and flavor.
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Soup variation: Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom or cream of celery.
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Cheese lovers: Try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
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Spicy kick: Add diced green chilies or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a meal on its own, but you can round it out with:
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A crisp green salad with ranch or vinaigrette.
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Garlic bread or dinner rolls.
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Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Make ahead: Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
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Freezing: Wrap the unbaked casserole in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
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Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Casseroles like this one became a staple in American kitchens in the mid-20th century, thanks to the rise of canned soups and frozen foods. This particular recipe echoes classic church potluck dishes from the South and Midwest, where creamy, cheesy casseroles reign supreme as comfort food classics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, just shred and drain fresh potatoes well before using to prevent excess moisture.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and swap the bread crumbs for a gluten-free alternative.
Can I use leftover Thanksgiving turkey?
Absolutely—this is a great way to repurpose cooked turkey.
Do I have to use sour cream?
You can replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Can I halve this recipe?
Yes, simply cut the ingredients in half and bake in an 8×8-inch pan.
Hashbrown Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, peas and carrots, sour cream, corn, cream of chicken soup, shredded chicken, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Layer the mixture over the hashbrowns.
- Top with bread crumbs and bake for 1 hour.
- Enjoy warm!
