Chicken Hashbrown Casserole: A Comforting Breakfast Bake

Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, crispy hashbrowns, and a creamy, cheesy sauce into a delicious breakfast or brunch dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this casserole is easy to make ahead, making busy mornings more manageable. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast or a cozy weekend brunch, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and convenient – Uses frozen hashbrowns and pre-cooked chicken for minimal prep.
• Creamy and cheesy – A rich sauce with sour cream and cheddar cheese makes this dish irresistible.
• Great for meal prep – Easily make it ahead and refrigerate or freeze for later.
• Versatile – Can be customized with vegetables, different cheeses, or seasonings.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, shredded chicken, shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well coated.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top if desired.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with paprika and chopped green onions before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add vegetables – Mix in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Use different cheese – Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.
• Spicy kick – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
• Healthier version – Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, and substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.

Servings and Cooking Time

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 40-45 minutes
• Total time: 50-55 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap the baked or unbaked casserole in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes, you can shred fresh potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture before using them in this recipe.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can make a homemade version by combining butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk for a creamy consistency.

Can I add eggs to this casserole?

Yes! Whisk 4-6 eggs and mix them in with the other ingredients before baking for a heartier breakfast dish.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until bubbly and heated through.

What kind of chicken works best?

Any cooked chicken works, such as rotisserie chicken, grilled, or poached chicken breasts.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Definitely! Turkey is a great substitute, especially for a post-holiday meal.

Can I make this without dairy?

You can use dairy-free cheese, coconut milk instead of regular milk, and a dairy-free sour cream alternative.

How do I prevent the casserole from getting too dry?

Make sure to use enough sour cream and soup, and cover with foil if needed while baking.

Conclusion

Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, making it an excellent choice for a comforting breakfast bake. Easy to prepare and customize, this dish is ideal for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or meal prepping. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as a reheated leftover, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy!

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