Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for any meal. With tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and a cheesy topping, it combines classic flavors into a satisfying bake that families love.

Ingredients

• 3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed slightly, about 8 ounces)
• 2–3 cups cooked chicken (diced)
• ¼ cup bacon bits
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup milk
• 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (thawed slightly)
• ⅛ teaspoon dried thyme
• 12–14 Ritz crackers (about half a sleeve, crushed, for topping)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the hash browns, diced chicken, bacon bits, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, and dried thyme. Stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Step 3: Lightly grease a 7×11-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish. Spread the hash brown mixture evenly in the dish.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
5. Step 5: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Step 6: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Step 7: Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and bacon bits, and add more vegetables or beans.
• Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different twist.
• Crush the topping crackers finely to create a crispier crust.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes, to keep the topping crispy. You can also freeze the casserole before baking; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes shredded and lightly cooked to reduce moisture. Make sure they are well drained before mixing to avoid a soggy casserole.

Is it necessary to cover the casserole while baking?

Covering the casserole for the first baking period traps moisture and ensures the filling cooks evenly. Removing the cover at the end helps the topping become golden and crispy.

Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 69 reviews

This Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender chicken, crispy hash browns, and mixed vegetables in a creamy sauce, topped with a crunchy cheddar and Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a family gathering.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups frozen hash browns (about 8 ounces, thawed slightly)
• 2–3 cups cooked chicken (diced)
• ¼ cup bacon bits
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup milk
• 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (thawed slightly)
• ⅛ teaspoon dried thyme

Topping

• 12–14 Ritz crackers (about half a sleeve, crushed)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole.
2. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the slightly thawed hash browns, diced cooked chicken, bacon bits, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, thawed mixed vegetables, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, and dried thyme. Stir everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 7×11-inch (or similar size) baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the prepared hash brown mixture evenly in the dish, smoothing the surface.
4. Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese until combined. Sprinkle this evenly over the top of the casserole mixture in the baking dish.
5. Bake (Covered): Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step allows the casserole to cook through and the flavors to meld while keeping moisture inside.
6. Bake (Uncovered): Remove the foil and continue baking the casserole for an additional 15 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges, indicating it’s fully cooked.
7. Rest and Serve: Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps it set for easier serving and enhances the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty chicken hashbrown casserole.

Notes

• You can substitute cooked turkey or ham for the chicken if desired.
• For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
• Fresh mixed vegetables can be used instead of frozen if preferred; just adjust cooking time slightly.
• Make sure to slightly thaw the hash browns and vegetables to prevent excess water in the casserole.
• This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and refrigerated before baking.
• If you like a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the mixture.

Keywords: Chicken casserole, hashbrown casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, easy dinner, chicken hashbrowns, cheesy casserole, freezer meal