Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Combining tender chicken, crispy hashbrowns, and a cheesy, crunchy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and full of flavor.

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

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 shredded cheddar cheese, thawed mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, and dried thyme. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
3. Step 3: Lightly grease a 7×11-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish. Spread the hash brown mixture evenly into the dish.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
5. Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Step 6: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or 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

• Substitute cooked turkey or ham for the chicken to change up the flavors.
• Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the mixture for extra aroma.
• Use fresh vegetables like peas and carrots if you prefer, adjusting cooking times slightly.
• For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. This helps keep the topping crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh shredded potatoes can be used, but make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.

Is it possible to prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 112 reviews

A comforting and hearty Chicken Hashbrown Casserole made with tender cooked chicken, crispy hash browns, mixed vegetables, creamy soup, and a cheesy Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, this baked casserole combines savory flavors and a satisfying crunchy topping.

• Author: Isla
• 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, 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

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 is hot and ready for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, diced cooked chicken, bacon bits, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, thawed mixed vegetables, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, and dried thyme. Stir everything together until well incorporated and evenly mixed.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 7×11-inch or similar-sized baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the prepared hash brown mixture evenly into the dish, smoothing the top for even baking.
4. Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, creating a crispy and cheesy crust when baked.
5. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step allows the ingredients to cook through and meld flavors while keeping moisture in.
6. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown, crisp, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes after baking. This helps it set for cleaner slices and enhances the flavors before serving. Enjoy your comforting chicken hashbrown casserole!

Notes

• You can substitute the mixed vegetables with your favorite veggies like peas, carrots, or corn.
• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the mixture.
• If you prefer less sodium, use low-sodium cream of chicken soup and reduced-sodium bacon bits.
• Make sure the hash browns and vegetables are thawed slightly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
• This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Keywords: Chicken hashbrown casserole, baked casserole, comfort food, chicken casserole, cheesy casserole, easy dinner recipe