- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, thawed hashbrowns, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, onion, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and optional crushed cornflakes on top for extra crunch.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage
Serving: Serve warm with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or dinner rolls.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips
- Use freshly cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Thaw frozen hashbrowns beforehand to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or peas, for added nutrition.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle paprika or garlic powder into the mixture.
Variations
- Bacon Cheddar Casserole: Add cooked bacon bits for smoky flavor.
- Spicy Version: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
- Mushroom & Swiss: Replace cheddar with Swiss cheese and add sautéed mushrooms.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with roasted vegetables or beans.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and golden hashbrowns. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a dish that will satisfy both family and guests, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
