Hashbrown Chicken Casserole

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken breasts. You can either bake, boil, or pan-fry them. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. This will be the heart of your casserole, so make sure the chicken is tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. The mixture should have a creamy consistency with chunks of chicken and hashbrowns throughout.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Next, pour in the melted butter and mix again until evenly distributed. The butter helps bind the casserole and gives it a rich flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Spread the chicken and hashbrown mixture evenly into the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The casserole should be fully heated through, and the cheese on top should be melted and slightly browned.

Step 6: Add the Toppings

After the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, just until the cheese has fully melted.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables.

Tips for Success:

• Substitute Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken for ground turkey, cooked beef, or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Similarly, you can use frozen diced potatoes instead of hashbrowns for a slightly different texture.
• Make It Ahead: This casserole is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to eat. It also freezes well; just assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add some vegetables like broccoli, peas, or corn to make the dish even heartier and more nutritious.

Why You’ll Love Hashbrown Chicken Casserole

This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, filling, and incredibly flavorful, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings or family gatherings. The combination of creamy soup, tender chicken, and crispy hashbrowns creates a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, with minimal prep and ingredients, it’s a simple but impressive meal that everyone will enjoy.

So, if you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with a warm, cheesy, and hearty casserole, give this Hashbrown Chicken Casserole a try. It’s the kind of dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy!