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Chicken Hashbrown Cheese Casserole

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

Enjoy a comforting combination of tender chicken, shredded hashbrowns, and cheddar cheese baked together. Creamy elements like sour cream and milk create a luscious base, while buttery breadcrumbs on top add a deliciously crisp texture. Enhanced by green onions and a touch of seasoning, each serving brings hearty flavor and warmth. Easily adjustable with different proteins or additional spices, this dish makes a crowd-pleasing dinner and also reheats well for easy leftovers.

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A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Created By Sarah
Last updated on Mon, 26 May 2025 17:22:21 GMT
A dish with tomatoes and cheese. Save
A dish with tomatoes and cheese. | sarahmeal.com

This creamy chicken hashbrown casserole is my favorite answer to comfort cravings and busy weeknights. Every forkful is packed with melty cheese, fluffy potatoes, and juicy chicken, tucked under a crispy golden topping. I pull this out when I want everyone to gather around the table and feel at home.

My family always asks for seconds when I bring this to our Sunday dinner. It is the first dish to disappear at potlucks and was my secret weapon for getting picky eaters excited about dinner.

Ingredients

  • Shredded hashbrowns: These make the base of the casserole Choose the frozen variety for ease look for ones with only potatoes in the ingredients
  • Cooked chicken breast shredded: Go for moist poached or rotisserie chicken You can use leftovers for extra convenience
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds gooey melt and sharp flavor A fresh block shredded at home melts best
  • Sour cream: Gives a rich tang Creamy varieties work best Avoid fat free for more flavor
  • Milk: Loosens up the mixture Whole or two percent makes it extra creamy
  • Butter melted: Deepens flavor and richness Use real butter not margarine for best results
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: Season the dish evenly Choose fresh jars for potent flavor
  • Black pepper and salt: Complements and enhances everything Use kosher salt for even seasoning
  • Chopped green onions: Add a pop of color and a mild bite Pick vibrant green ones with no wilting
  • Breadcrumbs: Create a crunchy golden topping Use Panko for extra crunch or homemade for depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375 degrees F This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and develops a crispy topping
Mix Hashbrowns and Chicken:
Combine the shredded hashbrowns and cooked chicken breast in a large bowl Make sure to break up any clusters so they mix evenly
Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the cheddar cheese into the bowl and mix well so the cheese is distributed in every bite
Stir in Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the sour cream milk and melted butter Mix completely to coat everything with the creamy blend
Season Thoroughly:
Add garlic powder onion powder black pepper and salt Stir well so each spoonful tastes balanced and flavorful
Fold in Green Onions:
Gently stir in the green onions This keeps their crunch and brightness intact
Assemble in Baking Dish:
Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly from edge to edge
Prepare Breadcrumb Topping:
Mix breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter in a small bowl This step gives you a crisp golden finish
Top the Casserole:
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the surface making sure every spot is covered for consistent crunch
Bake:
Place the dish in the hot oven and bake for about thirty to thirty five minutes The casserole should be hot all the way through with a deep golden color on top
Cool Briefly:
Remove from the oven and let it rest five minutes so the layers set and slicing is easier
Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop generous portions while hot This is best shared around the table while still warm
A dish of food with a green topping. Save
A dish of food with a green topping. | sarahmeal.com

Every time I make this I remember how my dad would sneak extra cheese on top for the crunchiest bite The green onions bring a fresh note I just cannot skip because my sister always asked for more in her serving

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat single portions in the microwave for quick lunches The casserole holds up well if you bake it ahead but save adding the breadcrumb topping until just before the final bake if making in advance

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the chicken with cooked turkey for a holiday spin or use browned ground beef for a heartier twist You can use Greek yogurt for some of the sour cream if you want a bit more tang Monterey Jack cheese brings a milder flavor than sharp cheddar

A bowl of food with tomatoes and basil. Save
A bowl of food with tomatoes and basil. | sarahmeal.com

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli If you want a brunch version serve with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit For celebrations garnish the top with extra sliced green onions and a sprinkle of fresh herbs

Cultural Context

This dish is a classic American comfort food often served at church suppers and holiday gatherings The combination of potatoes cheese and chicken is a midwestern favorite and echoes the warmth of family meals through generations

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I substitute another meat for chicken?

Yes, cooked turkey or ground beef work well as alternatives to chicken. Adjust the seasoning to match your chosen protein.

→ What can I use for extra creaminess?

Adding an extra 1/4 cup of sour cream or replacing some with cream cheese will make the dish even creamier.

→ How do I achieve a crispier topping?

For a crunchier texture, use Panko or seasoned breadcrumbs and make sure to mix with melted butter before sprinkling on top.

→ Is this casserole suitable for leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

→ Can the casserole be made spicy?

Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture to bring heat to your dish as desired.

Chicken Hashbrown Cheese Casserole

Golden hashbrowns, savory chicken, and melted cheese offer a warm, satisfying dinner for friends and family.

Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Total Duration
60 minutes
Created By: Sarah

Recipe Category: Main Dishes

Level of Difficulty: Simple

Cuisine Style: American

Servings Yield: 8 Portion Size (One 33x23 cm casserole dish)

Diet Preferences: ~

What You'll Need

→ Main Mixture

Ingredient 01 900 g frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
Ingredient 02 700 g cooked chicken breast, shredded
Ingredient 03 200 g shredded cheddar cheese
Ingredient 04 240 g sour cream
Ingredient 05 180 ml whole milk
Ingredient 06 60 g unsalted butter, melted
Ingredient 07 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Ingredient 08 1 teaspoon onion powder
Ingredient 09 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient 10 1 teaspoon salt
Ingredient 11 60 g green onions, chopped

→ Topping

Ingredient 12 80 g breadcrumbs
Ingredient 13 15 g unsalted butter, melted

How to Make It

Instruction 01

Preheat the oven to 190°C.

Instruction 02

In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed shredded hashbrowns with shredded cooked chicken breast.

Instruction 03

Add shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and blend thoroughly.

Instruction 04

Stir in sour cream, whole milk, and melted unsalted butter until well combined.

Instruction 05

Season with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix to distribute the spices evenly.

Instruction 06

Gently fold in chopped green onions.

Instruction 07

Transfer the mixture evenly into a greased 33x23 cm baking dish.

Instruction 08

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 15 g melted butter until the mixture is coated.

Instruction 09

Evenly scatter the breadcrumb mixture over the surface of the casserole.

Instruction 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the dish is heated through.

Instruction 11

Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Instruction 12

Portion and serve warm.

Additional Tips

  1. For a richer texture, substitute part of the sour cream with cream cheese or increase the amount by 60 g.
  2. For added heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce with the seasonings.
  3. Use seasoned or Panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier topping.
  4. Chicken can be replaced with cooked turkey or ground beef for variation.
  5. Leftovers may be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days and reheated as needed.

Essential Tools

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 33x23 cm baking dish
  • Small bowl
  • Oven
  • Spatula or spoon for mixing

Allergy Details

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk and dairy products
  • Contains gluten in breadcrumbs

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

These nutritional details are for informational purposes and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat Content: ~
  • Carbohydrate Content: ~
  • Protein Content: ~