Hashbrown Chicken Casserole

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the chopped onion (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole for extra crunch and flavor.

4. Bake the Casserole:

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. If you’re using cornflakes or breadcrumbs, they should be lightly browned and crispy.

5. Serve:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives it time to set and makes it easier to slice. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Chicken: For the quickest prep, use a rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken. If you prefer to cook the chicken yourself, poach or bake the chicken breasts, then shred them for the casserole.
• Hashbrowns: Make sure to thaw the hashbrowns before mixing them into the casserole. This helps them cook evenly and prevents excess moisture.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble it, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for an extra 10 minutes or so to account for the cold temperature.
• Variations: Feel free to add extra veggies like peas, broccoli, or bell peppers to the casserole for more color and nutrition. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for a blend of your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss.

Conclusion:

Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table, and it’s versatile enough to suit a variety of tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for a crowd, this casserole is sure to satisfy. It’s easy to make, hearty, and will quickly become a go-to recipe for busy nights when you need something filling and delicious. Enjoy the cozy warmth of this dish—it’s like a hug on a plate!