Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting casserole to gather the family around the dinner table, and this Chicken Hashbrown Casserole fits the bill perfectly! Bursting with flavors and textures, every bite offers a delightful mix of tender chicken, creamy ingredients, and crispy topping. It’s not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, ideal for family dinners or potluck gatherings!
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cornflakes, crushed (for topping)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), letting it warm up while you prepare the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, diced onion, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated and creamy.
- Carefully pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure a delightful bake.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. Stir gently until the cornflakes are fully coated, creating that addictive crunch factor.
- Sprinkle the cornflake mixture over the top of the casserole, ensuring every bite gets that fantastic crispy topping.
- Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly with a beautiful golden brown topping.
- Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before diving in. This will ensure it’s easier to scoop and serves beautifully!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some sautéed bell peppers or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mix. This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking—just increase the cooking time if baking from cold. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses or include vegetables for added nutrition!
Cooking Techniques
This casserole is a delightful example of layering flavors and textures. The key technique here is mixing the creamy base thoroughly so that every bite is loaded with flavor. Baking at the right temperature ensures the dish cooks evenly and allows the topping to achieve that irresistible crunch. Also, making sure to let it rest after baking gives you a perfectly portioned slice.
FAQ
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes! You can quickly poach or sauté fresh chicken until cooked through, then shred it for the casserole.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the cornflakes with gluten-free crispy toppings or breadcrumbs.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a memory-maker for those cozy nights in. Rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious, it showcases comfort food at its finest—perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking. Your family will be asking for seconds!