Cheesy Hashbrown Chicken Casserole

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🍽️ Cheesy Hashbrown Chicken Casserole Recipe

🕒 Total Time: ~1 hour

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 8

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🧀 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie or baked chicken works great)

• 1 (30 oz) bag of frozen hashbrowns (shredded or diced), thawed

• 1 (10.5 oz) can of cream of chicken soup

• 1 ½ cups sour cream

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)

• ½ cup chopped onion (optional)

• ½ cup melted butter (1 stick)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Salt to taste

Optional Topping:

• 1 ½ cups crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers

• 2 tbsp melted butter

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🔧 Directions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of butter.

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Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Cream of chicken soup

• Sour cream

• Melted butter

• Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

• Chopped onion (if using)

Stir well until creamy and smooth.

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Step 3: Add the Main Ingredients

Fold in:

• Thawed hashbrowns

• Cooked chicken

• 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese

Mix until everything is evenly combined.

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Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top.

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Step 5: Add Optional Crunchy Topping

If using:

• Mix crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers with 2 tbsp melted butter

• Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole

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Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until:

• The casserole is hot and bubbly

• The top is golden brown and slightly crispy

If you added a crunchy topping, the edges should be crispy.

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Step 7: Serve

Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to set. Serve with a side salad, steamed veggies, or rolls.

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🔁 Substitutions & Tips

• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

• Cream soup alternatives: Substitute cream of chicken with cream of mushroom or cream of celery.

• Low-fat option: Use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add veggies like peas, bell peppers, or broccoli.

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🧊 Storage

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze unbaked or baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.