Hashbrown Chicken Casserole

About This RecipeHashbrown Chicken Casserole is a savory baked dish that combines shredded potatoes, cooked chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It is a classic comfort food often served as a hearty main course.Why You’ll Love This RecipeThis recipe utilizes simple, readily available ingredients. The method is straightforward, involving mixing and baking, which makes it an accessible dish for various cooking skill levels. The result is a cohesive, flavorful casserole with a soft interior and a browned, textured top.Ingredients1 (30 ounce) package frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup1 (8 ounce) container sour cream1 cup milk1 small yellow onion, finely diced2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided1/2 teaspoon garlic powder1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon black pepper2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed3 tablespoons butter, meltedStep by Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, diced onion, 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.In a small bowl, toss the lightly crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown.Remove from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.FAQCan I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen? Frozen hash browns are recommended for their texture and moisture content, which is calibrated for this type of casserole. Using fresh, grated potatoes may release excess water and alter the final result.What is the best way to cook the chicken? The chicken can be boiled, roasted, or sautéed until no longer pink inside and fully cooked through. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is also a common and effective option.Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole without the cornflake topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if the dish is started cold from the refrigerator.You Must KnowIt is crucial to ensure the frozen hash browns are fully thawed before mixing. Using frozen hash browns will significantly increase the baking time and can result in an unevenly cooked casserole. Letting the casserole rest after baking allows the structure to set, making it easier to portion and serve.Storage TipsAllow leftover casserole to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.