There’s something positively comforting about a casserole with hash browns and chicken. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with hearty flavors, yet unbelievably easy to throw together. With just a few simple ingredients and five minutes of prep, you can have this delicious dish in the oven, no complicated steps, no hassle!
Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast, a cozy brunch, or a satisfying dinner, this hashbrown casserole with chicken is a game-changer. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is effortless to make, perfect for busy days when you still want something homemade and delicious.
Table of contents
Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Perfect for All Occasions: Serve it at brunch or a hectic weekday dinner, and watch everyone ask for seconds.
- Effortless 5-Ingredient Delight: This chicken casserole with hash browns is as simple as mix, bake, and enjoy! No fuss, no fancy steps, just big flavor with minimal effort, perfect for busy days.
- A Kid’s Favorite: The creamy, cheesy goodness of this chicken casserole with hash browns makes it a surefire winner, even for those who usually turn up their noses at casseroles. It’s comforting, familiar, and packed with flavors everyone loves!
Once, my neighbor popped by unexpectedly, and I whipped up this easy chicken and potato casserole using leftover veggies. She raved about how hearty and delicious it was, proving this recipe’s crowd-pleasing power.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Shredded cheese: This blend usually includes cheddar, Monterey Jack, or similar varieties. It melts beautifully.
- 20 oz Frozen shredded hash browns: They form the foundation of the dish. Thaw slightly for even cooking.
- 1 cup Sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess, balancing the richness.
- 6 Eggs: Binds everything into a cohesive, savory bake.
- 2 cups Cooked diced chicken: Use leftover rotisserie or quickly pan-sear your own. Aim for bite-sized chunks.
- ½ teaspoon Salt : Subtle seasoning that accentuates each component.
- ½ teaspoon Pepper: A gentle kick that rounds out flavors.
- ½ teaspoon Garlic powder – Boosts the savory depth and pairs well with chicken and cheese.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Italian herbs – A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme for a subtle herby touch.
This assortment of simple ingredients creates an effortlessly satisfying chicken hash brown casserole. The tang of sour cream and the mild spice of pepper unify everything into a tantalizing meal. Anyone can throw these together to transform a few pantry items into a comforting casserole with hash browns and chicken.
Substitutions
Sometimes you may need to adapt your chicken casserole with hash browns to dietary requirements, flavor preferences, or ingredient availability. Below are practical ways to substitute key items without losing the core essence of a hearty cheesy chicken and potato bake.
- Cheese
- Cheddar: A classic that works well in any chicken hash brown casserole. Its sharpness elevates the savory profile.
- Mozzarella: Milder in taste, but still melts gloriously. Consider adding a pinch of Parmesan for extra zing.
- Gruyère: For a nutty twist, Gruyère brings a unique flavor dimension to your casserole with hash browns and chicken.
- Sour Cream
- Greek Yogurt: Similar tang and creaminess, making it a perfect stand-in that also offers extra protein.
- Cottage Cheese (blended): If you need a lower-fat choice, blending cottage cheese can replicate a similar texture.
- Chicken
- Turkey: Works especially well post-holidays. The mild flavor blends seamlessly into hashbrown casserole with chicken adaptations.
- Ham: Adds a salty, smoky kick. Dice small to distribute flavor evenly.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian version, press it to remove moisture, then season well before folding into your casserole with hash browns and chicken.
- Eggs
- Egg Whites Only: If you’re watching cholesterol, using just egg whites keeps the texture light.
- Flax Eggs: For a plant-based approach, whisk ground flaxseed with water to form an egg-like binder. Keep in mind the flavor may be slightly nuttier.
- Hash Browns
- Freshly Grated Potatoes: Soak them briefly in cold water, then pat dry to remove excess starch.
- Sweet Potatoes: They add a slightly sweet undertone that complements the savory ingredients in your chicken casserole with hash browns.
- Cauliflower Florets (riced): Ideal for lower carb needs. Par-cook them first so they bind nicely with the eggs and chicken.
With these substitutions, you can adapt your crispy potato and chicken casserole while retaining a delightful balance of flavors. Whether it’s a dietary restriction, a taste preference, or simply making use of what’s already in the fridge, these options keep you from missing out on a soul-warming casserole with hash browns and chicken.
How to Make chicken and hash brown casserole
Time needed: 40 minutes
Here’s a step-by-step guide to assembling this comforting dish. Each stage ensures your hashbrown casserole with chicken bakes up golden, bubbly, and irresistibly enticing.
- Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Gather all your ingredients for easy assembly.
- Mix Eggs and Sour Cream
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs until smooth. This forms the creamy base that holds the casserole together.
- Layer the Ingredients
Spread thawed hash browns (20 oz) evenly in the baking dish. Add 2 cups cooked, diced chicken, followed by 1¼ cups shredded cheese (reserve ¾ cup for topping). If using add-ins like spinach or bell peppers, layer them now.
- Top and Cover
Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil to help it cook evenly without drying out.
- Bake and Uncover
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35 minutes covered. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the top turns golden.
- Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set. Slice into squares and serve warm. It pairs well with a side salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
Enjoy the result: a homey, savory feast that wins over even picky eaters.
Expert Tips to Make It Perfect
- Season in Layers: Sprinkle a light pinch of salt and pepper on the hash browns and chicken before adding the egg mixture. This ensures every bite of your chicken casserole with hash browns bursts with flavor.
- Grate Fresh Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents. Grating your own yields a smoother melt and creamier texture.
- Experiment with Herbs: A pinch of dried thyme or a sprinkle of chopped chives can subtly elevate your chicken hash brown casserole. It adds brightness without overwhelming the traditional taste.
- Adjust Consistency: If your hash browns release too much moisture, stir in an extra spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This keeps your hashbrown casserole with chicken delightfully moist and cohesive.
Power Up: The Perfect Post-Workout Meal
After a tough workout, I’m always on the lookout for something satisfying, protein-packed, and easy to make, because let’s be honest, who wants to cook a complicated meal when they’re already exhausted? That’s where this chicken hash brown casserole comes in!
Packed with high-protein chicken and eggs, this dish helps refuel tired muscles while keeping you full and energized. One serving delivers about 26g of protein, making it a well-balanced post-workout meal, no need for boring protein shakes when you can enjoy something this delicious! Plus, it’s easy to meal-prep, so I always have a hearty, muscle-repairing meal ready to go after a gym session.
If you’re looking for another rich and comforting dish but want to keep things low-carb, you’ll love my Quick & Indulgent Keto Tuna Casserole. It’s just as creamy and cheesy, but completely keto-friendly!
How to Store chicken and hash brown casserole
- Refrigerate: Cool the casserole completely, then cover tightly or place in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For extended storage, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers or wrap individual squares. It can remain frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This cozy favorite is more than just another chicken casserole with hash browns; it’s a feel-good recipe that warms both heart and home. From its creamy base to its savory layers, every forkful invites you back for seconds. Give this beloved dish a whirl in your own kitchen, and see how quickly it disappears from the dinner table. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or veggies, and don’t forget to share your own chicken hash brown casserole adventures with family and friends.
Need a quick, no-bake option for busy days? My Turkey Pinwheels are the perfect grab-and-go snack, light, flavorful, and effortless to make!
PrintThe Best Chicken and Hash Brown Casserole
This chicken hash brown casserole combines tender chicken, shredded hash browns, eggs, and sour cream, all smothered in melty cheese. The result is a creamy, golden bake that works for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner. It’s quick to assemble, highly adaptable with various add-ins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups Shredded cheese
- 20 oz Frozen shredded hash browns
- 1 cup Sour cream
- 6 Eggs
- 2 cups Cooked diced chicken
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Grease: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Whisk Eggs and Sour Cream: In a large bowl, whisk together 6 Eggs, 1 cup Sour cream, ½ teaspoon Salt, and ½ teaspoon Pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs until smooth.
- Layer Main Ingredients: Place 20 oz Frozen shredded hash browns in the dish. Top with 2 cups Cooked diced chicken and 1¼ cups of the shredded cheese.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Gently pour the whisked egg mixture over the hash browns, chicken, and cheese layers.
- Sprinkle Remaining Cheese: Top with the remaining ¾ cup of cheese. Cover the dish with foil.
- Bake: Bake covered for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
- Hash Brown Tip: Thaw or partially thaw frozen hash browns first for more even cooking.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to toss in spinach, diced peppers, or onions to boost flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Cool the casserole completely, then cover tightly or place in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 20g
Common Questions About Chicken and Hash Brown Casserole
Absolutely. Assemble your hashbrown casserole with chicken up to the point of baking, then cover tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes and bake as directed.
Cheddar is a classic choice for a chicken casserole with hash browns, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyère also taste fantastic.
Thawing helps the casserole with hash browns and chicken cook more evenly. If they’re fully frozen, you may need to add extra baking time.
Pat your shredded potatoes dry and use cooked chicken with minimal juices. Ensuring no excess moisture keeps your hashbrown casserole with chicken from becoming watery.
Yes, but keep in mind a larger pan often leads to a thinner layer of ingredients. Adjust the baking time as necessary so your chicken hash brown casserole doesn’t overcook on top.
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