Name: Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed); 2-3 cups cooked chicken (diced); 1/4 cup bacon bits; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup milk; 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (thawed); 12-14 crushed Ritz crackers; Additional shredded cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving the ultimate in cozy comfort food, look no further than this Chicken Hashbrown Casserole. With tender chunks of chicken, golden hash browns, melty cheddar cheese, and pops of colorful veggies, all crowned with a buttery cracker topping, this dish brings together everything I adore about classic casseroles — rich flavors, a variety of textures, and that magical homey aroma that invites everyone to the table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, dropping off a meal for a friend, or simply treating yourself to a night of easy, foolproof deliciousness, Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is the cheesy, craveable answer you’ll return to again and again.

Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is how basic but essential the ingredients are, and how each one plays a starring role. Every component works together for maximum comfort and flavor, from crisp hash browns to creamy soup and cheesy goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Hash Browns (3 cups, thawed): These create that signature hearty texture and soak up all the savory flavors.
Cooked Chicken (2–3 cups, diced): Use freshly cooked chicken or rotisserie for convenience; it gives the casserole satisfying protein and bite.
Bacon Bits (1/4 cup): Adds a smoky, salty pop that turns up the flavor in every bite.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup shredded, plus extra for topping): Melty cheddar weaves everything together and delivers that irresistible cheesy pull.
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can): The secret to a creamy, cohesive base that’s loaded with comforting flavor.
Milk (1/2 cup): Loosens the mixture just the right amount and ensures a creamy, saucy interior.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables (12 oz, thawed): For vibrant color, extra nutrition, and a gentle sweetness in every forkful.
Ritz Crackers (12–14, crushed): Crushed on top for that addictively crisp, buttery finish everyone fights over.

How to Make Chicken Hashbrown Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Giving your oven ample time to preheat makes sure the casserole bakes evenly and develops that gorgeous golden topping. This is the moment to imagine the aroma that’s about to fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a big mixing bowl, combine your thawed hash browns, diced cooked chicken, bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, thawed mixed vegetables, condensed cream of chicken soup, and milk. If you love a little extra herby aroma, sprinkle in a pinch of dried thyme. Mix until everything is thoroughly coated and evenly distributed—that way every bite is packed with flavor and texture.

Step 3: Layer It All Up

Lightly grease a 7×11-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the chicken hash brown mixture into the dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula. This helps the casserole cook consistently and gives you that signature even, hearty slice.

Step 4: Add That Crunchy Topping

Grab a small bowl and stir together your crushed Ritz crackers and a handful of extra shredded cheddar. Sprinkle this combination generously over the top of your casserole—it will bake into a bubbly, golden brown crust that nobody can resist picking at.

Step 5: Bake Covered Then Uncovered

Cover your casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This lets everything inside get steamy and meld together. Remove the foil and keep baking for another 15 minutes until the top is gloriously crisp and golden. Your kitchen will smell incredible right about now!

Step 6: Let It Rest

Patience, my friend! Pull the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This lets the creamy center set up, making slicing and serving a breeze. Plus, it means you get perfect, satisfying squares that hold together on your plate.

How to Serve Chicken Hashbrown Casserole

Garnishes

As soon as your Chicken Hashbrown Casserole comes out of the oven, give it a shower of freshly snipped chives or parsley. Not only do these herbs add a burst of color, but their fresh, peppery flavor makes every bite brighter. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, scatter more crispy bacon bits or an extra sprinkle of cheese on top while it’s still warm.

Side Dishes

This casserole is seriously filling, but it absolutely loves to share the plate. Pair your Chicken Hashbrown Casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette, roasted broccoli, or even a platter of fresh fruit for a light, refreshing contrast. Looking to go full comfort mode? A warm biscuit or slice of country bread is wonderful to soak up those creamy edges.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to serve Chicken Hashbrown Casserole just the way your family likes! You can scoop it into individual ramekins for easy grab-and-go portions at a brunch buffet, turn leftovers into sandwich melts, or even cut cold casserole into squares and pan-fry for brunchy hashbrown cakes. The possibilities are almost endless when you start with such a crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Chicken Hashbrown Casserole to room temperature, then store slices in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to three days and is still dreamy when reheated.

Freezing

Want to prep ahead? Let your baked casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and slip into a freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months. For single servings, cut into slices before freezing for ultimate convenience.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Chicken Hashbrown Casserole in a 350°F oven (covered with foil) until hot throughout, about 20–30 minutes. Individual slices can be microwaved (uncovered) in 1-minute bursts until heated through and cheesy again.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes Chicken Hashbrown Casserole even quicker to throw together and adds delicious, savory flavor from its spices.

Can I make Chicken Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole fully, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when you’re ready, adding a few minutes to the cook time if you start from cold.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Swap in gluten-free cream of chicken soup and use gluten-free crackers for the topping. Double-check all packaged ingredients, and you’re good to go!

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to use whatever frozen or fresh veggies you have—think bell peppers, broccoli florets, or even spinach for more nutrition and color in your Chicken Hashbrown Casserole.

Can I make this casserole spicy?

If you like a little heat, stir in a pinch of cayenne, top with sliced jalapeños, or add a spoonful of diced green chiles before baking. It’s delicious!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to sink your fork into a piping hot slice of Chicken Hashbrown Casserole—this is comfort food at its finest, guaranteed to warm hearts and fill bellies. Give it a try soon, and don’t be surprised if it instantly becomes your go-to family favorite!

Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 27 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, crispy hash browns, savory bacon, and creamy cheese, all baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
2–3 cups cooked chicken (diced)
1/4 cup bacon bits
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup milk
12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (thawed)

For the Topping:

12–14 crushed Ritz crackers
Additional shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hash browns, diced chicken, bacon bits, cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, and thyme. Mix well.
Spread Mixture: Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 7×11-inch baking dish.
Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with additional shredded cheddar cheese; sprinkle over the casserole.
Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
Rest and Serve: Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Feel free to customize the vegetables and add your favorite seasonings for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American