Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar. Stir until fully blended.
Step 3: Assemble & Add Topping
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar over the top.
In a small bowl, mix crushed cornflakes (or crackers) with melted butter and paprika. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer for a golden, crispy finish.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until bubbly and golden. For an extra-crispy topping, broil 1–2 minutes at the end—watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Pro Tips
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Use rotisserie or canned chicken for a quick, flavorful shortcut.
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Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
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Freeze the casserole unbaked in an airtight container; bake from frozen with an extra 15–20 minutes.
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Experiment with cheeses like pepper jack or Swiss for different flavors.
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Serve alongside buttery biscuits or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for balance.
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Complement with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread for indulgence.
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Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea.
Storage & Leftover Tips
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Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days, covered.
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Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispy topping; microwaving may soften it.
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Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free crushed crackers or cornflakes.
Q: Can I substitute sour cream?
A: Greek yogurt or cream cheese works well, though the texture will change slightly.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Assemble and freeze, then bake directly from frozen with a little extra cooking time.
This Hashbrown Chicken Casserole is comfort food at its finest—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with golden, crispy goodness. Perfect for families, meal prep, or any gathering where a hearty, satisfying dish is the star of the table.