Creamy, cheesy, and downright comforting, this Hash Brown Chicken Casserole is the kind of dish that feels like a warm kitchen hug. With tender shredded chicken, a velvety sour cream and cream-of-chicken base, and a golden, crispy hash brown crust, it’s an easy weeknight winner that pleases kids and adults alike. Fun fact: casseroles like this became wildly popular in mid-20th-century America because they were simple, economical, and perfect for feeding a crowd — the ultimate one-dish wonder.

This recipe shines because it’s simple to assemble, requires minimal chopping, and cooks in one pan for easy cleanup. If you’ve enjoyed other family favorites on this blog, you’ll see how this casserole stands up to classics — and if you want a closely related comfort breakfast twist, check out this take on this classic hash brown chicken casserole for inspiration. Ready to make something creamy, crispy, and totally satisfying? Let’s get cooking.

What is Hash Brown Chicken Casserole?

What exactly is a hash brown chicken casserole — and who decided the best things to put together were frozen potatoes and shredded chicken? The name is literal and lovable: hash browns on the bottom (or mixed in), creamy chicken filling in the middle, and a crunchy topping on top. Why is it called that? Maybe someone looked at a pile of hash browns and thought, “this would taste great with chicken and a blanket of cheese.” After all, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Who can argue with that logic when the result is this comforting? Give it a try and see if it becomes your new go-to family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This:

• Creamy, comforting main highlight: A rich sour cream and cream-of-chicken sauce keeps shredded chicken juicy while the melted cheddar adds that irresistible savory note. The mix of creamy center and crispy top is pure comfort-food perfection.
• Cost-saving and practical: This casserole stretches cooked chicken into multiple servings, uses pantry staples and frozen vegetables, and makes great leftovers — a budget-friendly winner for busy families.
• Flavorful toppings and texture: The crunchy breadcrumbs or crushed Corn Flakes on top provide a satisfying contrast to the soft interior, and the peas, carrots, and corn add color and mild sweetness.

If you love layered, cheesy dishes, this one hits the same cozy notes as our breakfast-style casseroles, and you might also enjoy exploring a savory brunch cousin like the hashbrown breakfast casserole. Go ahead — make this tonight and watch it disappear.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This casserole is easy because most ingredients are ready-to-use: frozen hash browns, canned soup, and pre-cooked chicken. It mixes together in one bowl, spreads into a 9×13 baking dish, and bakes to bubbly, golden perfection. Expect around 15–20 minutes hands-on prep and 60 minutes baking time for about 1 hour 20 minutes total. The standout elements are the creamy sauce that keeps the chicken juicy and the crispy topping that finishes it off.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds frozen hash brown potatoes, Southern Style, spread evenly (no thawing required)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided if desired (room temperature or freshly shredded)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (no need to thaw)
• 1/2 cup canned summer sweet corn, drained
• 2 cups sour cream or plain yogurt (use full-fat for best creaminess)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz), well-stirred
• 1/3 cup milk (adjust slightly for thinner or thicker sauce)
• 3 cups cooked, shredded roasted chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• Bread crumbs or Corn Flake crumbs (for topping), about 3/4 to 1 cup, lightly buttered if desired

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray with nonstick spray so the casserole releases easily.
2. Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Press gently so they form a uniform layer.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, 1/2 cup drained canned corn, 2 cups sour cream (or yogurt), 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1/3 cup milk, and 3 cups shredded cooked chicken. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-distributed.
4. Pour the chicken and sauce mixture over the layer of hash browns and spread it evenly with a spatula so the full dish is covered.
5. Sprinkle 3/4 to 1 cup bread crumbs or crushed Corn Flake crumbs evenly over the top. For extra crispness, dot the crumbs with a tablespoon or two of melted butter or spray lightly with cooking spray.
6. Bake uncovered at 400°F (200°C) for about 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the remainder of the bake time.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it set and make serving cleaner.

What to Serve With:

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut the richness
• Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for extra veggies and texture
• A simple tomato and cucumber salad for brightness
• Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread for soaking up the creamy sauce
• Light beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine for adults

Top Tips for Perfecting:

• Ingredient swaps: Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier option and added protein. If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, blend a cup of chicken stock with a tablespoon of butter and 1–2 teaspoons of flour and whisk until thickened.
• Chicken ideas: Rotisserie chicken saves time; leftover roasted or poached chicken shredded finely works best for even distribution.
• Texture control: For a crispier top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking while watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
• Avoid sogginess: Do not thaw the hash browns before baking — keeping them frozen reduces excess moisture and gives a firmer crust.
• Flavor bumps: Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for deeper flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

• Refrigeration: Cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: Assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 75–90 minutes, covered for the first 45 minutes, then uncover to brown the top.
• Reheating best method: For the best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 20–30 minutes (covered until heated through, then uncover to crisp the topping). Microwaving is quicker but may soften the topping.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can, but you’ll need to shred and par-cook them (squeeze out excess moisture and lightly sauté or roast until just tender) so the casserole isn’t watery.

Is it okay to use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely — leftover turkey makes a delicious substitution and is a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make a simple gluten-free roux, and choose gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal for the topping.

How can I make this lighter or lower in calories?
Use plain nonfat Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and low-sodium soup to lower calories and fat. Reduce the topping or use panko lightly sprayed with olive oil.

What if my casserole is too watery after baking?
Let it rest for 10–15 minutes to allow it to set; excess moisture usually absorbs. Next time, reduce the milk slightly or ensure the hash browns stay frozen until assembly.

Conclusion

This Hash Brown Chicken Casserole is a hassle-free, crowd-pleasing meal that combines creamy, savory flavors with a satisfyingly crispy top. It’s easy enough for weeknights, cozy enough for lazy weekends, and versatile enough to use leftovers or pantry staples. Give it a try, share it with family, and enjoy the compliments — casseroles like this are proof that simple food can be extraordinary. For an additional classic take on this dish, see Easy Hash Brown Chicken Casserole – Home & Plate.