When it comes to comfort food, nothing compares to the warmth and satisfaction of a casserole fresh out of the oven. This Southern Chicken and Hashbrown Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, creamy textures, and crispy hashbrowns in a single dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is a reliable crowd-pleaser.
What makes this recipe stand out is its balance of flavors and textures: the creaminess of the cheese and sour cream, the slight crunch from the hashbrowns, and the hearty flavor of chicken all come together perfectly. It’s also a flexible recipe—you can add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Southern-style hashbrowns (frozen or freshly grated)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed carrots and peas
- 2 cups sour cream
- ½ cup drained canned corn
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 3 cups pulled or shredded cooked chicken breast
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the casserole will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Hashbrowns
Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the hashbrowns evenly along the bottom. This layer will act as the base for the casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, frozen carrots and peas, sour cream, drained corn, cream of chicken soup, shredded chicken breast, and milk. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the creamy chicken mixture over the layer of hashbrowns, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together while the hashbrowns cook to a tender consistency.
Step 6: Add the Breadcrumb Topping
After 45 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for an added crunch. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the dish set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a side of steamed vegetables. For an extra Southern touch, serve it with sweet tea or lemonade.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in an additional cup of shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for extra cheesiness.
This Hearty Southern Chicken and Hashbrown Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch, it’s a dish that brings people together. Its simplicity makes it a favorite among busy cooks, while its taste ensures it will be loved by all.
The best part? This recipe is endlessly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this casserole will be a hit.
Next time you’re in the mood for something hearty, creamy, and utterly delicious, try this casserole. Your family and friends will thank you, and it just might become a staple in your recipe rotation!