Loaded Chicken and Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chunks of chicken, creamy hash browns, melted cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any time you crave a hearty meal. This dish is easy to prepare, and the flavors come together beautifully in every bite.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast (cubed)
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or melted butter.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Add the cubed cooked chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture, and stir until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the casserole to help create a golden crust.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the cooked, crumbled bacon over the top to ensure it stays crispy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: You can use leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even cooked turkey if you have it on hand.
- Hash Browns: Make sure the hash browns are thawed before mixing, as frozen hash browns can add excess moisture, making the casserole watery.
- Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend, such as mozzarella, Colby jack, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
Variations
Spicy Loaded Casserole
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Vegetable-Loaded Casserole
- Add 1 cup of chopped bell peppers or broccoli florets to the mixture for extra veggies and color.
Ranch Chicken Casserole
- Add 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix to the mixture for a tangy, herby flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, you can peel and grate fresh potatoes if you prefer. Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the mixture.
Loaded Chicken and Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its creamy texture, melty cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s a dish that’s hard to resist. Customize it with your favorite flavors and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious comfort of this cheesy casserole!