When Dinner Calls for Comfort: Chicken Hash Brown Casserole to the Rescue

Some meals feel like a warm hug after a long day. This chicken hash brown casserole is exactly that—comfort in a dish that invites everyone to gather around the table and unwind. Imagine the mingling aromas of melted cheddar and tender chicken filling your kitchen, the promise of a hearty meal settling in.

One evening, after a chilly day interrupted by unexpected errands, I came home craving something both simple and satisfying. The oven was already warming up, and as I mixed the creamy, cheesy layers with shredded chicken and hash browns, the kitchen transformed. The crunch of the buttery cornflake topping was the perfect contrast to the soft, savory filling beneath. When it finally came out bubbling and golden, the first bite was pure comfort—warm, rich, and just a little crispy. It’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down, savor, and feel grateful for the little moments of home.

  • Combines tender chicken and crispy hash browns in a creamy, cheesy base.
  • A crunchy cornflake topping adds texture and irresistible flavor.
  • Easy to prep ahead, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
  • Feeds a crowd with generous servings, ideal for family dinners.
  • Comfort food that warms both the heart and the appetite.

If you’re worried about the prep, don’t be—the ingredients come together effortlessly, and the oven does most of the work. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully, so you can enjoy it again with even less fuss.

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Chicken Hash Brown Casserole

A hearty and comforting chicken hash brown casserole made with tender cooked chicken, crispy hash browns, creamy cheese sauce, and a crunchy topping. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 (30 ounces) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
1 (10.5 ounces) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (10.5 ounces) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 cups sour cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups crushed cornflakes

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
In a separate small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed cornflakes until the cornflakes are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the buttered cornflakes evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for the cornflake topping?

Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs also work well if you want to switch things up.

Is it okay to use leftover chicken?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken is perfect and makes this dish even easier to prepare.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Ready to bring this cozy casserole to your table? It’s a simple way to turn everyday ingredients into something special everyone will want seconds of.