Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Loaded Chicken and Hash Brown Casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken, crispy hash browns, and a medley of cheese and vegetables, all baked to perfection. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a family favorite. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this casserole is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies!
Ingredients:
- For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups frozen hash browns (about 1 bag)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (for added flavor)
- For Topping:
- 1 cup corn flakes or crushed crackers (for a crunchy topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Additional cheese for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, frozen hash browns, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using bacon, add it to the mixture as well. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the chicken and hash brown mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed corn flakes or crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole for a crunchy topping. If desired, add a little extra cheese on top for more cheesiness.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Garnish with additional green onions if desired, and enjoy your cheesy, loaded chicken and hash brown casserole!