Description
This Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying comfort food dish. Packed with tender chicken, crispy hash browns, and a crunchy cracker topping, it’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Casserole Base
- 3 cups frozen hash browns, thawed slightly (about 8 ounces)
- 2–3 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/4 cup bacon bits
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables, thawed slightly
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
Topping
- 12–14 Ritz crackers (about half a sleeve), crushed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2️⃣ Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the hash browns, cooked chicken, bacon bits, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, and thyme. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
3️⃣ Assemble the casserole: Lightly grease a 7×11-inch (or similarly sized) baking dish. Spread the hash brown mixture evenly into the dish, smoothing out the top.
4️⃣ Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the casserole.
5️⃣ Bake (covered): Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6️⃣ Bake (uncovered): Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
7️⃣ Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to firm up slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Customizations: Swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites, such as peas, carrots, or broccoli.
- Chicken options: Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience, but leftover turkey or shredded chicken breast can also be used.
- Ritz cracker substitution: Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can be used as a topping for a different texture.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6