Creamy Chicken and Hash Brown Casserole

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Creamy Chicken and Hash Brown Casserole

A cozy, family-friendly casserole that’s hearty, creamy, and incredibly easy to throw together—perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

This chicken and hash brown casserole combines tender shredded chicken, crispy golden hash browns, colorful vegetables, and rich cheddar cheese in a creamy ranch-flavored sauce. Topped with buttery crushed crackers, every bite is warm, crunchy, and comforting. If you’re looking for a no-fuss dinner with major flavor and minimal prep, this one’s for you.

 Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup (or use cream of celery or mushroom)
  • 2 cups sour cream
  • ¾ cup whole milk
  • 3 tablespoons ranch seasoning (or 1 packet)
  • 30 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp, your choice)
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
  • 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn)

For the Topping:

  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (or substitute with Corn Flakes or potato chips)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

 Instructions

  1. Prep the Oven and Dish
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
  2. Mix the Sauce
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and ranch seasoning. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the Main Ingredients
    Stir in the thawed hash browns, diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked chicken, and frozen mixed vegetables. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Assemble the Casserole
    Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
  5. Add the Crunchy Topping
    In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  6. Bake to Perfection
    Bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.

 Tips & Variations

  • Make it extra creamy: Add 4 oz of softened cream cheese to the sauce mixture for extra richness.
  • Vegetable swaps: Feel free to substitute or add other diced vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli florets, or spinach.
  • Add a kick: Mix in a pinch of paprika or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven covered with foil to keep the topping crisp.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No chopping or cooking chicken required if using rotisserie
  • Just 10 minutes of prep time
  • Crowd-pleasing and kid-approved
  • Easily customizable with ingredients you already have
  • Freezer-friendly – assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli for a balanced and satisfying meal. It also works well as a potluck dish or cozy weekend dinner.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 367
  • Protein: 26g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 29g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 333mg
  • Calcium: 358mg
  • Iron: 2mg
  • Vitamin C: 11mg

 

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