Description
This hearty Chicken Hashbrown Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, crispy hashbrowns, mixed vegetables, and creamy cheddar cheese in a comforting bake topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for an easy family dinner or potluck dish with a crispy golden top and rich, creamy filling.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen hash browns, thawed slightly (about 8 ounces)
- 2–3 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables, thawed slightly
- ⅛ teaspoon dried thyme
Topping
- 12–14 Ritz crackers (about half a sleeve), crushed
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, diced cooked chicken, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, thawed mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, and dried thyme. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 7×11-inch or similar sized baking dish. Spread the prepared hash brown mixture evenly into the dish, smoothing it out for an even bake.
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese. Evenly sprinkle this cracker-cheese topping mixture over the surface of the casserole.
- Bake (Covered): Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the topping from burning. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to cook through and melt the cheeses.
- Bake (Uncovered): Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling hot.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 to 15 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps it set for easier serving. Enjoy your delicious chicken hashbrown casserole!
Notes
- Ensure the hash browns and mixed vegetables are thawed slightly so they incorporate easily but are not soggy.
- You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- For a lower fat version, substitute reduced-fat cheddar cheese and low-fat milk.
- The resting time is important to help the casserole set and enhance the flavors.
- Feel free to add herbs like parsley or paprika for extra flavor.
