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Here’s a detailed, step-by-step article for making Chicken Hashbrown Casserole:

Chicken Hashbrown Casserole: A Comforting, Cheesy Classic

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Chicken Hashbrown Casserole is the answer. With its crispy golden hashbrowns, tender chicken, and creamy cheesy sauce, this casserole brings warmth and flavor to any table. The best part? It’s easy to make and customizable for your family’s tastes. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing it from scratch.

Ingredients

For a standard 9×13-inch casserole, you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns, shredded (thawed slightly)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
½ cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (optional for a subtle smoky flavor)
2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)
1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your casserole dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray ensures the casserole won’t stick.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Cream of chicken soup
Sour cream
Milk
Garlic (if using)
Salt, pepper, and paprika

Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will form the flavorful base of your casserole.

Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients

Add the following to the bowl with the sauce:

Shredded chicken
Thawed hashbrowns
1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (reserve the rest for topping)
Chopped onion

Gently fold everything together until the hashbrowns are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Be careful not to mash the hashbrowns—keeping them slightly chunky gives a better texture.