This Potato Chip Chicken Casserole is a fun and crunchy dish! It features tender chicken, creamy soup, and crispy hash browns, all topped with a layer of salty potato chips.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a cozy meal. I always make extra so I can have leftovers for lunch. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Diced cooked chicken is central to this dish. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or even turkey as a great alternative.
Frozen Hash Browns: These are the base of the casserole. If you prefer fresh potatoes, you can grate them yourself, just remember to soak them in cold water and drain before using to reduce starch.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try using a homemade white sauce or even a cream of mushroom soup for a twist.
Sour Cream: It brings moisture and tanginess. Greek yogurt is a great substitution if you want a lighter option. It works just as well!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For the best melt, use sharp cheddar. If you want to switch it up, Monterey Jack or Colby Jack also adds a nice flavor.
Potato Chips: They give a delightful crunch. Feel free to use any type of chips you prefer, like BBQ or sour cream and onion for different flavor notes.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Creamy and Not Dry?
To keep your casserole creamy, focus on mixing your base ingredients thoroughly. Here’s how:
- Ensure your hash browns and protein are well coated with the cream soup and sour cream mixture.
- Don’t skip the butter on the dish—it helps prevent sticking and adds moisture during baking.
- Cover the casserole with foil for the first half of the baking time to trap steam, then remove it to allow the top to crisp up.
How to Make Potato Chip Chicken Casserole With Hash Browns
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup potato chips, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional for greasing the dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. So, set aside about 1 hour and 10 minutes to have this comforting dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take your butter (if you’re using it) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. This will make it easier to serve later!
2. Combining The Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, diced cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well until it’s nicely blended. This is the base of your casserole, so make sure it’s well combined!
3. Assembling the Casserole:
Now, pour the hash brown mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it evenly across the bottom. Make sure it’s nice and even so that every bite is just as delicious.
4. Topping Off the Dish:
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will melt and create a cheesy layer that everyone will love! Then, take your potato chips, crush them up a bit, and sprinkle those on top of the cheese for that perfect crunchy layer.
5. Baking Away:
Put the casserole in your preheated oven and bake it for about 45-55 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and the top to be a lovely golden brown. The smell will start to fill your kitchen, and you’ll know it’s almost ready!
6. Final Touch:
Once baked, carefully take your casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit, making it easier to serve. Then, dig in and enjoy your delicious Potato Chip Chicken Casserole with Hash Browns!
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken, but you’ll need to cook it first! Boil or bake the chicken until it’s fully cooked, then dice it before adding it to your casserole. This way, your casserole will have plenty of flavor from freshly cooked chicken.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with a made-from-scratch version using 1 cup of chicken broth mixed with 2 tablespoons of flour and a bit of butter. Stir until thickened, and season to taste. Alternatively, you can use any cream soup, like cream of mushroom or celery, for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some frozen peas, corn, or even chopped broccoli to add more nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to thaw any frozen vegetables before mixing them into the casserole to ensure even baking!
