Do you remember those cold evenings when you wanted a warm meal but didn’t feel like cooking? I’ve been there too. That’s why I’m excited to share this easy crockpot chicken and hashbrown casserole recipe with you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and lazy weekends. This slow cooker potato casserole combines tender chicken, crispy hashbrowns, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal.
Imagine coming home to the smell of a delicious chicken hashbrown casserole, ready to eat from your crockpot. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare and cooks for 5-6 hours. You’ll have a tasty dinner for 8, great for family meals or meal prep. This recipe is not just easy; it brings comfort and joy to your table without effort.
This hashbrown casserole crockpot recipe is simple and flexible. You can adjust it to your liking or dietary needs. Whether you need a hit for a potluck or a reliable dinner, this casserole is your answer. Let’s explore why this dish is set to become your new favorite.
Table of Contents
Why This Chicken and Hashbrown Casserole Crockpot Will Become Your Family Favorite
This cheesy hashbrown bake is set to become your go-to meal for any occasion. It combines flavors and textures in a way that pleases everyone. It’s a hit with both kids and adults.
Perfect Comfort Food for Any Occasion
Looking for a hearty brunch or a cozy dinner? This casserole is perfect. Its creamy texture and savory flavors win over everyone.
Time-Saving Crockpot Convenience
Prep time is just 5 minutes, and cooking takes 35 minutes. This casserole is ready in 40 minutes. It’s great for busy families who want a quick, tasty meal.
Budget-Friendly Meal Solution
This casserole is not only tasty but also budget-friendly. It uses simple ingredients like frozen hashbrowns and seasonings. You can feed 12 people without spending a lot.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Frozen Shredded Hashbrowns | 32 ounces (8 cups) |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 10 ¾ ounce can |
| Sour Cream | 1 ½ cups |
| Unsalted Butter | ½ cup |
This cheesy hashbrown bake is versatile, convenient, and affordable. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Try it and see how quickly it becomes a hit!
Essential Ingredients for Your Crockpot Casserole
Making a tasty hashbrown casserole with chicken in your crockpot is simple. Let’s explore the key ingredients that make it a hit with families.
Main Components: Chicken and Hashbrowns
The core of this dish is its main ingredients. You’ll need 1 pound of diced chicken breasts and a 30 oz. package of frozen shredded hash browns. These ingredients provide protein and a satisfying starch base.
Dairy and Seasonings
For a creamy texture, add a 24 oz. container of sour cream and 4 cups of shredded sharp cheese. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for a flavorful kick.
Topping Options
Make your hashbrown casserole with chicken even better by adding tasty toppings. Try crispy bacon bits, sliced green onions, or crushed Ritz crackers for extra crunch. For a unique twist, experiment with corn chips, corn flakes, or even Cheez-Its.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Frozen Hash Browns | 30 oz. package |
| Diced Chicken Breasts | 1 pound |
| Sour Cream | 24 oz. container |
| Shredded Sharp Cheese | 4 cups (two 8-oz. bags) |
With these ingredients, you’re all set to make a delicious hashbrown potato casserole that everyone will love.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Making a tasty crockpot hashbrown egg bake or hashbrown breakfast casserole is simple. With the right tools, you’ll quickly have a delicious meal ready. Let’s look at the essential kitchen equipment needed for this recipe.
First, you’ll need a good crockpot or slow cooker. This is the key to a perfect casserole with little effort. Make sure it’s big enough for all your ingredients.
For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, use non-stick cooking spray. You’ll also need a large mixing bowl and measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements.
If you want to bake your casserole in the oven, a 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect. Don’t forget a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula for stirring and serving.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Crockpot/Slow Cooker | Main cooking vessel |
| Non-stick Cooking Spray | Prevents sticking |
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combining ingredients |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate measurements |
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | Oven baking option |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stirring and serving |
With these tools, you’re ready to make a wonderful crockpot hashbrown egg bake. It serves 6 and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Enjoy your cooking!
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making a tasty chicken hashbrown casserole in a crockpot is simple. This guide will help you make a big dish that feeds 8 people. Each serving has about 346 calories.
Layering the Ingredients
Begin by putting half of the 26-oz frozen shredded hashbrowns in your crockpot. Then, add 2 cups of diced or shredded cooked chicken on top. You can use a rotisserie chicken for easy prep.
Adding Seasonings and Cream
In a bowl, mix 2 cups of sour cream, 2 cans of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this mix over the layers in the crockpot. Add the rest of the hashbrowns and top with more cheese.
Setting Cooking Time and Temperature
Cook your casserole on low for 5-6 hours in the crockpot. If you prefer baking, do it at 350°F for about 1 hour. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Frozen hashbrowns | 26 oz package |
| Cooked chicken | 2 cups |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Sour cream | 2 cups |
| Cream of chicken soup | 2 cans (10.5 oz each) |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
Making a delicious slow cooker potato casserole is easy. Follow these simple tips to create a cheesy hashbrown bake your family will adore.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Use thawed hashbrowns for a better texture. This helps avoid too much moisture and keeps the top crispy. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Check it at the 3-hour mark if cooking on high, as slow cookers can vary.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Keep leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. You can microwave or oven heat it.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. But, the texture might change a bit when thawed.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Use airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe container |
Your slow cooker potato casserole feeds 8-12 people, great for family gatherings or meal prep. With these tips, you’ll become a pro at making this cheesy hashbrown bake in no time!
Customization Options and Variations
You can make your crockpot hashbrown breakfast your own. This easy recipe lets you try new ingredients and flavors.
Change up the cheese for different tastes. Try cheddar and pepper jack for spice, or mozzarella and parmesan for Italy. Adding cream cheese makes it richer.
Make your casserole healthier with veggies. Onions, bell peppers, or frozen veggies are good choices. They bring color, texture, and vitamins.
- Swap chicken for cooked bacon or ham
- Add diced tomatoes for a fresh taste
- Include sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor
- Sprinkle in some chopped spinach for added nutrients
For a crunchy top, try different toppings. Crushed potato chips, corn flakes, or French fried onions are great. They add a fun texture.
This recipe makes 10 servings and takes 3 hours and 10 minutes to cook. With 338 calories per serving, it’s perfect for any meal.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
Knowing the nutritional value of your hashbrown casserole with chicken is key. It’s a dish that’s both tasty and nutritious.
Caloric Content
A single serving has about 236 calories. It’s a filling meal that won’t weigh you down.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Dietary Considerations
This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals. Each serving has 366IU of Vitamin A, 12mg of Vitamin C, and 215mg of Calcium. It also has 288mg of sodium, so keep an eye on that if you’re watching your salt intake.
Portion Recommendations
The recipe makes 8 servings, great for family dinners or meal prep. Each portion is both filling and nutritious. If you’re watching your calories, try a smaller serving with a side salad.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Your Easy Crockpot Chicken & Hashbrown Casserole is great as a main dish or a side. It serves 8, perfect for family meals or parties. Try it with a green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Turn it into a breakfast dish by adding fresh fruit or yogurt. The mix of savory and sweet is amazing. Top it with green onions or extra cheese for a nice touch.
Each serving has about 1273 calories, so watch your portions. It’s high in protein (39g per serving) and has a rich, comforting taste. It’s filling and delicious.
This casserole is perfect for any meal. It’s a hit with families and works well for any event. Its tasty flavor and versatility make it a favorite.