Name: Loaded Chicken Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed; 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed; 1 cup sour cream; 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter

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If you’re on the hunt for a family dinner that brings smiles to the table, look no further than this Loaded Chicken Casserole! Creamy, cheesy layers of shredded chicken, hash browns, crispy bacon, and a simple cracker topping all baked to golden perfection—this dish is the definition of comfort food. It’s hearty enough to please even the hungriest eaters and comes together quickly, making it the ultimate weeknight hero or potluck favorite. Trust me, once you try this casserole, you’ll crave it again and again!

Loaded Chicken Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Loaded Chicken Casserole is its use of common, straightforward ingredients that pack in serious flavor and satisfying texture. Each item on the list plays a crucial role, whether it’s for creamy richness, sharpness, crunch, or a burst of color.

Cooked chicken breast (3 cups, shredded or cubed): A great way to use up leftovers or grab a rotisserie chicken for even more convenience.
Frozen hash brown potatoes (4 cups, thawed): These form the hearty base, soaking up flavors and keeping things wonderfully fluffy.
Sour cream (1 cup): Adds that irresistible creamy tang to every bite.
Condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): The classic secret to easy, luscious casseroles.
Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided): Rich, melty cheese gives the dish its signature gooeyness and depth.
Cooked bacon (6 slices, chopped): For savory crunch and that smoky, irresistible aroma.
Green onions (1/2 cup, chopped): Freshness and subtle bite to balance the richness.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A simple boost of savory flavor, no chopping required.
Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances depth and umami with no tears involved!
Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
Crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, optional topping): For that delightful golden crunch on top.
Melted butter (2 tablespoons, if using cracker topping): Helps achieve an irresistible, buttery topping.

How to Make Loaded Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Mix Up the Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get things ready for baking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or cubed chicken, thawed hash browns, sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined—don’t be afraid to get in there and make sure every bite is loaded with flavor.

Step 2: Transfer and Top

Spoon the fully mixed filling into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Gently spread it out so the mixture is even and reaches the corners. If you’re going for that classic casserole crunch, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs with the melted butter, then sprinkle this topper over your casserole. Finish by scattering the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese for an irresistible golden layer.

Step 3: Bake Until Bubbling

Slide your baking dish into the oven and let the Loaded Chicken Casserole bake for about 30–35 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling center with a top that turns beautifully golden and crisp. When it’s done, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes outside the oven. This makes it easier to slice and lets all the flavors meld a bit more.

How to Serve Loaded Chicken Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions right before serving adds a welcome pop of color and a bit of zing. If you’re feeling extra decadent, a dusting of fresh parsley or even a dollop of sour cream will make each portion look and taste like a special treat.

Side Dishes

Loaded Chicken Casserole is definitely filling, but it pairs so well with simple sides. Try serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, some roasted broccoli, or sautéed green beans. The freshness balances the richness and keeps your meal feeling complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with how you serve this dish! Spoon the casserole into individual ramekins for an elevated dinner party feel, or offer a toppings bar with sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or extra bacon. It’s also fantastic as a hearty brunch option—just add a poached egg on top!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any remaining Loaded Chicken Casserole cool to room temperature before covering and storing in the fridge. It will keep well in an airtight container for up to 4 days, making reheated lunches an absolute breeze and every bit as tasty as the first serving.

Freezing

For longer storage or easy future dinners, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Wrap the cooled dish tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. If you’re planning ahead, you could even assemble the whole casserole (minus the topping) and freeze before baking—simply add the cracker topping right before baking from frozen.

Reheating

To reheat, let leftovers thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbling—usually 25–30 minutes, covered loosely with foil. For single servings, a minute or two in the microwave does the trick, just be sure to heat until everything is piping hot and the cheese melts anew.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Loaded Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and gives the casserole an extra boost of savory flavor. Just shred the meat and you’re ready to go—so easy for busy nights.

Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?

Definitely. Simply use a gluten-free brand of cream of chicken soup and choose gluten-free crackers or skip the optional topping. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you won’t miss a thing.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a fantastic swap for sour cream if you want a lighter version of Loaded Chicken Casserole or just prefer its tangy kick. It keeps the texture creamy and works beautifully in this recipe.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

You can easily sneak in more veggies! Steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or even diced bell peppers can be mixed right in with the other filling ingredients. It’s a great way to make your casserole extra colorful and nutritious.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when it’s hot and bubbling throughout and the top is deliciously golden brown. Letting it rest for a few minutes before serving makes it easier to slice and ensures all that gooey cheese stays put.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about pulling a bubbling pan of Loaded Chicken Casserole from the oven and knowing a comforting, delicious meal is seconds away. I hope you adore this recipe as much as my family does—give it a try and get ready for empty plates and lots of happy chatter at your table!

Loaded Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Loaded Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. Packed with chicken, hash browns, bacon, and green onions, it’s a satisfying and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the casserole:

3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the topping (optional):

1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix the casserole: In a large bowl, combine chicken, hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Prepare for baking: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread evenly. Add the cracker topping if desired by mixing the crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkling over the top. Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Serve: Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.