5 ingredient chicken casserole
Make dinner easy with this 5 ingredient chicken casserole! A simple, delicious, and family-friendly recipe that's perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (or thighs) – 2 to 3 breasts, cubed or shredded. The chicken provides the protein and the base for the casserole.
Cream of Chicken Soup – 1 can (10.5 oz). This will add creaminess and flavor, helping to bind all the ingredients together into a comforting, cohesive dish.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 1 to 1.5 cups. This adds melty goodness and a rich flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and soup.
Frozen Hash Browns – 2 cups. The hash browns provide texture and a hearty base, making the casserole filling and satisfying.
Ranch Dressing Mix – 1 packet (or 2 tbsp if using homemade seasoning). This seasoning mix adds a zesty flavor that brings all the ingredients together beautifully.
Instructions
Prep the Chicken: Start by prepping your chicken. If you're using chicken breasts, cube them into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can shred rotisserie chicken for even less work! This is where the chicken’s flavor takes center stage, so be sure to season lightly with salt and pepper if you like.
Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup with the ranch dressing mix. Stir it together until smooth. This creamy mixture will serve as the base that holds everything together, giving your casserole that deliciously comforting texture.
Add the Chicken and Hash Browns: To the bowl, add your cubed chicken (or shredded chicken) and the frozen hash browns. The hash browns will add a cozy texture to the casserole, making it feel hearty and comforting. Mix it all together until the chicken and hash browns are well-coated with the creamy sauce.
Layer the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish (about 9x13 inches). Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking and a beautiful golden top. Don’t worry if it looks a little “loose” at this stage; the magic happens when it bakes.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. The cheese will melt perfectly as it bakes, creating a deliciously gooey, golden crust.
Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and the cheese has formed a lovely crust on top.
Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let your casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow it to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g