Jalapeño Popper Chicken Hash Brown Casserole
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Hash Brown Casserole is a creamy, spicy, and comforting one-dish meal combining tender chicken, crispy hash browns, melted cheddar cheese, and the perfect kick of jalapeños. Ideal for busy weeknights or brunch gatherings, this versatile casserole offers customizable spice levels and easy meal prep with its satisfying blend of textures and flavors.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Potatoes & Protein
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed and well-drained
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
Cheeses & Dairy
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2–3 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeded for less heat if desired)
- 3 green onions, chopped
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Extra cheddar cheese or crushed tortilla chips/breadcrumbs for topping before baking
- Prepare the Ingredients: Thaw and drain the frozen hash browns thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Shred or dice the cooked chicken breast, finely chop the jalapeños (remove seeds if you prefer mild heat), and chop the green onions. This preparation ensures even mixing and cooking.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy with seasonings evenly incorporated.
- Combine All Components: Add the prepared hash browns, cooked chicken, chopped jalapeños, and green onions to the creamy mixture. Gently fold all ingredients together until the potatoes are well coated but not mashed, preserving an ideal casserole texture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a casserole dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. For an extra golden and crunchy topping, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese or crushed tortilla chips/breadcrumbs over the surface.
- Bake and Enjoy: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set for easier slicing.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing and a creamier texture.
- Drain thawed hash browns very well to prevent a watery casserole.
- Remove seeds from jalapeños to reduce heat if desired.
- Cover with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking to prevent drying out, then uncover to brown the top.
- Allow casserole to rest after baking so slices hold together better.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Jalapeño popper, chicken casserole, hash brown casserole, spicy chicken recipe, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, brunch recipe, gluten free casserole