Preheat oven to 350ºF. Lightly coat a 13x9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl combine hash browns, 1 ½ cups cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken, butter, salt, and pepper.
Spread mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup cheese.
Bake until bubbly and golden brown, about 45 minutes.
