Baked Chicken Salad Supreme
A creamy baked chicken salad with crunchy potato chips, pecans, and a tangy mayonnaise-based sauce, perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly toss the cooked, cut-up chicken, thinly-sliced celery, and chopped pecans together.
- Puree a sauce of the mayonnaise, chopped onion, lemon juice, and grated cheese in a blender.
- Toss the chicken mixture with the sauce until well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with 2 cups of crushed potato chips.
- Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 15 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer. Adding diced apples or grapes can introduce a delightful sweetness to balance the savory flavors. Ensure your chicken is cooked and cooled before mixing to prevent wilting the salad. This dish can also be made ahead and baked just before serving, making it a great option for gatherings or potlucks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Baked Chicken Salad Supreme hot from the oven for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa. This dish is also excellent for potluck gatherings, offering a crowd-pleasing flavor that complements other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. If you want to maintain the crunchiness of the potato chips, consider adding fresh chips just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken Salad Supreme contains roughly 1566 calories, with 24g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 139g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just ensure to remove the skin and bones before chopping it into pieces. The seasoning from the rotisserie chicken will enhance the overall taste of your Baked Chicken Salad Supreme.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and sauce a day in advance. Just combine them and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. You can top with potato chips right before baking to keep them crispy. This makes it a great option for meal prep or family gatherings.
What kind of cheese works best in this salad?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for this recipe, as it adds a nice sharpness. However, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or even a blend of cheeses for added complexity. Just make sure it’s grated for easy mixing and melting.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).