Baked Chicken Salad(Yields 12 Servings)
A creamy baked chicken salad featuring tender chicken, crunchy croutons, and melted Cheddar cheese, perfect for gatherings and served warm or cold for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 1 stick of butter in a pan and brown 2 cups of croutons in the oven.
- Combine all ingredients except cheese and 2 cups of croutons. Pile the chicken mixture in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle with cheese and 2 cups of croutons.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in a 425°F oven.
- Cut into squares before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. If you don't have croutons, you can easily make your own by toasting cubes of bread with a bit of olive oil and seasoning. Adding diced grapes or apples can enhance the flavor and texture, giving a sweet contrast to the savory elements. This dish is perfect for potlucks, similar to Chicken Soup Supreme.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, cut into squares, as a comforting main course. It pairs beautifully with a side of mixed greens or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or a light soup, making it a great option for a family dinner or a gathering, similar to Amish Baked Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Baked Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For the best texture, you might want to avoid reheating the cheese too much, as it can become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken Salad(Yields 12 Servings) contains roughly 718 calories, with 23g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1112mg per serving (48% 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 great time-saver and adds extra flavor to this dish. Just ensure the chicken is cubed and mixed well with the other ingredients for a cohesive flavor throughout.
What can I substitute for almonds if I have a nut allergy?
If you have a nut allergy, you can substitute the almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts. You can also omit them entirely, and the salad will still be delicious.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the cheese and croutons before baking to ensure they remain crispy. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or hosting.
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).