Baked Hot Chicken Salad
A creamy, cheesy baked chicken salad topped with crispy potato chips, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked chicken, sliced celery, bread cubes, salt, grated onion, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Place the mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese and crushed potato chips.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture. Make sure to evenly distribute the potato chips on top for a crunchy finish. This dish can be customized with your favorite vegetables, just like in the American recipes category.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Baked Hot Chicken Salad warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad, such as a refreshing San Diego Salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You could also microwave individual portions, but be mindful not to overheat, as this can make the dish dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Hot Chicken Salad contains roughly 294 calories, with 4g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2065mg per serving (90% 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 other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute cooked turkey or even diced ham for the chicken. Just ensure that the meat is fully cooked before mixing it into the salad to maintain the dish's flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the cheese and potato chips right before baking to preserve their texture. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you want to avoid canned soup, you can make a homemade version using a roux of butter and flour, mixed with chicken broth and milk. This will give you a creamier and fresher flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
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).