Elaine'S Hot Chicken Salad Casserole
Creamy and crunchy hot chicken salad casserole combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, nuts, and melted cheese, topped with crispy potato chips—perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the chicken, celery, almonds, green pepper, pimento, onion, salt, lemon juice, and mayonnaise together.
- Turn the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated Swiss or Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add crushed potato chips as a topping.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. If you prefer, try using cashews or walnuts instead of almonds. For extra flavor, you might add a dash of hot sauce or some curry powder for an interesting kick. This dish can be easily adjusted to accommodate dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal. For a comforting side, consider offering a fruit salad or roasted potatoes. Explore more comforting American recipes that complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry out the casserole.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elaine'S Hot Chicken Salad Casserole contains roughly 148 calories, with 5g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (96% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1094mg 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it as directed, cover it, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with a combination of cooked quinoa and additional vegetables to maintain the texture and flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed, and consider adding more cheese for richness.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Swiss or Cheddar cheese are both excellent choices for this casserole. Swiss cheese adds a nutty flavor, while Cheddar provides a sharper taste. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice.
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).