Eleanor'S Hot Chicken Salad
A creamy, savory hot chicken salad with almonds and green peppers, perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks, served warm over crispy chow mein noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss the diced, cooked chicken and chopped celery together and set aside.
- Combine mayonnaise, sliced almonds, lemon juice, chopped onion, salt, Parmesan cheese, green pepper, chopped pimento, and cream of chicken soup in a bowl and mix well.
- Stir in the chicken and celery mixture thoroughly until well blended.
- Transfer the mixture to a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish and cover.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 to 35 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot over chow mein noodles or with noodles on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mayonnaise. You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a different flavor. If you're short on time, use a rotisserie chicken. Adding spices like paprika or garlic powder can enhance the dish further. This recipe pairs beautifully with Cooley'S Chicken Casserole for a satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Eleanor's Hot Chicken Salad hot over crispy chow mein noodles for a delightful crunch. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings and can also be served as a filling for wraps or sandwiches for a delicious lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 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 chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eleanor'S Hot Chicken Salad contains roughly 605 calories, with 17g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1887mg per serving (82% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bake it right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup as a substitute. This will add a slightly different flavor but will still work well in the recipe.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein. Additionally, ensure that the mayonnaise and cream of chicken soup are vegetarian-friendly to keep the dish meat-free.
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).