Faye Reed'S Hot Chicken Salad
A creamy, savory chicken casserole with crunchy almonds and tender green beans, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings that enjoy rich and hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch casserole dish.
- Top with slivered almonds and paprika.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 300° to 350° Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of boiled chicken. If you prefer a bit more crunch, substitute slivered almonds with crushed tortilla chips. You can also enhance the dish with a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of hot sauce for some heat. If you want a creamier texture, try using a mix of mayonnaise and sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
This Hot Chicken Salad is perfect as a main dish, served alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread. For a complete meal, pair it with Oven Hash Potatoes for a comforting side. It's also great for potlucks or family gatherings, where it can be served warm or at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Faye Reed'S Hot Chicken Salad contains roughly 883 calories, with 10g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1744mg per serving (76% 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 a different type of soup?
Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for the cream of celery. This will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the new soup choice.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats thoroughly.
Can I freeze Hot Chicken Salad leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just ensure it is in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven. Keep in mind that the texture of the rice may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be tasty.
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).