Henny Penny(Hot Chicken Salad)
Hot chicken salad with crunchy almonds, melted cheese, and crispy potato chips offers a savory, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked chicken, diced celery, toasted chopped almonds, salt, monosodium glutamate, grated onion, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Place the mixture in a buttered baking dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top of the mixture.
- Add crushed potato chips over the cheese.
- Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 20 to 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt in place of half the mayonnaise. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut. Feel free to swap out almonds for walnuts or pecans based on your preference. To add a bit more flavor, try incorporating some garlic powder or even a dash of hot sauce. This dish can be easily adapted to fit your tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Henny Penny pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious flavors. For a heartier option, try it with a side of garlic bread. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, where it can shine as a comforting centerpiece.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer the potato chips to stay crunchy, consider adding them fresh on top just before serving. This ensures they retain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Henny Penny(Hot Chicken Salad) contains roughly 423 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of potassium (18% of the Daily Value), protein (17% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1672mg per serving (73% 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 Henny Penny ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a great choice for this dish due to its sharp flavor and melting qualities. However, you can also use Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a different taste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider adding some crumbled blue cheese or feta as well.
Is it possible to make Henny Penny vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas for protein. This will not only make it vegetarian but also add a different texture and flavor profile. Just ensure that the mayonnaise used is egg-free to keep it fully vegetarian.
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).