Hot Chicken Or Ham Salad
A hearty baked casserole combining diced chicken or ham with rice, eggs, vegetables, and almonds, offering a comforting, savory flavor profile suited for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Place all ingredients in a baking dish and mix well.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or using Greek yogurt as a substitute. If you're looking for a crunchier topping, sprinkle some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking. You can also replace chicken with turkey for a post-holiday dish or mix in some sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hot Chicken or Ham Salad warm, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing cucumber salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a simple pasta dish to round out the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salad in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chicken Or Ham Salad contains roughly 971 calories, with 13g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2188mg per serving (95% 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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this salad, saving you time and adding great flavor. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones, then dice the chicken before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just wait to bake it until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just remember to adjust the baking time as it may take a bit longer if baked straight from the fridge.
What can I serve as a side with this dish?
For a well-rounded meal, consider serving a light coleslaw or steamed green beans as sides. These options provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salad. You could also serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or a grain salad for a heartier pairing.
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).