Hot Chicken Salad Casserole
A comforting hot chicken salad casserole packed with tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and melted cheese, all topped with crispy potato chips. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, this dish offers creamy, savory flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it a crowd-pleasing and hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced cooked chicken ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped celery ⓘ
- 1 cup toasted slivered almonds ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons grated onion ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1 cup mayonnaise ⓘ
- 4 tablespoons chopped pimiento (optional) ⓘ
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice ⓘ
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10 3/4 oz), undiluted ⓘ
- 2 hard-boiled eggs chopped ⓘ
- 2 cups grated sharp cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Combine all ingredients except potato chips and cheese; blend well together.
- Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased 3-quart shallow casserole dish.
- Top with grated cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle potato chips over the surface.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or using Greek yogurt as a substitute. If you prefer a crunchier topping, try using crushed cornflakes instead of potato chips. You can also swap out the almonds for pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile. Adding a dash of garlic powder can enhance the dish's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own, but serving it alongside a fresh salad or alongside a bowl of Chicken and Rice In Green Vegetable Broth can elevate the meal. For a heartier option, pair it with Confetti Rice. A dollop of onion dip can also add a delightful twist when served with veggies or chips.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the casserole in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven method will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chicken Salad Casserole contains roughly 560 calories, with 10g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2162mg per serving (94% 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 the day before and refrigerate it unbaked. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed, until it's heated through and bubbly.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you want a healthier or homemade alternative, you can use a mixture of homemade chicken broth thickened with a roux, or substitute with a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Just ensure the consistency is similar to keep the casserole creamy.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free or make your own. Additionally, check that any chips or toppings used are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without any gluten concerns.
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).