Hot Chicken Salad Ii
A comforting hot chicken salad with crunchy potato chips, savory cheese, and almonds, perfect for a cozy dinner or family gathering with rich, textured flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked chicken, finely chopped celery, grated onion, finely chopped green pepper, salad dressing, and salt in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture into a greased rectangular baking dish.
- Top with crushed potato chips, grated cheese, and slivered almonds.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of salad dressing. If you want to lighten the dish, use a low-fat version of the dressing. Adding diced mushrooms can enhance the flavor and moisture. For extra crunch, substitute the slivered almonds with chopped walnuts or pecans. This dish can also be adapted with various vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot chicken salad alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It also works well as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. For a comforting side, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes or the Cheezy Potato Casserole for a deliciously cheesy experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the salad in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the potato chips soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chicken Salad Ii contains roughly 635 calories, with 18g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1288mg per serving (56% 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! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a wonderful flavor. Just make sure to shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead. After assembling the ingredients in the baking dish, cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when baked the next day.
Is it possible to freeze hot chicken salad?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Assemble it in a freezer-safe container, but leave off the potato chips until ready to bake. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and add the chips just before baking for the best texture.
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).