Hot Chicken Salad Oriental
A creamy, savory hot chicken salad with a touch of soy and lemon, topped with crispy chow mein noodles for texture. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck, this dish combines tender chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and flavorful seasonings in a baked casserole that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, stir together cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, soy sauce, and lemon juice until blended.
- Stir in cooked cubed chicken, chopped celery, drained sliced water chestnuts, and chopped onion.
- Add cooked, drained macaroni; toss to coat well.
- Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with chow mein noodles.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a dash of sriracha or cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also substitute the water chestnuts with diced bell peppers for a different crunch. This dish is versatile, so feel free to add other vegetables or nuts to enhance the flavor, similar to Chicken Spaghetti Tetrazzini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hot Chicken Salad Oriental with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa for added texture. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or a crusty baguette. This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a perfect addition to your collection of American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chicken Salad Oriental contains roughly 979 calories, with 8g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1963mg per serving (85% 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 extra flavor to the dish. Just make sure to shred or cube the chicken before adding it to the mixture, and you can skip the cooking step for this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Hot Chicken Salad Oriental?
This dish is quite versatile. It pairs well with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with garlic bread or buttery biscuits. You could also enjoy it as a sandwich filling, using the salad as a spread on your favorite bread.
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).