Hot Chicken Salad
Hot Chicken Salad is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with crunchy celery and pecans, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. Topped with crispy potato chips, this casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together cooked chopped chicken, salt, crushed potato chips, chopped celery, salad dressing or mayo, chopped onions, chopped pecans, drained mushrooms, and lemon juice, except for the soup and chips.
- Place the mixture in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Spoon the cream of chicken soup on top.
- Sprinkle with crushed potato chips.
- Bake in a 350° oven for about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayo or salad dressing. If you're looking for a crunchier topping, substitute the crushed potato chips with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also elevate the flavor profile. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot chicken salad with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Potluck Potatoes for a hearty gathering. For a more casual meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or over a bed of rice. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help retain the crispiness of the potato chip topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chicken Salad contains roughly 546 calories, with 11g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (105% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1994mg per serving (87% 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 not only saves time but also adds a wonderful flavor to your hot chicken salad. Just make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces and mix it in with the other ingredients as directed.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a healthier option or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup. This will still provide the creaminess needed for the dish while offering a different flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the hot chicken salad a day in advance. Just prepare the mixture and place it in the casserole dish, then cover it and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply add the cream of chicken soup and potato chips on top and bake as directed.
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).