Hot Chicken Salad(Casserole)
Creamy, savory hot chicken casserole with crunchy almonds and fresh vegetables, baked to golden perfection—an easy comfort dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Add the cooked, cubed chicken, chopped celery, slivered almonds, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, and chopped pimento; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle the diced fresh bread evenly over the top.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you prefer a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can substitute the slivered almonds with walnuts or pecans if desired. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking, making it a great choice for busy days or when preparing for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot chicken salad with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with baked potatoes or crusty bread. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice. This dish is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover hot chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, making sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chicken Salad(Casserole) contains roughly 547 calories, with 9g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 891mg per serving (39% 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 mixing it in with the other ingredients. This is a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers and minimize waste.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a healthier option or need a gluten-free alternative, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup or a can of coconut milk mixed with chicken broth. Alternatively, a store-bought creamy mushroom soup can work well as a substitute, enhancing the dish's flavor profile.
Can I freeze hot chicken salad?
Yes, you can freeze hot chicken salad before baking. Just prepare the mixture, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.
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).