Hot Chicken Saladwestboro, Missouri
A creamy, crunchy hot chicken salad with almonds, celery, and cheese, baked to perfection. A comforting dish ideal for family dinners or potlucks with a savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9 x 9-inch casserole dish, combine diced cooked chicken or turkey, diced celery, and sliced almonds.
- Blend grated onions, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and salt (pepper if desired).
- Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and crushed potato chips.
- Bake until heated through and topping is golden, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using cooked chicken that has been seasoned with herbs or spices. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also swap the almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor. If you don't have celery, diced bell peppers make a great substitute. This dish is versatile and can fit nicely alongside other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Hot Chicken Salad is delicious served warm and makes a great main dish. Pair it with a light green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted potatoes or rice. It also works well as a filling in a sandwich or wrap. Try it with a side of the Oven Fried Drumsticks for a complete family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chicken Saladwestboro, Missouri contains roughly 321 calories, with 15g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1554mg per serving (68% 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 way to save time and add flavor. Just ensure the chicken is diced into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the casserole. This also makes the dish a convenient option for using up leftovers from a previous meal.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Hot Chicken Salad a day in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise with a healthier option?
Certainly! For a healthier alternative, you can use plain Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. This will lower the fat content while adding creaminess and a slight tang. You can also mix in some Dijon mustard for extra flavor, enhancing the dish without compromising its 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).