Julia'S Hot Chicken Salad
Julia's Hot Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and savory mushrooms in a creamy, comforting dish topped with potato chips, perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except soup and chips; put in 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Can be refrigerated at this point.
- Pour soup over mixture, do not stir in.
- Top with crushed potato chips.
- Bake at 300° F for 30 minutes.
- Slightly longer if it has been refrigerated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. If you want to add extra crunch, try using walnuts or pecans instead of almonds. Incorporating some diced bell peppers can also enhance the flavor profile of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Hot Chicken Salad is delicious served warm with a side of mixed greens or a light coleslaw. Consider pairing it with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal. It also works well as a filling for sandwich wraps. For a comforting dinner, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a side of The Ultimate Chicken Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 300°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the potato chips soggy. If needed, add fresh chips on top after reheating for a crunchy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Julia'S Hot Chicken Salad contains roughly 441 calories, with 12g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1127mg per serving (49% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw and cook it before chopping. This will ensure even cooking and the best flavor. It's ideal to use freshly cooked or leftover chicken for optimal texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Certainly! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or a mix of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers. Use vegetable cream soup instead of cream of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients (except the soup and chips) and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add the soup and potato chips right before baking to maintain their 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).