Mrs. Nixon'S Chicken Salad
Mrs. Nixon's Chicken Salad is a rich, flavorful dish combining tender chicken, hard-boiled eggs, crunchy celery, toasted almonds, and melted cheese, perfect for a hearty lunch or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cold chicken chunks, lemon juice, mayonnaise, salt, monosodium glutamate, chopped celery, sliced hard-cooked eggs, minced onion, and finely cut pimentos in a large baking dish.
- Cover with grated cheese and refrigerate overnight.
- Before baking, add potato chips and chopped toasted almonds.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, add diced apples or grapes to the salad. You can also replace the toasted almonds with walnuts or pecans. Make sure to let the salad chill overnight for the best flavor. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a great potluck option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken salad warm, topped with crispy potato chips for added texture. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or a side of Vegetable Cheddar Soup for a comforting meal. For a complete spread, consider serving with Maryland Crab Bisque or a light fruit salad to balance flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Nixon'S Chicken Salad contains roughly 1218 calories, with 13g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1698mg per serving (74% 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 salad. Just ensure the chicken is cold and cut into chunks before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, this chicken salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld. Just add the potato chips and toasted almonds right before serving for optimal crunch.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise if I want a healthier option?
You can use Greek yogurt or a mixture of Greek yogurt and avocado for a healthier alternative to mayonnaise. This will give you a creamy texture while reducing calories. You can also try using cottage cheese for a different flavor profile.
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).