ADVERTISEMENT

Hot Chicken Salad: A Retro Delight That’s Perfect for Modern Kitchens

Hot Chicken Salad is a timeless dish that brings a touch of nostalgia to the dinner table while offering a hearty, comforting meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings, combining rich, creamy textures with a satisfying crunch. The combination of cooked chicken, tangy mayonnaise, crunchy water chestnuts, and a golden potato chip topping creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight both young and old. Whether you’re looking to whip up a dish that feels like home or want to try a retro classic with a modern twist, Hot Chicken Salad is the perfect choice.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Hot Chicken Salad: A Retro Delight That’s Perfect for Modern Kitchens

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Experience the nostalgia with Hot Chicken Salad—a delicious blend of creamy, crunchy, and cheesy! 🍗🥗 This retro-inspired dish features tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and a crispy topping that’s baked to golden perfection. 🌞 It’s simple, satisfying, and the ultimate comfort food for modern kitchens. Try it today and savor the timeless flavor! 😍

#ChickenSaladBake 🥗 #RetroClassic 🌟 #ComfortInEveryBite 🍗 #CrispyAndCreamy ✨ #FamilyDinnerIdeas 🏡 #GoldenTopping 💛 #FlavorFusion 😋 #CheesyLove 🧀 #EasyAndDelicious 🍽️ #ModernComfortFood ❤️

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • Cooked Diced Chicken (4 cups): The base of this recipe, chicken, provides lean protein and a savory foundation. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, poached chicken, or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
  • Finely Chopped Celery (1/2 cup): Adds a refreshing crunch and a slight earthiness, balancing the creamy elements.
  • Grated Onion (1 tablespoon): This small addition packs a big punch, contributing subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • Mayonnaise (1 cup): Creates a rich and creamy base while binding all the ingredients together.
  • Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.75 ounces): Enhances the creaminess and provides a savory, chicken-forward flavor.
  • Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): A splash of lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness.
  • Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick of spice to balance the flavors.
  • Slivered Almonds (1/2 cup): These bring a delightful nuttiness and crunch, elevating the overall texture.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts into the mixture, adding gooeyness and a sharp, tangy flavor.
  • Chopped Water Chestnuts (1 can, 8 ounces): Their unique crunch and mild sweetness add an unexpected yet welcome element to the dish.
  • Salt (to taste): Adjust according to the saltiness of your chicken and personal preference.
  • Coarsely Crushed Potato Chips (1 1/2 cups): A retro-inspired topping that turns golden and crispy in the oven, providing a textural contrast to the creamy filling.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 11×7-inch casserole dish to ensure the filling doesn’t stick, making it easy to serve and clean up afterward.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, grated onion, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, lemon juice, black pepper, slivered almonds, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped water chestnuts. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the mixture and add salt as needed. Depending on the saltiness of your chicken and cream of chicken soup, you might need anywhere from 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the coarsely crushed potato chips over the top, ensuring the entire surface is covered. This layer will bake to golden perfection, adding a delightful crunch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. The filling should be hot and bubbly, and the potato chip topping should be golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, either on its own or paired with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • Choose Your Chicken Wisely: Leftover rotisserie chicken or poached chicken breast works beautifully. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken strips from the grocery store are a convenient option.
  • Perfect Your Potato Chips: Ruffled chips hold up better during baking, maintaining their crunch. For a flavor twist, try using sour cream and onion or barbecue-flavored chips.
  • Customize the Crunch: If you’re not a fan of almonds, you can substitute them with pecans or walnuts. For a nut-free version, omit the nuts altogether and add extra water chestnuts.
  • Add Some Heat: For a spicy variation, mix a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling.
  • Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a Mexican cheese blend for a unique flavor profile.
  • Author: Rosa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this dish, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully:

  • Cooked Diced Chicken (4 cups): The base of this recipe, chicken, provides lean protein and a savory foundation. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, poached chicken, or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
  • Finely Chopped Celery (1/2 cup): Adds a refreshing crunch and a slight earthiness, balancing the creamy elements.
  • Grated Onion (1 tablespoon): This small addition packs a big punch, contributing subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • Mayonnaise (1 cup): Creates a rich and creamy base while binding all the ingredients together.
  • Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.75 ounces): Enhances the creaminess and provides a savory, chicken-forward flavor.
  • Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): A splash of lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness.
  • Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick of spice to balance the flavors.
  • Slivered Almonds (1/2 cup): These bring a delightful nuttiness and crunch, elevating the overall texture.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts into the mixture, adding gooeyness and a sharp, tangy flavor.
  • Chopped Water Chestnuts (1 can, 8 ounces): Their unique crunch and mild sweetness add an unexpected yet welcome element to the dish.
  • Salt (to taste): Adjust according to the saltiness of your chicken and personal preference.
  • Coarsely Crushed Potato Chips (1 1/2 cups): A retro-inspired topping that turns golden and crispy in the oven, providing a textural contrast to the creamy filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 11×7-inch casserole dish to ensure the filling doesn’t stick, making it easy to serve and clean up afterward.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, grated onion, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, lemon juice, black pepper, slivered almonds, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped water chestnuts. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the mixture and add salt as needed. Depending on the saltiness of your chicken and cream of chicken soup, you might need anywhere from 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the coarsely crushed potato chips over the top, ensuring the entire surface is covered. This layer will bake to golden perfection, adding a delightful crunch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. The filling should be hot and bubbly, and the potato chip topping should be golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, either on its own or paired with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables.

Vivid Descriptions: Flavors, Textures, and Aromas

As the casserole bakes, your kitchen will be filled with the comforting aroma of creamy chicken and melted cheese, punctuated by the nuttiness of the almonds and the subtle tang of the lemon juice. When you take your first bite, you’ll experience a delightful medley of textures: the creamy, cheesy filling complemented by the crunch of celery, almonds, and water chestnuts. The potato chip topping adds the perfect crispy contrast, making each mouthful a delightful blend of rich and crunchy.

The flavors are equally layered and satisfying. The chicken provides a savory base, enhanced by the creaminess of the mayonnaise and soup. The cheddar cheese adds a tangy, gooey element, while the lemon juice and onion balance the richness with brightness and depth. Every ingredient works harmoniously to create a dish that is both nostalgic and contemporary.

Tips for Success

  • Choose Your Chicken Wisely: Leftover rotisserie chicken or poached chicken breast works beautifully. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken strips from the grocery store are a convenient option.
  • Perfect Your Potato Chips: Ruffled chips hold up better during baking, maintaining their crunch. For a flavor twist, try using sour cream and onion or barbecue-flavored chips.
  • Customize the Crunch: If you’re not a fan of almonds, you can substitute them with pecans or walnuts. For a nut-free version, omit the nuts altogether and add extra water chestnuts.
  • Add Some Heat: For a spicy variation, mix a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling.
  • Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a Mexican cheese blend for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Hot Chicken Salad pairs wonderfully with simple sides that let its flavors shine. Here are a few serving ideas:

  1. Fresh Green Salad: A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
  2. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make for healthy, vibrant accompaniments.
  3. Buttery Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up the creamy filling.
  4. Rice or Quinoa: For a more substantial meal, serve the casserole over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa.

Variations to Try

  • Low-Carb Option: Replace the potato chip topping with crushed pork rinds or a mix of almond flour and grated Parmesan cheese for a keto-friendly version.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the chicken with diced cooked tofu or roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
  • Make It a Meal Prep Star: Divide the mixture into individual ramekins or oven-safe containers for easy, portion-controlled meals throughout the week.

Why This Recipe Works

Hot Chicken Salad stands out because it combines simplicity with versatility. The recipe uses pantry staples, making it easy to whip up at a moment’s notice, yet it delivers restaurant-quality results. Its retro roots give it a nostalgic charm, while the ability to customize and modernize the dish ensures it remains relevant for today’s cooks.

Encouragement for Home Cooks

This recipe is designed to be approachable for cooks of all skill levels. The straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients mean you don’t need to be a culinary expert to achieve fantastic results. Plus, the forgiving nature of the dish allows for creativity and adaptation based on what you have on hand. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a classic casserole that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Hot Chicken Salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition that brings people together around the table. Its comforting flavors, satisfying textures, and warm memories make it a dish worth sharing. So, the next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser, remember this retro gem, and let it shine in your kitchen.

ADVERTISEMENT

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

ADVERTISEMENT