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If you’re craving a comfort food classic that brings together crunchy textures, creamy richness, and a hint of tangy brightness, let me introduce you to The BEST Hot Chicken Salad Recipe. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious. Imagine tender chunks of chicken mingling with crisp water chestnuts, toasted almonds, and celery, all bathed in a luscious blend of creamy mayonnaise and savory cream of chicken soup, then finished with a golden crown of crispy French fried onions. Perfectly baked to bubbling perfection, this recipe is a true celebration of hearty flavors and satisfying textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple but plays an essential role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From crunchy almonds adding a nutty depth to the zing of lemon juice that cuts through the creaminess, every component is a star in its own right.
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken: The tender, protein-packed heart of the salad that brings substance and comfort.
- 1 cup sliced almonds: Toasted for a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy elements.
- 1 (8-oz) can sliced water chestnuts (drained): Adds a crisp, refreshing texture to brighten each bite.
- 1 (4-oz) jar diced pimentos (drained): Provides subtle sweetness and color to enliven the dish.
- 2 cups chopped celery: Fresh and crunchy, balancing out the creamy texture with vibrant crispness.
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice: A splash of acidity that brightens the flavors and cuts through richness.
- 1½ cups mayonnaise: The creamy binder that brings everything together with velvety smoothness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and melty goodness throughout the salad.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Keeps the mixture moist and introduces comforting savory notes.
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste): Enhances flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
- ½ tsp pepper (or to taste): Adds a gentle warmth that uplifts the overall taste.
- 1 (3-oz) can French fried onions: The crispy golden topping that adds irresistible crunch and aroma at the end.
How to Make The BEST Hot Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350ºF and generously spray a 9x13x2-inch pan with cooking spray. This ensures your hot chicken salad won’t stick and that cleanup is a breeze. Getting your workspace ready ahead of time makes the whole process feel smooth and manageable.
Step 2: Combine All the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped cooked chicken, sliced almonds, drained water chestnuts, diced pimentos, and chopped celery. These fresh and crunchy components set the foundation. Next, add in the lemon juice, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to coat every piece—this is where the magic happens, with creamy, tangy, cheesy goodness melding with savory chicken and crispy bits.
Step 3: Bake Until Bubbling
Pour the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake it uncovered for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the top to get warm and inviting. This step creates that homey, bubbling texture that is so comforting.
Step 4: Add the Crispy Onion Topping
After the initial baking, sprinkle the French fried onions generously over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This finishing touch creates a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy salad beneath, making every bite a delight.
How to Serve The BEST Hot Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top after baking. Not only does this add a pop of fresh color, but it also gives a subtle herbal brightness that complements the hearty flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish is a showstopper on its own but pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed seasonal vegetables balances the richness wonderfully. For a cozier meal, a warm slice of crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls make perfect accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For family gatherings or potlucks, consider serving this hot chicken salad in individual ramekins topped with French fried onions for a personal touch. Alternatively, spoon it into hollowed-out crisp lettuce leaves for a fun finger-food experience that’s both easy to handle and visually appealing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and trust me, you might), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad will continue to absorb the flavors, becoming even more delicious. Just keep the crispy onion topping separate if possible to maintain its crunch.
Freezing
The BEST Hot Chicken Salad Recipe freezes well and is perfect for meal prepping. Transfer the cooled salad (without French fried onions) into a freezer-safe container, sealing tightly. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer your salad to an oven-safe dish, top with fresh French fried onions, and bake at 350ºF until warmed through and the topping is crispy again, about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delicious crispy texture on top.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds extra flavor and convenience without sacrificing quality.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the French fried onions with gluten-free crispy onions and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Feel free to experiment! Diced bell peppers or chopped green onions can add extra color and flavor, but the classic combo is truly a winner as is.
What can I substitute for the mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well to maintain creaminess while adding a slight tang to balance the dish.
How spicy is The BEST Hot Chicken Salad Recipe?
This recipe is traditionally mild and comforting, focusing on creamy, savory, and crunchy textures without any heat. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you like a bit of spice.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comforting, nostalgic recipe that’s easy to prepare yet packed with amazing flavors and textures, you absolutely have to try The BEST Hot Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want a cozy, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me when I say this one will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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The BEST Hot Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This BEST Hot Chicken Salad is a warm, comforting casserole featuring tender cooked chicken mixed with crunchy almonds, water chestnuts, pimentos, celery, and cheddar cheese in a creamy mayonnaise and cream of chicken soup base. Baked to perfection and topped with crispy French fried onions, it makes an easy and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1 (8-oz) can sliced water chestnuts, drained
- 1 (4-oz) jar diced pimentos, drained
- 2 cups chopped celery
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1½ cups mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp pepper (or to taste)
Topping
- 1 (3-oz) can French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9x13x2-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped cooked chicken, sliced almonds, drained water chestnuts, drained diced pimentos, chopped celery, and lemon juice. Stir in the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, unsalted cream of chicken soup, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly combined.
- Spread Mixture in Pan: Spread the combined chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to heat through thoroughly.
- Add Topping and Continue Baking: After the initial baking, remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the onions are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy the hot chicken salad as a tasty main dish or side for your meal.
Notes
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- For extra crunch, toast the sliced almonds lightly before adding.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for up to 3 days.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure French fried onions are gluten-free or omit them.
