Is there anything better than a warm, hearty casserole that feels like a big hug on a plate? I don’t think so! That’s why I’m thrilled to share with you my Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole recipe. This dish has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy family dinners when my mom would whip it up after a long day. The blend of flavors and textures just hits the spot; it’s crunchy, creamy, and satisfying all at once!
One of the reasons I love this casserole is its versatility. You can throw in leftover rotisserie chicken, use up veggies from your fridge, or swap out the toppings to cater to your taste—the options are endless! Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, so it’s perfect for gatherings or just a simple weeknight dinner.
What’s in Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this casserole sing!
Chicken: The star of the show! I always recommend using shredded rotisserie chicken for ease, but you can bake or poach your own for a more homemade touch.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the base that brings everything together and adds a creamy richness. I love using low-fat cream soups, but any brand will do. Campbell’s is a classic choice!
Mayonnaise: Just the right amount of mayo adds that necessary creaminess. I prefer using full-fat for the richness, but low-fat options work if you’re watching calories.
Celery: Not only does it add a nice crunch, but it also brings some freshness to the dish. I usually chop it finely for even distribution.
Green Onions: These little green gems add a wonderful zing! Plus, who can resist that pop of color?
Cheddar Cheese: Because cheese makes everything better! I use sharp cheddar for that bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese.
Potato Chips: The crispy topping is essential! I prefer classic Lay’s chips—simple, salty, and oh-so-good.
Is Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole Good for You?
Well, that depends on how you look at it! This casserole is comfort food in the best way possible.
Chicken: Packed with protein, chicken is a great way to feel full and satisfied. Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and often has the added bonus of being lower in fat since the skin is usually removed when you shred it.
Cream of Chicken Soup & Mayonnaise: While they provide that creamy texture we love, they can also be higher in sodium and calories. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider making your own condensed soup with whole ingredients or swap the mayo for Greek yogurt—trust me, it will still taste amazing!
Vegetables: With celery and green onions in the mix, you’re getting some fiber and vitamins. Yay, healthy stuff!
Keep in mind that like any indulgent dish, moderation is key. Enjoy this casserole as part of a balanced diet, and you’ll be golden!
Ingredients
– 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 1 whole rotisserie chicken)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 2 cups potato chips, crushed (for topping)
Serves: 6-8
How to Make Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, chopped celery, green onions, and cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is nicely combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Crush the potato chips and sprinkle them generously on top of the chicken mixture—don’t be shy here!
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the potato chips are golden brown.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Want to jazz it up a bit? Here are some ideas:
– **Veggie Add-Ins**: Toss in some frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for a colorful twist.
– **Spice It Up**: If you like a little kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
– **Different Toppings**: Instead of potato chips, try crushed buttery crackers, or even parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile.
This casserole is fantastic paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. You can also serve it with some fresh fruit on the side for a touch of sweetness.
I hope you give this Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole a try! It’s a dish that I know will warm your heart as much as it warms your tummy. I’d love to hear about your experiences with it, so don’t forget to drop me a note about how it turned out! Happy cooking!
