Delicious Southern Chicken Salad Casserole Recipe

When it comes to classic Southern dishes, hot chicken salad ranks high on the list. For those who love hot chicken salad, this cozy and flavorful chicken casserole recipe is a real treat that will make taste buds sing.

This southern chicken salad casserole recipe is something the whole family will love. It’s easy to make and has all of the flavors expected from a traditional hot chicken salad, plus it’s topped with potato chips for added crunch.

Once this recipe is tried, it will quickly become a regular for weeknight dinners or special occasions. So, gathering up these delicious ingredients, putting on some good music, rolling up those sleeves, and cooking up something amazing is highly recommended!

Table of Contents

1. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
2. Ingredient List
3. The Recipe How-To
4. Substitutions and Variations
5. Serving and Pairing
6. Make-Ahead, Storing, and Reheating
7. Tips for Perfect Results
8. Bottom Line
9. Nutrition Facts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Imagine a cozy evening with the craving for something warm and flavorful to feed the family. Look no further than this classic Southern dish with a twist—hot chicken salad casserole.

This recipe is loved for its cozy flavor, versatility, and ease of preparation. The combination of tender chicken breast, crunchy celery, and slivered almonds, topped with crispy potato chips, creates a delightful experience for the taste buds. And, of course, the mayonnaise provides that creamy texture everyone knows and loves.

Not only is this casserole perfect for a comforting dinner at home, but it also shines at potlucks or family gatherings. It’s an excellent choice for impressing guests without requiring too much effort in the kitchen.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its endless customization possibilities. Different types of chicken—whether rotisserie, chunk, or canned—can be used based on availability or personal preference. A bit of pickle relish can add an extra kick of flavor, while shredded cheese right before baking brings extra gooeyness.

This Southern chicken salad casserole recipe is a must-try. The whole family will be asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

Ingredient List

The ingredient list for this delicious Southern Chicken Salad Casserole includes a few classic chicken salad components, along with some unique ingredients that make this casserole truly special.

Salad Casserole Recipe Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (can use rotisserie chicken or canned chicken breast)
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Casserole Ingredients

• 2 cups potato chips
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup fried onions

This mixture creates a cozy and flavorful casserole, perfect for dinner or any time a snack is needed. The recipe includes diced celery, adding a bit of crunch and freshness to the poultry salad. Chopped onions and lemon juice bring an extra kick, while slivered almonds provide a subtle sweetness. When combined with cheese and crispy fried onions, this dish offers an intriguing and out-of-this-world flavor profile.

The Recipe How-To

Now that all the ingredients are gathered, it’s time to dive into the recipe and create a cozy and flavorful Southern chicken salad casserole. By following these step-by-step instructions, anyone can impress their guests with this classic Southern dish.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Salad

To start, in a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked rotisserie chicken, 1 cup of diced onions, 1 cup of diced celery, and 1/2 cup of slivered almonds. Mix well with a spoon.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Next, add the mayo mixture to the bowl with the chicken and vegetables. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 2: Layering the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.

Place half of a bag of potato chips on the bottom of the dish, ensuring there are no gaps between them. Pour the prepared chicken salad over the chips.

Add another layer of chips on top of the chicken salad, followed by 1/4 cup of slivered almonds.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Cover with 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and top with 1/4 cup of fried onions.

Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 4: Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

For an extra crispy chip crunch, serve fresh out of the oven, or let it cool and refrigerate for later, as leftovers taste just as good.

Additional Tips

• To save time, canned chicken breast can be used instead of cooking.
• Add pickle relish to the salad mixture for an extra tangy flavor.
• This recipe also works well with leftover pecan chicken, shredded chicken, or any favorite chicken salad recipe, as long as the ratios remain consistent.
• One great way to enjoy this casserole is with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness.
• Modify the recipe by using baked chips instead of fried or experimenting with different types of nuts for added texture.

Now that this Southern-style recipe is no longer a secret, family dinners are about to become even more delicious!ill never go unnoticed. Have fun making this dish and enjoy every warm and crispy bite!

Substitutions and Variations

When making a classic Southern chicken salad casserole, there are plenty of ways to substitute or vary ingredients to create a unique twist on the recipe without sacrificing flavor. Here are some suggestions:

• Chicken Alternatives: Instead of using chicken breast, try canned chicken breast, shredded chicken, hot chicken, pecan chicken, fried chicken, or chunk chicken for added texture and flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for egg salad sandwiches or eliminate the meat and stick with vegetables.
• Tangy Addition: Love pickles? Add diced pickle relish for an extra kick.
• Lighter Alternative: To cut back on calories, Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise.
• Nut Substitutes: If slivered almonds aren’t available, try using crushed pecans or walnuts instead.
• Extra Savory Flavor: Mix in crumbled bacon for a deeper, smoky taste.
• Crunchy Topping Alternatives: Instead of potato chips, consider using fried onions or crumbled crackers for added crunch.

By experimenting with these substitutions and variations, this classic Southern dish can be customized to personal preference. The possibilities are endless and sure to delight any taste buds!

Serving and Pairing

Now that a delicious Southern Chicken Salad Casserole is prepared, it’s time to consider how best to serve and pair this dish. This cozy and flavorful chicken recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions like potlucks and family gatherings.

How to Serve

To serve, spoon a generous helping of the chicken salad casserole onto a plate and garnish with potato chips for an extra crunch. The combination of the creamy chicken mixture and the crispy chips is simply irresistible. This dish can also be served with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Best Side Dishes

• Fresh Green Salad: A refreshing vinaigrette will help balance the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans add color, nutrition, and a touch of freshness to the meal.

Ideal Beverage Pairings

For drinks, unsweetened iced tea or lemonade is recommended to refresh the palate without overpowering the dish with sweetness.

Overall, this classic Southern hot chicken salad casserole is a family favorite. Its versatility makes it easy to pair with a variety of sides, making it an ideal choice for any occasion when a cozy and flavorful chicken dinner is on the menu.

Make-Ahead, Storing, and Reheating

A hot chicken salad casserole is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but sometimes preparing it right before dinner isn’t possible. Here are some helpful make-ahead, storage, and reheating tips to ensure a cozy and flavorful dish anytime.

Make-Ahead Instructions

To prepare this Southern-style chicken salad casserole in advance, follow steps 1-6 of the recipe but stop before adding the potato chips. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.

Baking After Refrigeration

When ready to bake:

1. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven to the instructed temperature.
3. Top with crushed potato chips and proceed with step 7 of the recipe.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store cooled casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Store for up to 1 month for a longer shelf life.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven (Best Method): Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave (Quick Option): Transfer an individual portion to a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes until warm.

⚠ Important: Never leave reheated chicken salad casserole out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

By following these simple tips, this classic Southern chicken dish can be enjoyed anytime, whether freshly baked or conveniently reheated!

Tips for Perfect Results

To ensure your Southern Chicken Salad Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips for the best flavor and texture.

• Tip #1: Don’t Overcook the Chicken
  Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough, so it’s crucial to monitor the cooking time. The best method is to poach the chicken breast in simmering water until it’s fully cooked but still tender. Alternatively, using leftover rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor.
• Tip #2: Use Fresh Ingredients
  Fresh ingredients make a huge difference in taste. Ensure that your onions and celery are crisp and not past their prime. For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled.
• Tip #3: Choose the Right Potato Chips
  For the topping, opt for thick-cut potato chips rather than thin ones, which can become soggy. Spreading them evenly over the casserole ensures a crispy, satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Tip #4: Add Slivered Almonds for Extra Crunch
  If you enjoy a bit of crunch in your casserole, adding slivered almonds enhances both texture and taste. For extra richness, toast them lightly in a skillet with a small amount of olive oil and salt until golden brown and fragrant.
• Tip #5: Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving
  For the best consistency, let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This allows everything to set properly. If you’re making it ahead, gently reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

By following these tips, you’ll create a cozy and flavorful Southern Chicken Salad Casserole that’s sure to be a family favorite!

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this amazing Southern Chicken Salad Casserole Recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a dish that will leave their taste buds fully satisfied. It’s a classic Southern dish that perfectly balances the tender cooked chicken, the crispy slivered almonds, the crunchy celery, and the richness of mayonnaise. Moreover, the addition of lemon juice, salt, and pepper adds an extra layer of flavor that complements each ingredient in this dish.

The Secret Ingredient: Potato Chips

The power of potato chips should not be underestimated when it comes to elevating recipes. In this recipe, they provide a cozy and flavorful topping that delights the senses with every bite.

Easy, Budget-Friendly, and Versatile

This recipe is highly recommended as it is easy to make, budget-friendly, and can be tailored to suit any occasion or preference. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday family gatherings. Once prepared, it’s sure to earn compliments from everyone who tastes it.

A Southern-Inspired Delight

For those seeking more dinner recipes inspired by Southern-style cuisine, this mouthwatering recipe is an excellent choice. With so many options for substitutions and variations, this Southern Chicken Salad Casserole Recipe is ideal for anyone who loves hot chicken salad but wants to switch up their traditional way of making it. The possibilities are endless!

Give this recipe a try today and watch as it becomes a firm favorite among family and friends. Disappointment is unlikely!