Paula Deen Hot Chicken Salad Recipe

Dive into Comfort with Paula Deen’s Hot Chicken Salad

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a classic chicken salad, especially when it’s served up hot and bubbling in a casserole dish. I stumbled upon Paula Deen’s Hot Chicken Salad recipe during a family gathering, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. This dish encapsulates the essence of comfort food, combining tender chicken with crunchy almonds, zesty lemon, and creamy mayo. It’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

What Makes This Recipe Special

One of the standout features of Paula Deen’s Hot Chicken Salad is its convenience. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also budget-friendly. This casserole is surprisingly filling, making it an excellent option for families or anyone looking to stretch their meal budget.

“This dish is a family favorite! It’s so easy to make, and we all love the crunchy potato chips on top.”

It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing for easy adaptations based on what you have on hand. Serve it at your next potluck or family gathering, and watch your friends and loved ones request the recipe before they’ve even finished their servings!

Preparing Paula Deen Hot Chicken Salad Recipe

Ready to whip up a creamy, cheesy chicken casserole? This recipe comes together quickly and is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. You’ll first mix the ingredients in a bowl, then spread them into a baking dish topped with crispy potato chips. It’s as straightforward as that! Not only will you enjoy the cooking process, but you’ll also savor the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen while it bakes.

Gather Your Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following essentials:

• 2 cups cooked cubed chicken breast (a rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 cup diced celery
• ½ cup slivered almonds
• 1 cup mayonnaise (consider a low-fat version for a lighter dish)
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp each of salt & pepper
• 1 cup crushed potato chips (for that delightful crunch)

These ingredients blend beautifully, creating a medley of textures and flavors that make each bite a delight!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced celery, slivered almonds, salt, pepper, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese.
3. Stir everything together until well combined. You want to ensure every piece of chicken is coated in that delicious mixture!
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with the crushed potato chips, ensuring they cover the entire surface.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Best Way to Serve

Serve this dish hot, straight from the oven for maximum flavor and warmth. Pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole. A side of crusty bread or rolls is also a lovely addition, perfect for soaking up any extra juice. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the top for an added kick!

Storage Tips

To keep Paula Deen’s Hot Chicken Salad fresh longer, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If you plan to make it ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it. Just add the potato chips before baking for that irresistible crunch!

Helpful Hints

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an extra time-saver, grab a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store. It adds flavor and cuts down prep time significantly.
• Watch the Cheese: For a creamier texture, mix in some cream cheese with the cheddar.
• Add Some Veggies: Sneak in additional veggies like diced bell peppers or even some spinach for an extra nutritional boost.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative! If you want a twist on the classic, consider adding cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor or substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier option. You can also try different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, to switch things up. For a bit of spice, throw in some diced jalapeños!

Your Questions Answered

Q: How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
A: The prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for baking.

Q: Can I use leftover chicken?
A: Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works great in this recipe.

Q: Is it safe to freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just be sure to cover it well, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time as needed.

Now that you know all about Paula Deen’s Hot Chicken Salad, why not gather your ingredients and give this comforting dish a try? It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Paula Deen’s Hot Chicken Salad

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• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A creamy and cheesy chicken casserole topped with crunchy potato chips, perfect for comfort food lovers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked cubed chicken breast
• 1 cup diced celery
• ½ cup slivered almonds
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1 cup crushed potato chips

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced celery, slivered almonds, salt, pepper, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese.
3. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with the crushed potato chips.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, comfort food, easy recipes, potluck, family dinner