Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole

Chicken salad is a classic side dish that you can find at just about any picnic, backyard barbecue, or game day get-together, but you don’t generally find too many variations on the classic version. Now, we love chicken salad just as much as the next person, but we decided it needed to have some new life breathed into it – which we did by turning it into a casserole!

That’s right, instead of the traditional cold chicken salad, we turned this into a hot and bubbly dish that we topped off with a little something crunchy…potato chips! With all the elements of the time-honored dish – chicken, mayo, bacon, and celery – we added a few unexpected ingredients (hello, potato chips) and turned this into a bonafide meal! You might see some surprised faces when you explain what you’re making, but once they try it they’ll be hooked for good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole combines the comforting flavors of a classic chicken salad with a delightful twist. The crunch of the potato chips on top perfectly complements the creamy, savory filling, making it a satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s easy to make, perfect for gatherings, and offers a unique take on a beloved favorite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Square baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup potato chips, slightly crushed
• 1 1/4 cups mayonnaise
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 tablespoon dry ranch mix
• 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350º F and lightly grease a square baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Place chicken, cheese, celery, and bacon in a large bowl.
3. In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ranch mix, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir mayonnaise mixture into chicken until everything is evenly coated, then transfer everything to the greased baking dish.
5. Top baking dish with crushed potato chips, then place in oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until mixture is hot and bubbly and cheese is melted.
6. Remove from oven and serve hot.

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your chicken is cooked and cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients. Using sharp cheddar cheese will provide a more pronounced cheesy flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste, and don’t skip the potato chips—they add a wonderful texture that makes this dish stand out!

Additional Tips or Variations

Want to add more veggies? Consider mixing in some chopped bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and color. You could also experiment with different types of chips, like kettle-cooked or flavored varieties, to add a unique twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 400
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add the potato chips and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe and adds a lovely flavor.

Conclusion

We hope you’re as excited about this Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole as we are! It’s a delicious new take on a classic dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out—we’d love to hear about your cooking adventures and any fun variations you might try!