A Hot Chicken Salad Bake is a savory casserole that combines cooked chicken, vegetables, almonds, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a crunchy layer of crushed potato chips. It's baked to golden perfection, offering a unique blend of textures and flavors that are sure to please any palate. This dish is perfect for those who love a good chicken casserole but want something a little different.
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Hot Chicken Salad Bake
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Hot Chicken Salad Bake
Ingredients
- 1 kg 2 pounds chicken thighs
- 1 carrot cut into cubes
- 1 bell pepper cut into cubes
- ⅓ cup sliced almonds
- ⅔ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½ cup potato chips crushed
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for around 35 minutes or until fully cooked. Let cool down before cutting into cubes.1 kg 2 pounds chicken thighs, olive oil for frying
- Saute chopped carrots and bell pepper with some olive oil for 7 minutes. Add in almonds and chili flakes, cook for 1 minute.1 carrot, 1 bell pepper, ⅓ cup sliced almonds, olive oil for frying, 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- In a large bowl combine cooked chicken with vegetables and almonds, season with lemon juice, celery salt, Worcestershire sauce and mix in the mayonnaise.1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon celery salt, ⅔ cup mayonnaise
- Transfer salad into a baking pan and top with crushed chips.1 ½ cup potato chips, 1 cup shredded cheese
- Bake for 20-25 minutes at 180C/350F.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 1 kg (2 pounds) chicken thighs
- 1 carrot, cut into cubes
- 1 bell pepper, cut into cubes
- ⅓ cup sliced almonds
- ⅔ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½ cup potato chips, crushed
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- olive oil for frying
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
Season chicken with salt, pepper and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for around 35 minutes or until fully cooked. Let cool down before cutting into cubes.
Saute chopped carrots and bell pepper with some olive oil for 7 minutes. Add in almonds and chili flakes, cook for 1 minute.
In a large bowl combine cooked chicken with vegetables and almonds, season with lemon juice, celery salt, Worcestershire sauce and mix in the mayonnaise.
Transfer salad into a baking pan and top with crushed chips.
Bake for 20-25 minutes at 180C/350F.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Side Dishes That Complement Your Hot Chicken Salad Bake
Pairing your Hot Chicken Salad Bake with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the richness of the casserole, balancing the flavors wonderfully. Another great option is steamed green beans with a touch of garlic butter. The simplicity of the green beans will not overpower the main dish but will add a nice, fresh component to your meal.
Beverages to Enjoy with Your Meal
When it comes to beverages, a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, can be an excellent choice. The wine's acidity pairs well with the richness of the dish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a cold glass of iced tea with a splash of lemon can be just as refreshing.
Desserts That Wrap Up the Meal Perfectly
To conclude your meal, opt for a light dessert like a fruit sorbet or a bowl of fresh berries with a dollop of whipped cream. These choices will cleanse your palate without making you feel overly full.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Choosing the Right Chicken
While you can use any cut of chicken, thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor. Baking them ensures they remain tender and flavorful, providing the perfect base for your casserole.
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh vegetables and high-quality mayonnaise can make a significant difference in the final dish. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also offer more nutritional value.
Making It Ahead of Time
One of the best things about this dish is that it can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you're entertaining guests.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative if you're looking for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 180C/350F until warmed through to maintain the dish's texture.
Is This Dish Freezer-Friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include your favourite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, bell peppers, or even corn can add colour and flavour to the dish. Just be sure to chop them into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don't Have Almonds?
If you don't have almonds, you can use other nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunchy texture. For a nut-free version, you might simply omit them altogether; the dish will still be delicious!
How Long Does It Take to Bake?
The Hot Chicken Salad Bake typically takes about 30 to 35 minutes to bake at 180C/350F, or until it is heated through and the top is golden brown. For the best results, check that the internal temperature reaches at least 75C/165F.
Can I Use Leftover Chicken?
Absolutely! This dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken. Just make sure to shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the casserole.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you loved this Hot Chicken Salad Bake, you'll want to try these other chicken casserole recipes:
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