Hot Chicken Salad I
Hot Chicken Salad with Rice, Celery, and Mushrooms
Introduction
Hot Chicken Salad is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. This recipe combines tender chicken, rice, vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
History
Hot Chicken Salad has been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. It is believed to have originated in the southern United States, where it was often served at church potlucks and family gatherings. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among home cooks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup celery
- 0.75 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 tsp chopped onion
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 can undiluted cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup water chestnuts
Topping
- 0.5 stick margarine
- 0.5 cup almonds
- 1 cup crushed corn flakes
How to prepare
- Mix all ingredients and place in a casserole dish.
- In a separate pan, melt margarine and stir in crushed corn flakes and slivered almonds.
- Spoon the mixture over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes in a 350°F (177°C) oven.
Variations
- Add shredded cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Mix in cooked bacon or ham for added flavor.
- Use different types of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for the topping.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the chicken until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for this recipe to save time.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this dish to suit your preferences. Bell peppers, peas, or broccoli would all be delicious additions.
- For a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Hot Chicken Salad can be served on its own as a main dish or paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It is also delicious served over a bed of lettuce for a lighter option.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
Greek yogurt can be used in place of mayonnaise.
- Cashews or walnuts can be used in place of almonds.
- Cream of mushroom soup can be used in place of cream of chicken soup.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the Hot Chicken Salad up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply add the topping before baking.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Hot Chicken Salad in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Hot Chicken Salad pairs well with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. It also goes well with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover Hot Chicken Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 320
Carbohydrates
Total Carbohydrates: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Fats
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
Protein: 20g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 6%
Vitamin C: 8%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 10%
Alergens
Contains: Tree nuts (almonds)
Summary
This Hot Chicken Salad recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.
Summary
Hot Chicken Salad is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. With a creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a crunchy topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Hot Chicken Salad. It was a crisp autumn day, with the leaves falling gently to the ground and a chill in the air. I was visiting my dear friend Eleanor, who was known for her incredible cooking skills. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of roasted chicken and spices filled the air.
Eleanor greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. She knew that I loved trying new recipes and was always eager to learn from her. "I have something special to show you today," she said, beckoning me over to the kitchen table. On the table was a worn and stained recipe card, with the words "Hot Chicken Salad I" scrawled across the top in elegant script. My heart raced with anticipation as Eleanor began to explain the ingredients and steps required to make this delicious dish.
As she spoke, I felt like I was being transported to a different world, where the scent of spices and the sizzle of cooking filled my senses. Eleanor's passion for cooking was contagious, and I couldn't wait to try my hand at making this hot chicken salad. She patiently guided me through the recipe, showing me how to season the chicken, mix the ingredients together, and bake it to perfection.
After a few hours of preparation and cooking, the hot chicken salad was finally ready to be served. The aroma that wafted from the oven was intoxicating, and I could hardly wait to dig in. Eleanor plated the salad with care, garnishing it with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavor and warmth. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and creamy sauce was a symphony of taste that danced on my tongue.
From that moment on, Hot Chicken Salad I became a staple in my recipe repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, delighting everyone with its unique and delicious flavors. Each time I cooked the dish, I thought of Eleanor and the joy she had brought into my life with her wonderful recipes.
Over the years, I have shared Hot Chicken Salad I with friends and family, passing down the recipe from generation to generation. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the magic of that crisp autumn day in Eleanor's kitchen, where a simple recipe brought me so much joy and inspiration.
Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the delicious scents of cooking and the warmth of a stove, I am grateful for the gift of cooking and the joy it brings to my life. And I know that as long as I have recipes like Hot Chicken Salad I in my arsenal, I will always be able to share that joy with others.
Categories
| Almond Recipes | Canned Chicken Soup Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Celery Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Cornflake Crumb Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Mushroom Recipes | Rice Recipes | Salad Recipes | Water Chestnut Recipes |