Liberian Hot Chicken Salad

Liberian Hot Chicken Salad Recipe with Swiss Cheese and Potato Chips

Region / culture: Liberia, Switzerland | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Liberian Hot Chicken Salad is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing topped with melted cheese and crispy potato chips. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Liberian Hot Chicken Salad is a popular dish in Liberia, a country in West Africa. It is a fusion of African and American flavors, combining traditional African ingredients with Western cooking techniques. The dish is often served at special occasions and gatherings, and is loved for its unique and bold flavors.

Ingredients

2.5 cups of chopped, cooked chicken meat
2 cups of chopped celery
0.5 cup of chopped salted almonds
0.25 cup of chopped green bell pepper
2 tbsp of minced onion
2 tbsp of chopped pimento peppers
0.75 tsp of salt
2 tbsp of lemon juice
0.5 cup of mayonnaise
0.33 cup of shredded swiss cheese
3 cups of crushed potato chips

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a bowl, combine the chicken, celery, almonds, bell pepper, onion, pimento, salt, lemon juice, and mayonnaise.
Mix the ingredients well and pour the mixture into a 1.5 qt (1.42 liter) casserole dish.
Sprinkle grated cheese and crushed potato chips on top.
Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with turkey or tuna for a different flavor.
Add raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop the ingredients finely to ensure that each bite is packed with flavor.

- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for this recipe to save time.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or nuts.

- Make sure to let the salad cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Liberian Hot Chicken Salad can be served as a main dish with a side of rice or bread, or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or fresh fruit.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the chicken until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

- Allow the salad to cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any cooked meat of your choice, such as turkey, tuna, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

- Feel free to swap out the almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Liberian Hot Chicken Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Liberian Hot Chicken Salad in individual ramekins or small bowls for a stylish presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Liberian Hot Chicken Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Liberian Hot Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 23g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 25g

- Saturated Fat: 6g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 10%

- Iron: 8%

Alergens

Contains nuts (almonds)

- Contains dairy (cheese)

Summary

Liberian Hot Chicken Salad is a balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Liberian Hot Chicken Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors and creamy dressing, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was a young woman eager to learn new recipes and expand my culinary skills. I had always been passionate about cooking, and I loved experimenting in the kitchen to create delicious dishes for my family and friends.

One day, I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my mother. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Liberian Hot Chicken Salad caught my eye. I had never heard of this dish before, but the combination of flavors and ingredients intrigued me. I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did.

The recipe called for simple ingredients that were easy to find at my local market. I gathered some boneless, skinless chicken breasts, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. The recipe also called for a special hot pepper sauce that was traditional in Liberian cuisine. I had never used this sauce before, but I was excited to try something new.

I followed the recipe carefully, marinating the chicken in the hot pepper sauce and spices before grilling it to perfection. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish. I combined the grilled chicken with the sautéed vegetables and tossed it all together with a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

When I took my first bite of the Liberian Hot Chicken Salad, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The spicy heat of the hot pepper sauce was balanced perfectly by the sweetness of the bell peppers and onions. The tender chicken melted in my mouth, and the vinaigrette dressing tied everything together beautifully.

I couldn't believe how delicious this dish was, and I knew that it would become a staple in my recipe repertoire. I shared the recipe with my friends and family, who all raved about it and begged me to make it again. From that day on, the Liberian Hot Chicken Salad became a beloved dish in my household.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add extra garlic for a more robust flavor, or I swap out the bell peppers for spicy jalapeños for an extra kick. No matter how I make it, the Liberian Hot Chicken Salad never fails to impress.

I have fond memories of cooking this dish for special occasions, like family gatherings and holiday dinners. It always brings smiles to the faces of those who taste it, and I love watching their eyes light up with delight. The recipe has become a symbol of my love for cooking and sharing delicious food with the people I care about.

As I grow older, I cherish the memories of discovering the Liberian Hot Chicken Salad recipe and the joy it has brought me over the years. Cooking has always been a source of comfort and creativity for me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue exploring new recipes and flavors. The Liberian Hot Chicken Salad will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together.