Why You’ll Love this Hot Chicken Salad Recipe
You’re going to love this Hot Chicken Salad recipe for its perfect blend of flavors and textures.
The combination of tender chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying dish that warms you up from the inside out. I can’t get enough of the savory notes from sautéed onions and celery, enhancing every bite.
Plus, the crispy topping of Ritz crackers adds an irresistible crunch. It’s easy to make and perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Once you try this dish, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients of Hot Chicken Salad
When it comes to whipping up a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, this Hot Chicken Salad recipe has got you covered. It’s loaded with delicious ingredients that come together to create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
So, let’s jump into what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking. Trust me, the flavors in this dish will have you coming back for seconds—if not thirds!
Here’s what you’ll need for the Hot Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups diced chicken
- 1 (8-ounce) can sliced water chestnuts
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 3/4 cup diced onion
- 3/4 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 4 ounces Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 sleeve)
- 4 tablespoons butter
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit. You can use leftover chicken from a previous meal or even a store-bought rotisserie chicken—no shame in that game.
The water chestnuts add a delightful crunch, while the creamy mushroom soup and mayonnaise bring everything together, making it velvety and luscious.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you could switch things up and use a different type of nut instead of almonds or even toss in some veggies you have on hand. This recipe is pretty flexible, so don’t be afraid to make it your own.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrition while keeping things delicious. Now, are you ready to get cooking?
How to Make Hot Chicken Salad
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients lined up for this Hot Chicken Salad, let’s plunge into how to whip it all together. First things first, grab a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Toss in 3/4 cup diced onion and 3/4 cup diced celery. Sauté them until they’re tender, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The aroma of sizzling onions and celery is like a siren call that will have everyone wandering into the kitchen, trust me.
Once your veggies are nicely softened and fragrant, it’s time to bring everything else into the mix. In a large oven-safe bowl, combine your sautéed veggies with 2 cups diced chicken, 1 (8-ounce) can of sliced water chestnuts, 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 cup cooked white rice, 1/2 cup sliced almonds, and 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup.
Stir it all together until everything is well-coated and combined—feel free to use your hands if that’s how you roll, just make sure they’re clean. It’s like giving your ingredients a big, cozy hug.
Now, let’s get this beauty ready for the oven. Spread the mixture evenly in the bowl and then sprinkle 4 ounces of crushed Ritz crackers over the top. This is the part where things start to get real crispy and delicious.
Finally, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it all over the cracker topping. Now, you’re ready to bake it in a preheated oven at 375 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and when the top is golden brown and bubbly, you’ll know it’s time to indulge.
Serve it up with your favorite crackers—Club, anyone?—and enjoy a hearty dish that feels like home.
Hot Chicken Salad Substitutions & Variations
There are countless ways to customize your Hot Chicken Salad, making it a versatile dish that can cater to different tastes or dietary needs.
I often swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken or even turkey! If you’re a vegetarian, try chickpeas instead of chicken.
For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. I love tossing in some fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.
And don’t forget, you can easily replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or even a homemade version!
What to Serve with Hot Chicken Salad
After customizing your Hot Chicken Salad to suit your tastes, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it.
I love pairing it with a simple green salad for vitality and crunch. A side of buttery garlic bread or crusty rolls complements the rich flavors perfectly.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it with some roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. For a lighter option, a fruit salad can add a rejuvenating contrast.
Finally, don’t forget to have some extra crackers on the side, as they’re perfect for scooping up that delicious hot chicken mixture!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Hot Chicken Salad, keep in mind a few additional tips to enhance your dish.
First, feel free to swap in leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you like a bit of spice, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
For a creamier texture, consider incorporating a bit of sour cream. I often use a mix of different nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs like dill or parsley to brighten the flavors. Trust me, these tweaks can make a delicious difference! Enjoy your cooking!