A Taste of Tradition: Great Grandma’s Hot Chicken Salad Recipe
: Embark on a culinary journey through time with Great Grandma’s Hot Chicken Salad – a cherished recipe passed down through generations, filled with warmth, nostalgia, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked goodness. This classic dish, a testament to the enduring nature of family recipes, blends tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a delightful crunch to create a symphony of flavors. Join us as we unravel the story behind this beloved recipe and guide you through the steps to recreate a piece of culinary history in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup slivered almonds
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed potato chips
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the Chicken Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped celery, slivered almonds, mayonnaise, grated cheddar cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix crushed potato chips and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread the chicken salad mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the potato chip and Parmesan mixture evenly over the chicken salad.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes:
- Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Experiment with different types of potato chips for varied textures and flavors.
Variations:
- Fruit Infusion: Add a cup of diced apples or grapes for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Herb Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs such as dill or chives for an added layer of flavor.
- Creamy Upgrade: Mix in a half cup of sour cream for an extra creamy and rich chicken salad.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Great Grandma’s Hot Chicken Salad over a bed of fresh lettuce or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Additional Tips for Perfection:
- Maintaining Crunch: Add the potato chip and Parmesan topping just before baking to ensure a satisfying crunch.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the chicken salad mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. Add the topping and bake just before serving.
- Personalize with Veggies: Customize the dish by incorporating your favorite vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or water chestnuts.
Keto Versions:
- Almond Flour Topping: Replace the potato chips with a mixture of crushed almond flour crackers for a keto-friendly alternative.
- Avocado Mayo: Opt for avocado mayo instead of traditional mayonnaise for a keto-approved dressing.
- Cauliflower Addition: Introduce finely chopped cauliflower to the chicken salad for added bulk without the extra carbs.
Low-Carb Variations:
- Pork Rind Crunch: Swap potato chips for crushed pork rinds to maintain the crunchy texture while reducing carbs.
- Cheese Crisp Topping: Create a low-carb topping using shredded mozzarella and parmesan baked until golden and crispy.
- Vegetable Medley: Increase the vegetable content by adding more celery, bell peppers, and other low-carb options.
In conclusion, Great Grandma’s Hot Chicken Salad is more than a recipe; it’s a culinary heirloom that connects us to the past and invites us to create lasting memories in the present. Whether you follow the classic version, introduce modern twists, or adapt to keto and low-carb lifestyles, the heart of this dish remains the same. So, dive into the warmth of tradition, savor the flavors of heritage, and let Great Grandma’s Hot Chicken Salad become a cherished part of your family’s culinary legacy.
