A classic potluck dish, this casserole uses the same basic elements as chicken salad, but it is baked and just delicious! I like to include the chopped boiled eggs, but those can be omitted if you prefer. Always a favorite!
Hot Chicken Salad Casserole
Called Hot Chicken Salad because it contains many of the typical elements of a cold chicken salad, but it's baked in a casserole form.
Probably one of the Original Church Lady Casserole Recipes from way back, and published in most every southern community and church cookbook, it still finds its way not only at church socials, but reunions, potlucks, as a funeral dish, or at any number of other gatherings.
As always, ingredients do vary a bit among us Southern cooks with this dish, and some folks exclude the boiled eggs, though I think that they are fitting and taste good, so I do use them. You can also use a wide variety of toppings, including some additional shredded cheese, alone or with some soft or panko bread crumbs, cracker crumbs, or even potato chips which were the most traditional.
Some do add the toppings at the beginning of the cooking process. I personally prefer to heat the casserole through first before applying the toppings and then return it to the oven for the topping to lightly brown. Either way works fine.
Remember, the next time that you pick up a rotisserie chicken from the deli, grab two, or the next time that you roast a chicken at home, go ahead and cook two. Set the second chicken aside to cool, and then put up the meat in 2 to 3 cup portions in your freezer. That's what I do!
This is one of those mix and dump casseroles too - simple and super easy!
Cook 3 slices of bacon to crisp, then chop. In a bowl combine the mayonnaise, soup, bacon and ranch dressing mix, if using; blend well. Stir in the cheddar cheese, lemon pepper, thyme and rosemary. Add the chicken, eggs, celery, onion, green onion and almonds; mix. Pretty much looks like good ole chicken salad doesn't it?
Taste and adjust seasonings, adding salt only as needed, then transfer to prepared baking dish. Bake 20 minutes until hot and bubbly and lightly browned.
Remove from oven, add topping, and bake an additional 5 minutes. You can also add additional cheese before topping with crushed crackers, potato chips or bread crumbs.
Check out more of my favorite casseroles on Pinterest!
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