Name: Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked chicken, cubed; 1 cup celery, finely chopped; 1 small red onion, minced; 1 ½ cups mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream; 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tablespoons hot sauce; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups crushed cornflakes; 4 tablespoons butter, melted

The Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that you didn’t know you needed. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively potluck, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Its special allure lies in the harmonious marriage of juicy, tender chicken mingling with the rich, creamy dressing that envelops every morsel of this enticing entrée. As you dive deeper into each spoonful, the tangy spice from the hot sauce emerges, adding just the right amount of kick to awaken your taste buds. Finally, a crown of golden, irresistibly crunchy cornflakes completes the sensory journey, ensuring every mouthful offers a delightful contrast to the creamy base.

For those busy weeknights or when you’re hosting friends over for a casual gathering, this casserole provides both simplicity and a flavorful punch. It’s not only rich and hearty but also wonderfully versatile and can be prepared ahead of time, affording you more leisure moments to enjoy with your loved ones. Plus, with its crowd-pleasing flavors and comforting warmth, it’s incredibly hard to resist going back for seconds. In this blog, we dive into the recipe for this classic casserole, providing you with every detail you need to replicate its heartwarming magic right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole

Simple Ingredients: Utilizes kitchen staples for convenience and ease.
Ultimate Comfort: A warm, creamy dish with a satisfying flavor balance.
Make Ahead: Easy to prepare in advance, perfect for busy evenings.
Versatile: Easily adapted to accommodate dietary preferences or what’s on hand.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delightful process of creating your Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole, ensure your kitchen is prepped for culinary success. Begin by organizing your workspace, clearing off any clutter, and setting out all the ingredients. A 9×13-inch casserole dish will be pivotal, so have it handy to bake your masterpiece. If you have a good-sized mixing bowl, it’ll make combining the ingredients more efficient. As for lining up your arsenal, make sure to have a sharp knife for cubing the cooked chicken and a small bowl ready for mixing your crispy topping.

For the sake of flavor and texture perfection, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prep the ingredients. The trusty oven will ensure the casserole isn’t only warm but also evenly cooked and golden brown on the surface. A sturdy spatula or spoon for mixing and a whisk for your melted butter mixture are also essential tools that’ll help streamline the process and create the best possible outcome. By setting up your kitchen efficiently and with precision, you’ll enhance both the cooking experience and the delicious end result.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken, cubed
1 cup celery, finely chopped
1 small red onion, minced
1 ½ cups mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons hot sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups crushed cornflakes
4 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

Start by gathering a large bowl, where you will mix together your main ingredients. Add the cubed chicken, finely chopped celery, minced onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, hot sauce, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Gently fold the mixture until all components are thoroughly combined and the chicken is well-coated. This step ensures the flavors are distributed evenly, creating a cohesive and flavorful base for the casserole.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prepare for baking. Once your chicken mixture is well-blended, spread it evenly in the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. This will allow the casserole to cook uniformly and gives it an even surface for the topping. Ensuring an even layer at this stage leads to optimal flavor distribution and a well-cooked finish.

Step 3: Create the Crispy Topping

In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with melted butter. Mix these together gently until the cornflakes are evenly coated. Then, sprinkle this buttery mixture evenly over the chicken layer in your casserole dish. The coating will bake to a golden, crunchy consistency, adding a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide your assembled dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30–35 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling, golden brown top that promises crispiness. Once the time is up, take your casserole out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This rest period allows the ingredients to settle, making it easier to serve and giving the flavors a chance to meld beautifully.

Variations

Protein: Swap the chicken for turkey or ham for a delicious twist or to utilize leftovers.
Vegetables: Add in some steamed broccoli or peas to infuse more greenery and nutrients.
Spices: Adjust the level of heat by adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to elevate the flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

For a lower-fat version, opt for low-fat mayonnaise and sour cream without compromising on taste.
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the mixture; this guarantees the casserole is safely reach serving temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Serve alongside fluffy mashed potatoes to round out a robust and hearty meal.

Tips

Crush the cornflakes finely for a more even topping that sticks together effectively during baking.
If you like a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce gradually to your taste preference.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 420 per serving
Protein: 30g per serving
Sodium: 680mg per serving

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I use instead of cornflakes?

If cornflakes are not available, try using crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a crispy alternative.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure the cornflakes and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free options.

Conclusion

Incorporating the Crispy Hot Chicken Salad Casserole into your culinary repertoire is a decision you’ll relish with every bite. This dish, with its crispy top and creamy, flavorful filling, is guaranteed to be a hit at any dining table, boasting both versatility and ease. Encourage your family or friends to gather, indulge, and maybe even participate in concocting their personalized versions. Don’t forget to experiment with variations, add your flair, and embrace the joy of home-cooked comfort food. Share your experiences, favorite tweaks, or even snaps of your creations in the comments below, creating a community woven together by the love of delicious flavors and heartwarming meals. Most importantly, relish the warmth and satisfaction that comes from sharing such a delightful feast with those you cherish.