Creamy Chicken Salad Casserole

This Creamy Chicken Salad Casserole combines tender chicken with crunchy celery, water chestnuts, and slivered almonds all wrapped in a rich, cheesy, and creamy mixture. The crispy potato chip topping adds a perfect contrast, making it a comforting meal for any occasion, especially family dinners or potlucks.

I first made this on a chilly weekend and was surprised how much my family raved about the combination of textures and flavors it quickly became a staple in our rotation.

Ingredients

• Cooked diced chicken: Four cups provide the hearty protein base rotisserie chicken works great for convenience
• Finely chopped celery: Half a cup adds that fresh crunch and subtle bitterness
• Grated onion: One tablespoon brightens the dish and blends smoothly into the creamy sauce
• Mayonnaise: One cup gives richness and creaminess balancing the textures
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: One 10.75-ounce can creates a velvety binding element and extra flavor
• Lemon juice: One tablespoon cuts through richness with a hint of brightness
• Black pepper: Half a teaspoon adds mild spice
• Shredded cheddar cheese: One cup melts throughout adding sharp gooey goodness
• Water chestnuts: One 8-ounce drained and chopped can provide a refreshing crunch
• Slivered almonds: Half a cup brings nuttiness and texture contrast
• Salt: About a quarter to half a teaspoon for seasoning adjust depending on the saltiness of your other ingredients
• Coarsely crushed potato chips: One and a half cups make a crispy golden crust plain or ruffled both work well

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease an 11 by 7-inch casserole dish making sure to coat the sides well to prevent sticking during baking.

Mix Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked diced chicken, finely chopped celery, and grated onion. Add the mayonnaise, condensed cream of chicken soup, lemon juice, black pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped water chestnuts, and slivered almonds. Stir everything thoroughly ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated and coated with the creamy sauce.

Season to Taste:

Give your mixture a taste test and sprinkle in salt carefully, starting with a quarter teaspoon. Keep tasting and add up to half a teaspoon depending on your preference and how salty your chicken and soup are.

Transfer Mixture:

Pour the fully mixed chicken salad into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges so the casserole cooks uniformly.

Add Topping:

Evenly sprinkle the coarsely crushed potato chips over the top of the casserole. The chips will bake into a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Bake:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. The topping should be golden and crispy while the casserole is heated through and bubbling around the edges. Serve warm for the best comfort food experience.

This casserole has been part of many treasured family gatherings and brings everyone together with its comforting flavors and textures.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within three days for best flavor and texture. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the topping crispy. To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use cooked shredded turkey or ham instead of chicken for variety. Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter option but keep in mind it will change the texture slightly. Sour cream can be used instead of cream of chicken soup to add a tangier flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. A side of steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts adds color and nutrients. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon elevates the meal.

This dish is a wonderful balance of creamy and crunchy textures that never fails to impress.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What ingredients create the creamy texture?

The creamy texture comes from a mixture of mayonnaise and condensed cream of chicken soup combined with shredded cheddar cheese.

→ How do the potato chips affect the dish?

Coarsely crushed potato chips form a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts with the creamy interior for enhanced texture.

→ Can I substitute the water chestnuts?

Yes, you can substitute water chestnuts with chopped celery or jicama to maintain the crunchy element.

→ What is the best way to prepare the chicken?

Use cooked, diced chicken such as rotisserie or poached chicken breast for tender, flavorful results.

→ How long should the casserole bake?

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes, until the topping is golden and the dish is warmed through.