Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Amish Hot Chicken Salad! Imagine a dish that perfectly blends creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors in one delightful bite. This isn't just another chicken salad - it's a warm, comforting masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Prepare to unlock a recipe that brings together traditional Amish cooking wisdom with a modern twist that'll make your taste buds dance with joy!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, mayonnaise, chopped celery, halved grapes, slivered almonds, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences. Gently fold the ingredients to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Transfer the chicken salad mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to ensure uniform cooking.
- Optional: For added crunch, sprinkle additional slivered almonds on top of the chicken salad mixture.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the hot chicken salad rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the temperature to stabilize.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired. Can be accompanied by toast, crackers, or a light green salad.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Use freshly cooked, high-quality shredded chicken for the best flavor and texture. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a time-saving option.
- Keep Your Grapes Fresh: Use crisp, sweet grapes and cut them precisely in half to distribute their burst of flavor evenly throughout the salad.
- Toasting Tip: For extra flavor, lightly toast the slivered almonds in a dry pan before adding them to the mixture to enhance their nutty profile.
- Seasoning Secret: Don't be shy with salt and pepper - they're crucial for bringing out the depth of flavors in this dish.
- Baking Precision: Watch the chicken salad closely in the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. A golden top is what you're aiming for.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and make serving easier.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for maximum convenience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
