Crispy Chicken Salad Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup potato chips, slightly crushed
- 1 1/4 cups mayonnaise
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon dry ranch mix
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preparation:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven reaches the correct temperature for baking your casserole.
- Lightly grease a square baking dish with butter or a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, grated sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped celery, and crumbled cooked bacon. These ingredients form the hearty base of your casserole.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, dry ranch mix, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. This mixture will create a creamy and flavorful dressing. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Combine:
- Pour the mayonnaise dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance in every bite of the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the chicken mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the slightly crushed potato chips evenly over the top of the chicken mixture. The potato chips will add a delightful crunch and a touch of saltiness to the finished dish.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese has melted beautifully. The top should be golden brown and crispy from the potato chips.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the casserole easier to serve.
This dish is a wonderful blend of creamy, crunchy textures and savory flavors, making it a comforting meal for any day of the week. Enjoy your Crispy Chicken Salad Casserole hot, paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
