How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad?

You need 15 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, 2 bay leaves, 4 cups diced celery, 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted, and more.

Is Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad suitable as salads?

Yes, Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad falls under the Salads category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad?

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best freshness. Best served cold — no reheating needed.

Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad Recipe

Name: Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 bay leaves; 4 cups diced celery; 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted; 2 cups mayonnaise; 2 cups sour cream; 2 cans (8 ounces each) water chestnuts, drained; 1 can (8 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained; 1 cup slivered almonds; 2 tablespoons chopped onion; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cans (2.8 ounces each) french-fried onions

Fresh, crisp and full of flavor — this Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad is a must-try. Made with chicken breasts, bay leaves, celery and condensed crea…

This Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as bay leaves, diced celery, mayonnaise and sour cream. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 2167 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It works as a light main on its own or as a starter alongside crusty bread, and it's just as good for a cozy night in as it is for feeding a crowd. Leftovers keep well, so it's a smart choice for meal prep too.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 Salads

2167

kcal

Calories

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.
Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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