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 Hot Chicken Salad?

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 3 c. diced chicken (don't salt chicken while cooking), 2 c. celery, chopped fine, 1 (4 oz.) can mushroom pieces, drained, 18 oz. can water chestnuts, drained and sliced, and more.

Is Hot Chicken Salad suitable as salads?

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

How do I store leftover 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.

Hot Chicken Salad Recipe

Name: Hot Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 c. diced chicken (don't salt chicken while cooking); 2 c. celery, chopped fine; 1 (4 oz.) can mushroom pieces, drained; 18 oz. can water chestnuts, drained and sliced; 1/2 c. slivered almonds; 1 can cream of celery soup; 2 Tbsp. minced onion; 1/2 c. mayonnaise; 1 (8 oz.) jar Cheez Whiz; 1 Tbsp. salt; 1/4 tsp. pepper; 1 can French fried onion rings

Fresh, crisp and full of flavor — this Hot Chicken Salad is a must-try. Made with chicken, celery, mushroom and water chestnuts. Easy step-by-step instr…

This Hot Chicken Salad relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as celery, chopped fine, slivered almonds, cream of celery soup and minced onion. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 758 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

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

Saved locally in your browser — visible only to you.

Hot Chicken Salad

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions