Description
This Chicken Salad Soufflé Casserole is a comforting and elegant dish that combines tender cooked chicken and celery in a creamy, tangy mayonnaise base, topped with a light and fluffy cheddar cheese soufflé. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Salad Base
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 1½ cups chopped celery
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Soufflé Topping
- 3 large eggs, separated
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium-sized casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make Chicken Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, chopped celery, mayonnaise, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients well until fully incorporated. Then, spread this mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
- Prepare Soufflé Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese to combine. In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form to create volume. Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk and cheese mixture to create a light and airy soufflé topping.
- Assemble: Spoon the soufflé topping gently over the chicken salad base in the casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to cover the surface.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the soufflé topping is golden brown and puffed up, indicating it is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this warm, comforting dish as a delightful main course.
Notes
- Ensure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks for a light and fluffy soufflé topping.
- Use cooked chicken from rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken to save time.
- You can adjust lemon juice and seasoning according to taste preferences.
- Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
