Hot chicken salad casserole

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, grated cheddar cheese, chopped celery, chopped onion, sliced almonds (if using), lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Transfer the chicken salad mixture into a greased casserole dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the chicken salad in the casserole dish. This will create a crispy topping.
5. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

You can customize this casserole by adding other ingredients like diced red bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even a bit of hot sauce for some extra kick. It’s a versatile dish that’s great for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you’re craving a warm and satisfying meal. Enjoy your hot chicken salad casserole!