There’s nothing quite like a classic chicken salad—creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. This easy canned chicken salad recipe is perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or meal prep favorite. Using canned chicken breast, it comes together in minutes without the need for cooking, making it a go-to for busy days.
What makes this recipe special? It’s the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, thanks to a blend of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, crisp celery, and red onion. A touch of Dijon mustard and lemon juice enhances the flavor, while fresh herbs bring a burst of freshness. Serve it on whole wheat bread, lettuce wraps, or crackers for a versatile meal that never disappoints.
Whether you need a protein-packed lunch or a crowd-pleasing sandwich filling, this homemade chicken salad delivers every time. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Canned Chicken Salad Recipe
This easy canned chicken salad is more than just a quick meal—it’s a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re looking for a no-cook lunch, a light dinner, or a convenient meal prep option, this recipe delivers in every way.
Key Benefits of This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: No need to cook or shred chicken—just open a can, mix, and enjoy.
- Creamy & Crunchy: A perfect balance of textures, thanks to mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, crisp celery, and red onion.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—add grapes for sweetness, nuts for crunch, or a dash of hot sauce for spice.
- High-Protein & Satisfying: Canned chicken breast is a lean, protein-rich ingredient that keeps you full longer.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick, ready-to-go meal.
This homemade chicken salad is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when served on whole wheat bread, crackers, or fresh lettuce wraps. Whether you’re making a quick sandwich or a nutritious snack, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This canned chicken salad recipe is made with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, creating the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and zesty flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Canned chicken breast (12.5 oz) – Drained and flaked for a tender texture.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup) – Adds creaminess and binds the ingredients together.
- Greek yogurt (¼ cup) – A lighter, protein-packed alternative that balances richness.
- Celery (½ cup, finely chopped) – Provides a refreshing crunch.
- Red onion (¼ cup, finely diced) – Adds a mild bite and extra flavor.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the depth of flavor with a slight tang.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon) – Brightens up the salad with a hint of acidity.
- Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning and balance.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Grapes (½ cup, halved) – Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
- Chopped walnuts or almonds (¼ cup) – Provides extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Fresh dill or parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped) – Elevates freshness.
- Hard-boiled egg (1, chopped) – Makes the salad heartier.
- A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper – Adds a subtle kick for spice lovers.
This easy chicken salad recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to mix and match flavors to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer it classic, sweet, or spicy, these ingredients ensure a delicious and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this canned chicken salad recipe is quick and effortless, coming together in just a few minutes. Follow these simple steps for the best results:
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Open the canned chicken and drain it well to remove excess liquid.
- Use a fork to flake the chicken into smaller pieces for a more even texture. This helps the salad hold together better and ensures every bite is flavorful.
2. Chop the Vegetables and Add-Ins
- Finely dice the celery and red onion to add crunch without overpowering the salad.
- If using grapes, nuts, or fresh herbs, chop them into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
3. Mix the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
- Whisk until smooth and well blended. The combination of mayo and yogurt provides a creamy base with a light tangy finish.
4. Combine Everything
- Add the flaked chicken, chopped vegetables, and any extra ingredients you’re using into the bowl.
- Stir gently until everything is evenly coated in the dressing. Avoid overmixing to maintain a satisfying texture.
5. Season and Adjust
- Taste the salad and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- If you prefer a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for an extra kick.
6. Chill Before Serving
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the chicken salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
This quick and easy chicken salad is now ready to serve! Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich, lettuce wrap, or on its own, it’s a versatile dish perfect for any occasion.
Pro Tips and Variations
This canned chicken salad recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize flavors and textures to your preference. Here are some expert tips and creative variations to make it even better:
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Salad
- Drain Well for the Perfect Texture – Always drain the canned chicken thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which can make the salad too watery.
- Flake the Chicken for Even Distribution – Use a fork to break the chicken into smaller pieces, ensuring every bite is well-coated with dressing.
- Let It Chill – Allowing the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious.
- Balance the Creaminess – If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy, protein-rich alternative.
Easy Ingredient Swaps & Flavor Variations
- Dressing Variations – Swap mayo for mashed avocado for a healthier, creamy base or add a touch of honey and apple cider vinegar for a sweet-tangy twist.
- Crunchy Additions – Try chopped almonds, pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
- Fresh & Fruity Enhancements – Mix in halved grapes, diced apples, or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Herbaceous Boost – Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives elevate the flavor with a vibrant, aromatic touch.
By experimenting with different flavors and textures, you can make this canned chicken salad uniquely yours while keeping it easy, delicious, and satisfying.
If you enjoy this canned chicken salad recipe, you might also love exploring other delicious and easy-to-make dishes. Try our Elote Pasta Salad, a creamy, zesty twist on classic Mexican street corn, or our Baked Chicken Cutlets, a crispy and flavorful protein-packed meal. For a fresh and satisfying option, our Chicken Pita Recipe combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, making it a perfect choice for a quick and wholesome meal. Each recipe is simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
This canned chicken salad recipe is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or even as a party appetizer. Whether you prefer it as a classic sandwich filling or a low-carb option, there’s a serving style for everyone.
Classic Ways to Serve Chicken Salad
- Chicken Salad Sandwich – Scoop the salad onto toasted bread, a croissant, or a wrap for a satisfying meal. Add lettuce, tomato, and cheese for extra flavor.
- Lettuce Wraps – For a low-carb alternative, serve the chicken salad in crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves. This keeps the meal light while adding a refreshing crunch.
- On Crackers or Toasted Baguette Slices – Perfect for a snack or appetizer, spread the salad over whole-grain crackers or crostini for a crunchy, flavorful bite.
- Stuffed in Avocado or Tomato – Hollow out an avocado or a large tomato and fill it with chicken salad for a nutritious, visually appealing dish.
- As a Salad Topper – Serve the chicken salad over mixed greens with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a protein-packed, refreshing meal.
Pairing Ideas
- Soups – A bowl of tomato soup, butternut squash soup, or classic chicken noodle soup complements this salad beautifully.
- Side Dishes – Serve with coleslaw, cucumber salad, or a light quinoa dish for a well-rounded meal.
- Refreshing Beverages – Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or a light white wine to enhance the flavors.
No matter how you serve it, this easy chicken salad recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy it fresh or store it in the fridge for a quick, hassle-free meal option throughout the week.
Conclusion
This canned chicken salad recipe proves that simple ingredients can create a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe is a must-try.
The combination of creamy mayonnaise, crunchy celery, and tender chicken delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Plus, with so many variations—such as using Greek yogurt for a lighter twist or adding nuts and dried fruit for extra depth—you can customize it to suit your taste.
Not only is this easy chicken salad recipe delicious, but it’s also a fantastic source of lean protein and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Try it as a sandwich, wrap, salad topper, or even stuffed in an avocado for a fresh, low-carb option.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to whip up a batch and enjoy! If you love simple and flavorful meals, be sure to check out more of our quick and delicious chicken recipes, including our Ninja Foodi chicken recipes for even more mealtime inspiration.
Chicken is a lean protein packed with essential amino acids, vitamins B6 and niacin, supporting muscle health and metabolism. For a detailed breakdown, visit How Many Calories in Chicken.
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Canned Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Canned chicken breast 12.5 oz – Drained and flaked for a tender texture.
- Mayonnaise ¼ cup – Adds creaminess and binds the ingredients together.
- Greek yogurt ¼ cup – A lighter, protein-packed alternative that balances richness.
- Celery ½ cup, finely chopped – Provides a refreshing crunch.
- Red onion ¼ cup, finely diced – Adds a mild bite and extra flavor.
- Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon – Enhances the depth of flavor with a slight tang.
- Lemon juice 1 tablespoon – Brightens up the salad with a hint of acidity.
- Salt & black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and balance.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Grapes ½ cup, halved – Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
- Chopped walnuts or almonds ¼ cup – Provides extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Fresh dill or parsley 1 tablespoon, chopped – Elevates freshness.
- Hard-boiled egg 1, chopped – Makes the salad heartier.
- A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper – Adds a subtle kick for spice lovers.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Open the canned chicken and drain it well to remove excess liquid.
- Use a fork to flake the chicken into smaller pieces for a more even texture. This helps the salad hold together better and ensures every bite is flavorful.
Chop the Vegetables and Add-Ins
- Finely dice the celery and red onion to add crunch without overpowering the salad.
- If using grapes, nuts, or fresh herbs, chop them into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
Mix the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
- Whisk until smooth and well blended. The combination of mayo and yogurt provides a creamy base with a light tangy finish.
Combine Everything
- Add the flaked chicken, chopped vegetables, and any extra ingredients you’re using into the bowl.
- Stir gently until everything is evenly coated in the dressing. Avoid overmixing to maintain a satisfying texture.
Season and Adjust
- Taste the salad and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- If you prefer a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Chill Before Serving
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the chicken salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Notes
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: 20g
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
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