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A creamy canned chicken salad with celery, red onions, and parsley, served on lettuce, toast, and a croissant, with a glass of lemonade in the background.

Canned Chicken Salad

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Try this easy canned chicken salad recipe—creamy, crunchy, and ready in 10 minutes! A perfect quick meal for lunch or dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 250 kcal

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

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: ~250
  • Protein: 20g
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
 
Keyword Canned chicken salad, easy chicken salad, healthy chicken salad