How to Make the Best Canned Chicken Salad Recipe

Looking for a quick, delicious, and protein-packed meal? This canned chicken salad recipe is the perfect solution! With just a few simple ingredients like canned chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and red onion, you can whip up a creamy and flavorful salad in minutes. Whether you enjoy it as a chicken salad sandwich, lettuce wrap, or with crackers, this recipe is incredibly versatile.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best canned chicken salad with step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, and easy variations. Let’s get started! 

Why You’ll Love This Canned Chicken Salad Recipe

Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of the best things about this canned chicken salad recipe is that it requires zero cooking. Since the chicken is already cooked and canned, all you need to do is drain, mix, and serve. This makes it an ideal last-minute meal when you’re short on time but still want something tasty and nutritious. With just a bowl and a spoon, you can prepare a delicious salad in under 10 minutes—no stove or oven required!

Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Days

If you’re always on the go, this chicken salad is a great meal prep option. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the fridge for quick meals. It stays fresh for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container, making it perfect for work lunches, school meals, or easy dinners. Simply scoop out a portion whenever you need a filling and satisfying meal.

Versatile: Enjoy as a Sandwich, Wrap, or with Crackers

This canned chicken salad is incredibly versatile, so you can enjoy it in multiple ways:

• Chicken Salad Sandwich – Spread it on toasted bread or a croissant for a classic and satisfying lunch.
• Lettuce Wraps – For a low-carb option, wrap it in crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
• With Crackers or Chips – Serve it as a dip with crackers, tortilla chips, or cucumber slices for a quick snack.
• Stuffed in a Pita or Wrap – Load it into a whole wheat pita or tortilla for a grab-and-go meal.

No matter how you serve it, this easy chicken salad recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that fits any occasion! 

Ingredients for the Best Chicken Salad

Main Ingredients

Using the right base ingredients ensures a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying canned chicken salad.

• Canned Chicken – This pre-cooked and protein-packed option makes meal prep effortless. Ensure you drain it well to prevent excess moisture, and for a finer texture, you can shred it with a fork before mixing.
• Mayonnaise – The key to achieving richness and creaminess in your salad. Opt for real mayo for the best flavor, but you can adjust the amount depending on your preference.
• Celery – Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the soft texture of the chicken and mayo. Finely diced celery also brings a hint of mild peppery flavor.
• Red Onion – Provides a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the diced onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it.

Flavor Enhancers

To make your chicken salad burst with flavor, these ingredients are essential:

• Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth of flavor, making the salad more dynamic. If you prefer a milder option, yellow mustard works well too.
• Lemon Juice – A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the salad, balancing the richness of the mayo while adding a hint of zesty freshness.
• Black Pepper – A simple yet powerful seasoning that enhances all the flavors and provides a slight kick. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.

Optional Additions

Customize your canned chicken salad with these optional ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

• Greek Yogurt – Want a healthier, high-protein alternative to mayo? Swap some (or all) of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy variation.
• Nuts (Almonds, Pecans, or Walnuts) – Love a bit of crunch? Add chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for a nutty, toasty texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy salad.
• Other Extras – Experiment with grapes for sweetness, avocado for creaminess, or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.

These ingredients ensure that your canned chicken salad is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying in every bite! 

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Canned Chicken Salad

Step 1: Drain and Shred the Canned Chicken

The first step in making your canned chicken salad is to properly prepare the chicken. Follow these steps:

1. Open the can of chicken and pour the contents into a colander or strainer.
2. Drain the liquid completely, pressing down on the chicken gently to remove as much moisture as possible.
3. Shred the chicken using a fork or your fingers to break it into smaller, bite-sized pieces. For a finer texture, you can use two forks to pull the chicken apart.
4. Check the texture – If you prefer a chunkier salad, leave some larger pieces. If you want a smoother texture, continue shredding until it’s fully pulled apart.

Step 2: Mix with Mayo, Mustard, and Seasonings

Once the chicken is ready, it’s time to make the creamy base. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Add mayonnaise – Start by adding about 1/2 cup of mayo to the chicken. You can adjust this amount based on how creamy you want your salad.
2. Add Dijon mustard – Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
3. Season the mixture – Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
4. Mix thoroughly – Stir everything together until the chicken is fully coated with the mayo, mustard, and seasonings. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking.

Step 3: Add Crunchy Ingredients Like Celery and Onions

Next, it’s time to add the crunchy, flavorful elements that will make your chicken salad more interesting. Follow these steps:

1. Dice the celery – Take 1-2 stalks of celery and finely dice them into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly they will distribute throughout the salad.
2. Chop the red onion – Finely chop about 2 tablespoons of red onion. If you prefer a milder taste, soak the onion pieces in cold water for 10 minutes before adding.
3. Stir in the crunchy ingredients – Add the chopped celery and red onion to the chicken mixture, and stir until everything is evenly distributed. The celery will add a refreshing crunch, and the onion will bring a sharp, sweet flavor that balances the creaminess of the mayo.
4. Adjust ingredients – If you like more crunch, feel free to add extra celery or even throw in some finely diced carrots.

Step 4: Chill and Serve in Your Preferred Way

Now that your chicken salad is ready, let’s make it even better with some chilling and serving options. Here’s what to do:

1. Refrigerate – Transfer your chicken salad to an airtight container and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. The cold temperature will also make the salad more refreshing.
2. Prepare your serving options – Decide how you’d like to serve your salad:
   • Sandwich – Spread the salad onto your favorite bread, like whole-grain, sourdough, or baguette, for a classic, hearty meal.
   • Lettuce Wrap – For a lighter option, scoop the chicken salad into crisp Romaine or butterhead lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap.
   • With Crackers – Serve the salad as a dip with crispy crackers, tortilla chips, or even cucumber slices for a quick snack.
   • On a Salad – For a filling option, spoon the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens, spinach, or arugula for added freshness.
3. Garnish (optional) – If desired, garnish with extra ingredients like fresh parsley, chopped nuts, or hard-boiled eggs for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Now, your canned chicken salad is ready to serve in the way you love most! Enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness in whichever form you choose.

Best Ways to Serve Canned Chicken Salad

Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich on Toasted Bread

One of the most popular ways to enjoy your canned chicken salad is in a sandwich. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Choose your bread – Start with your favorite type of bread. For a classic sandwich, whole-grain bread or sourdough are excellent choices, but you can also go for baguette or ciabatta for a more rustic feel. Choose something with a good structure to hold the creamy salad.
2. Toast the bread – For extra flavor and texture, toast the bread lightly. This creates a crunchy exterior that holds up well against the creamy chicken salad, preventing the bread from becoming soggy.
3. Spread the salad – Once your bread is toasted, generously spread your chicken salad mixture on one slice of bread. You can add leafy lettuce, sliced tomatoes, or even cheese (like cheddar or Swiss) to enhance the sandwich.
4. Assemble and serve – Place the second slice of toasted bread on top, cut the sandwich into halves or quarters, and serve immediately. You’ll have a delicious, comforting sandwich that combines the richness of the chicken salad with the crunchiness of the toasted bread.

Low-Carb Option: Lettuce Wraps or Cucumber Slices

If you’re looking to reduce carbs or follow a low-carb diet, turning your chicken salad into a lettuce wrap or using cucumber slices is an excellent option. These alternatives are refreshing and healthy while still offering the creamy, flavorful experience you love. Here’s how to serve them:

1. Lettuce wraps – Use large Romaine or Butterhead lettuce leaves to wrap your chicken salad. These varieties are sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing. Simply spoon a generous amount of chicken salad onto the lettuce leaf and fold it into a wrap. You can even top it with a bit of avocado or shredded cheese for added flavor and richness.
2. Cucumber slices – If you want something even lighter, use cucumber slices as “crackers” for your chicken salad. Simply cut a cucumber into thick slices, then spoon a bit of chicken salad on each slice. This adds a refreshing, crisp texture while keeping the meal light.
3. Add toppings – Feel free to garnish your lettuce wraps or cucumber slices with additional vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, avocado, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of flavor.

Served with Crackers or Tortilla Chips for a Snack

If you’re looking for a more casual way to enjoy your chicken salad or simply want to serve it as a snack, pairing it with crackers or tortilla chips is a great option. These crunchy sides complement the creamy texture of the chicken salad and make for a fun, easy snack.

1. Crackers – Choose a variety of savory crackers, such as whole wheat, buttery, or herb-flavored crackers. They provide the perfect balance of crunch and flavor when paired with creamy chicken salad. Simply scoop a spoonful of the chicken salad and place it on top of a cracker.
2. Tortilla chips – For a Tex-Mex twist, serve your chicken salad with tortilla chips. The crispy, salted chips work wonderfully with the creamy chicken mixture. You can even dip the chips into the chicken salad as you would with a dip.
3. Pairing with veggies – If you want to keep it lighter, serve the salad with crunchy veggies like celery sticks, carrot sticks, or bell pepper slices. These provide a fresh contrast to the creamy chicken salad while still keeping the snack healthy.

These options allow you to enjoy your chicken salad in various ways, whether you’re in the mood for a filling sandwich or a lighter, low-carb choice.

Tips and Variations for a Healthier Chicken Salad

Make it Lighter: Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo

If you’re looking to make your canned chicken salad lighter or healthier, swapping out mayo for Greek yogurt is a fantastic choice. Greek yogurt provides the same creamy texture but with added nutritional benefits:

1. Lower in calories – Greek yogurt is typically lower in calories than mayonnaise, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake.
2. Higher in protein – Greek yogurt is rich in protein, which helps keep you feeling full and supports muscle recovery. This makes it an excellent addition if you’re focusing on maintaining or building lean muscle mass.
3. Tangy flavor – The natural tanginess of Greek yogurt adds a fresh flavor to the chicken salad, providing a pleasant contrast to the richness of the chicken. You can experiment with different flavors by choosing plain, low-fat, or non-fat versions to suit your dietary preferences.
4. Consistency – Greek yogurt has a thick and creamy consistency similar to mayo, ensuring that the chicken salad will still have that desirable smooth texture, making it an excellent substitute without compromising on taste.
5. Add-ins – For extra flavor and texture, you can mix in spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the Greek yogurt’s taste.

By making this swap, you’re not only lightening up the salad but also boosting its nutritional profile!

Add More Protein: Mix in Hard-Boiled Eggs or Nuts

To make your canned chicken salad even more filling and protein-packed, consider adding some extra protein sources. This will give the salad a richer taste and make it more satisfying as a meal.

1. Hard-Boiled Eggs – Chopped hard-boiled eggs are a great addition to chicken salad, providing more protein and a creamy texture. Simply chop 2-3 eggs and mix them into your chicken salad. The eggs complement the flavors of the chicken and mayo (or yogurt) while boosting the protein content.
   • Nutritional boost – Hard-boiled eggs are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, making them a great addition for anyone looking to increase their protein intake without adding too many calories.
   • Flavor enhancement – The richness of the egg yolk enhances the overall flavor and provides a smooth, satisfying bite in every mouthful.
2. Nuts – Nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans can add a crunchy texture and additional protein to your chicken salad. Chop up a small handful of nuts and stir them into the mixture for an added dimension of flavor and texture.
   • Crunch factor – The crunchiness of the nuts creates a pleasant contrast to the creamy chicken and mayo/yogurt, adding extra bite to each spoonful.
   • Healthy fats – Nuts are rich in monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health. They also provide essential vitamins like vitamin E and minerals like magnesium, contributing to your overall well-being.
3. Other protein options – You can also mix in small pieces of chicken breast or cottage cheese for even more protein if desired.

With these additions, your chicken salad not only becomes more filling but also packed with nutrition to fuel your day.

Customize the Flavor: Try Herbs Like Parsley or Dill

A quick way to elevate the flavor profile of your canned chicken salad is by adding fresh herbs. Herbs bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and dressing, making each bite more aromatic and flavorful. Here are some ideas to experiment with:

1. Parsley – Adding fresh parsley to your chicken salad provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that enhances the overall taste. Chop up a few sprigs and stir them into the salad.
   • Cleansing flavor – Parsley has a natural cleansing effect on the palate, balancing out the richness of the mayo or yogurt. It also adds a bright, green color to your salad, making it visually appealing.
   • Nutritional benefits – Parsley is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron, adding a nutritional boost to your meal.
2. Dill – For a more distinct flavor, dill is an excellent choice. Its tangy, slightly sweet taste adds a refreshing element to your chicken salad, particularly if you enjoy flavors inspired by classic dishes like chicken salad with pickle relish.
   • Distinctive flavor – Dill pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the mayo or Greek yogurt, giving the salad a unique flavor profile that stands out.
   • Aromatic touch – The aroma of fresh dill is incredibly inviting and adds an extra layer of depth to your salad.
3. Other herb options – You can also experiment with herbs like basil, tarragon, or chives to customize the flavor to your preference. Each herb brings its own unique flavor, allowing you to tailor the salad to match your taste buds.
   • Basil adds a sweet, slightly spicy flavor that complements chicken well.
   • Chives offer a mild onion-like taste, while tarragon has a slightly licorice flavor that pairs well with creamy dressings.

By incorporating herbs, you can easily create a more flavorful and aromatic chicken salad that reflects your personal preferences, making each meal more enjoyable and exciting.

These adjustments make your canned chicken salad more customizable and nutritious, allowing you to enjoy different versions of the dish based on your dietary goals and taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Making a canned chicken salad is quick, simple, and versatile, easily customizable to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you opt for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, add protein with hard-boiled eggs or nuts, or boost flavor with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, it’s a perfect meal for busy days, meal prep, or when you need something tasty with minimal effort.

Enjoy it in a classic sandwich, low-carb lettuce wraps, or as a snack with crackers or tortilla chips. For a quick, nutritious meal with endless possibilities, try this canned chicken salad recipe! And if you’re looking for a delicious side, check out this glorified rice recipe to complete your meal! For more chicken salad ideas, check out chicken salad recipes

FAQs About Canned Chicken Salad

Canned Chicken Salad Recipe

Sarah

This Canned Chicken Salad is a quick, healthy meal perfect for meal prep, light lunches, or a savory snack. Versatile and customizable, enjoy it in a sandwich, wrap, or with crackers for a convenient and delicious bite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 can 12.5 oz canned chicken, drained and shredded
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup celery finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt for a lighter version
• 1/4 cup nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch
• Fresh herbs parsley or dill for flavor

Instructions

 

Drain and Shred the Chicken:

• Open the canned chicken, drain any excess liquid, and shred it into bite-sized pieces using a fork or your hands.

Mix the Base Ingredients:

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until well blended.

Add Seasonings and Veggies:

• Add the finely chopped celery, red onion, black pepper, and salt. Mix until evenly distributed.

Optional Add-ins:

• For a lighter version, mix in Greek yogurt. If desired, add nuts or fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor and crunch.

Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Serve on a sandwich, in a lettuce wrap, or with crackers. Enjoy!

Notes

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 26g

Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.

Keyword Canned Chicken Salad Recipe, Quick Chicken Salad