There are SO many ways to make a delicious, homemade chicken salad, but this canned chicken salad recipe is the one I always come back to. It’s creamy, flavorful, and unbelievably easy to throw together in minutes. Using canned chicken makes it extra convenient—no cooking or chopping required—while fresh ingredients like crunchy celery, tangy mayo, and a squeeze of lemon juice bring it to life.
The best part? This recipe is completely customizable! Whether you like it classic, packed with extra crunch, or made lighter with Greek yogurt, I’ll show you how to make the perfect chicken salad every time. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and ideal for sandwiches, crackers, and lettuce wraps. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients Needed for Canned Chicken Salad
The beauty of canned chicken salad? You can keep it simple or jazz it up with all the extras your heart desires. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
The Essentials (AKA: The Must-Haves)
- Canned chicken – The star of the show! Drained and fluffed for the best texture.
- Mayonnaise – Classic, creamy goodness. (Or swap it out for a healthier alternative—more on that below!)
- Celery – For that satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Red onion – A little zing to keep things interesting.
- Lemon juice – A fresh squeeze to brighten up the flavours.
- Salt & pepper – Because no great dish is complete without them.
Optional Mix-Ins (AKA: The Fun Stuff!)
- Chopped nuts – Walnuts or almonds for a little extra crunch.
- Diced apples or grapes – Sweet meets savoury = perfection.
- Fresh herbs – Parsley, dill, or chives for a fresh twist.
- A dash of Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle kick.
Lighter Swaps (Because We Like Options!)
- Greek yogurt – Tangy, protein-packed, and just as creamy as mayo.
- Avocado – Smash it up for a creamy, heart-healthy alternative.
- Cottage cheese – Sounds weird, but trust me—it works!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Canned Chicken Salad Recipe
Alright, let’s get down to business—because the only thing standing between you and a ridiculously good chicken salad is a few simple steps. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Step 1: Prepping the Canned Chicken
🔹 Should canned chicken be rinsed?
Short answer? Not really. But if you’re sensitive to the slightly salty, canned taste, a quick rinse under cold water won’t hurt. Just make sure to drain it well so your salad doesn’t turn into a soggy mess.
🔹 Best practices for draining and prepping:
- Open the can and drain out the liquid completely. A quick press with a fork helps!
- Fluff the chicken with a fork to break up any big chunks—no one wants a giant lump of chicken in their bite.
- If your chicken looks a little too “wet,” pat it dry with a paper towel. (Yes, we’re fancy like that.)
Step 2: Mixing the Salad
- In a mixing bowl, toss in your canned chicken, mayo (or Greek yogurt!), crunchy celery, zesty red onion, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Add salt, pepper, and any optional mix-ins like mustard, nuts, or fruit
- Stir it up like you mean it! You want everything well combined but not totally mashed. The goal? Creamy but with texture.
- Taste test. Need more salt? A little extra crunch? Maybe a splash more lemon? This is your moment to make it perfect!
Step 3: Serving It Up Like a Pro
- Stuffed Avocados – Next-level fancy. Just scoop out a little of the avocado, fill it with chicken salad, and boom—gourmet vibes.
- The Classic Sandwich – Pile it high on toasted bread with crisp lettuce and tomato. Simple, yet undefeated.
- Lettuce Wraps – All the flavor, none of the carbs. Romaine or butter lettuce works best!
- Crackers or Pita Chips – Because who doesn’t love a good snackable situation?
Storage & Shelf Life for Canned Chicken Breast Salad
So, you made an amazing batch of chicken salad (nice job!), but now you’re wondering how long it’ll last—or if you can stash some away for later. Let’s talk storage!
How Long Does Canned Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
Freshly made chicken salad is best when stored properly in the fridge within the first 3 to 4 days. After that, it starts to lose its magic—think watery texture and questionable smells, which are not what we’re going for. Don’t take chances if it looks or smells off—toss it!
Best Storage Containers to Use
Not all containers are created equal! For the freshest, longest-lasting chicken salad, go for:
- Airtight containers – The tighter the seal, the longer your salad stays fresh.
- Glass over plastic – Glass containers help keep flavours crisp and won’t absorb any lingering smells.
- Single-serving containers – If you love meal prepping, portioning it into smaller containers makes for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Can You Freeze Chicken Salad?
Technically, yes—but should you? That’s another story. Freezing chicken salad is iffy because mayo (Greek yogurt) doesn’t hold up well in the freezer. It tends to separate and become a sad, watery mess when thawed. If you must freeze it, try this trick:
- Freeze the chicken and mix up a fresh batch of the dressing when you’re ready to eat. This way, you get the convenience of meal prep without sacrificing texture.
Canned Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans 10 oz each canned chicken, drained and fluffed
- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- ½ cup celery finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion finely diced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup chopped nuts,
- ¼ cup diced apples or grapes,
- fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives)
Instructions
- First things first—let’s get that chicken ready. Open the can, drain it well, and press out any extra liquid with a fork. No one wants a watery chicken salad. If your chicken comes out in big chunks, fluff it up with a fork until you’ve got bite-sized, shredded pieces. Some people like to rinse canned chicken to tone down the canned taste, and while it’s not required, if you do, make sure to drain it thoroughly afterward. We’re making chicken salad, not chicken soup.
- Now, it’s time for the magic. Add your shredded chicken to a bowl, then mix in your mayo (or Greek yogurt if you’re going for a lighter version), crunchy celery, red onion, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Add salt, pepper, and any optional mix-ins like mustard, nuts, or fruit.
- Stir everything together just until it’s well combined—you want a creamy texture but still a little bit of structure. Overmixing turns it into a mushy mess, and we’re not about that life. Take a quick taste. Does it need a little more salt? Maybe a touch of Dijon for an extra kick? Adjust the flavors until it’s just right.
- Now comes the best part—eating! Go classic and pile it high between two slices of toasted bread with crisp lettuce and tomato. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, scoop it into lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy wrap. Want something snackable? Serve it with crackers or pita chips for the ultimate quick bite. And if you’re feeling a little fancy, hollow out an avocado and stuff it with chicken salad for a creamy, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a healthier option, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Avoid freezing, as the mayo can separate and affect texture.
- Great for meal prep—portion into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches!
If you enjoy this recipe, please leave a rating and a comment below! We’d appreciate any tips or photos of your results. Thank you for being part of our community! 🙂
Frequently Asked Questions about Canned Chicken Salad Recipe
How do you make canned chicken taste better?
To enhance the flavour of canned chicken, try adding seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs such as thyme or rosemary. A simple chicken salad recipe with mayonnaise or a light vinaigrette can help balance the texture and flavour. Tossing vegetables or fruits like celery, apples, or grapes will complement the taste.
Is canned chicken salad healthy?
A canned chicken salad recipe can be healthy depending on the ingredients used. Opting for a healthy canned chicken salad recipe with fresh vegetables, light dressing, and whole-grain bread for a chicken salad sandwich can make it a nutritious choice. Avoiding excess mayonnaise and adding healthy fats, like avocado, will boost the meal’s health benefits.
Are you supposed to rinse canned chicken?
Yes, it’s recommended to rinse canned chicken to remove excess sodium and preservatives. After rinsing, drain it thoroughly before adding it to a canned chicken salad recipe with mayonnaise or other ingredients. This simple step helps make the canned chicken healthier and more flavorful for your dishes.
How to use up canned chicken?
Canned chicken is versatile and can be used in various dishes, such as a simple chicken salad recipe mixed with pasta or as a wrap filling. It can also be incorporated into a satisfying meal of casseroles, tacos, or a quick chicken salad sandwich. This makes it a perfect ingredient to keep on hand for busy days.
Is canned chicken healthy?
Canned chicken can be a healthy option when chosen wisely, particularly when looking for a low-fat protein source. Selecting a canned chicken salad recipe that uses less mayonnaise or other creamy dressings is important. For a healthier meal, pair it with fresh vegetables and whole grains.
Does canned chicken need to be cooked?
Canned chicken is already cooked and can be eaten directly from the can, making it convenient for quick meals. For recipes like a chicken salad sandwich or a healthy canned chicken salad recipe, you can use it without additional cooking. However, you can also heat it if you prefer a warm dish.
Is it OK to eat a chicken salad every day?
Eating chicken salad daily can be part of a balanced diet, such as using a healthy canned chicken salad recipe. Incorporating a variety of vegetables and lean protein will ensure the meal is nutritious. Be mindful of portion sizes and the ingredients used, especially with creamy dressings.
What are the main ingredients in chicken salad?
The basic ingredients of a chicken salad recipe typically include chicken, mayonnaise, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and mustard. Additional ingredients like celery, onions, grapes, or nuts can be added for extra flavour and texture. A simple chicken salad recipe can be adapted to fit personal preferences or dietary needs.
Can you eat canned chicken by itself?
Canned chicken can be eaten as a quick snack or added to salads, wraps, or sandwiches. It works well in a healthy canned chicken salad recipe or as a topping for crackers. You can also enjoy it with some seasoning or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavour.
What liquid is in canned chicken?
Canned chicken is typically packed in either water, broth, or juices. The liquid helps keep the chicken moist and tender. When preparing dishes like a canned chicken salad recipe, you can drain the fluid to control the texture and moisture content of the dish.
Can you pan-fry canned chicken?
Yes, you can pan-fry canned chicken to enhance its texture and flavour. Heat some oil in a skillet and fry the chicken until golden brown. This technique can elevate the canned chicken for a chicken salad sandwich or recipe.
How to improve canned chicken?
To improve canned chicken, add seasonings such as garlic, onion, or paprika to enhance its flavour. You can incorporate it into a chicken salad recipe with mayonnaise or use fresh vegetables to make a more flavorful dish. A squeeze of lemon or lime juice can also brighten up the taste.
How much protein is in canned chicken?
Canned chicken is a good source of protein, with about 20-25 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. It is an excellent addition to a healthy canned chicken salad recipe or sandwich. For a more balanced meal, pair it with some fibre-rich vegetables.
How long is canned chicken safe to eat?
Canned chicken is safe for up to 2-5 years if stored properly in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it should be consumed within 3-4 days when kept in the refrigerator. You can freeze leftovers from your canned chicken salad recipe or other dishes for a longer shelf life.
How long does canned chicken salad last in the fridge?
A prepared canned chicken salad recipe lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store it in a sealed container to keep it fresh. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider making a healthy canned chicken salad recipe with fresh ingredients.
Do restaurants use canned chicken?
Some restaurants may use canned chicken in certain menu items, particularly for quick and cost-effective meals like salads or sandwiches. However, many high-end establishments prefer fresh chicken for its texture and flavour. A canned chicken salad recipe can provide home cooks with a convenient, budget-friendly alternative.
Can you use canned chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, canned chicken can be used instead of fresh chicken in many recipes, including chicken salad or wraps. It provides a convenient and quick option for busy days. Choose a healthy canned chicken salad recipe that minimizes processed ingredients for a healthier dish.
Why do you rinse canned chicken?
Rinsing canned chicken helps remove excess sodium, preservatives, and lingering canning liquids. This improves the taste and texture, especially in recipes like a simple chicken salad recipe. Rinsing also makes it a healthier choice by reducing the amount of added salt.
How do you get the canned taste out of canned chicken?
To remove the canned taste, rinse the chicken and let it sit in a flavorful marinade or dressing for 10-15 minutes. Adding fresh herbs, lemon, or vinegar to a canned chicken salad recipe can also help mask the metallic taste. A combination of seasonings and a little creativity will enhance the chicken’s flavour.