Easy Canned Chicken Salad Recipe for Busy Weekdays

In the hustle and bustle of busy weekdays, finding time to prepare a nutritious and delicious meal can feel like a daunting task.

Enter the Easy Canned Chicken Salad Recipe for Busy Weekdays—a quick, versatile, and budget-friendly solution that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Using pantry staples like canned chicken, this recipe is perfect for those moments when you need a wholesome meal in under 15 minutes.

Whether you’re packing a lunch, prepping a quick dinner, or looking for a protein-packed snack, this chicken salad has you covered.

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Why Choose Canned Chicken?

Canned chicken is a lifesaver for busy individuals. It’s pre-cooked, shelf-stable, and ready to use, making it an ideal ingredient for quick meals.

Not only is it convenient, but it’s also packed with protein, affordable, and widely available.

With this recipe, you’ll transform a humble can of chicken into a flavorful dish that feels fresh and satisfying.

Also Check: Hearty Chicken Stew Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 2-3)

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this easy canned chicken salad:

• 1 (12.5 oz) can of chicken, drained

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)

• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

• 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish (or chopped pickles for less sweetness)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for freshness)

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for brightness)

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional add-ins: Chopped apples, grapes, dried cranberries, or slivered almonds for extra texture and flavor

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Open the can of chicken and drain the liquid thoroughly. Place the chicken in a medium mixing bowl and use a fork to break it into smaller pieces for a smoother texture.

2. Mix the Base: Add the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) and Dijon mustard to the bowl with the chicken. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.

3. Add Crunch and Flavor: Incorporate the chopped celery, red onion, and sweet pickle relish. These ingredients add a satisfying crunch and a balance of sweet and savory notes.

4. Season and Enhance: Squeeze in the lemon juice, sprinkle in the garlic powder, and add salt and pepper to taste. If using fresh parsley, mix it in for a burst of freshness.

5. Customize (Optional): For a twist, toss in your favorite add-ins like chopped apples for sweetness, grapes for juiciness, or almonds for crunch. Mix gently to combine.

6. Serve or Store: Serve immediately on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or with crackers for a quick snack. If not eating right away, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Also Check: Honey Mustard Glazed Roast Chicken

Serving Suggestions

This canned chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy it:

• Sandwich or Wrap: Spread it on whole-grain bread or wrap it in a tortilla with lettuce and tomato.

• Salad Bowl: Serve over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a low-carb option.

• Cracker Topping: Pair with your favorite crackers for a quick snack or appetizer.

• Stuffed Veggies: Use as a filling for hollowed-out bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado halves.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weekdays

The beauty of this Easy Canned Chicken Salad Recipe for Busy Weekdays lies in its simplicity and adaptability.

With minimal prep and no cooking required, it’s perfect for those days when time is short.

You can prepare a batch at the start of the week and use it for multiple meals, saving you time and effort.

Plus, the ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it a go-to recipe for last-minute meals.

Tips for Success

• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter salad, reduce the mayonnaise or substitute with Greek yogurt. For a richer texture, add an extra tablespoon of mayo.

• Make It Your Own: Experiment with add-ins based on your preferences. Try curry powder for a spiced version or hot sauce for a kick.

• Storage: Keep the salad chilled and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Nutritional Benefits

This chicken salad is not only quick but also nutritious. Canned chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and energized.

The celery and onion add fiber and vitamins, while optional add-ins like apples or almonds contribute antioxidants and healthy fats.

By using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, you can boost the protein content even further and reduce calories.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Canned Chicken Salad Recipe for Busy Weekdays is a game-changer for anyone juggling a packed schedule.

It’s proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to enjoy a homemade meal that’s both delicious and nourishing.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent on the go, or just someone who loves a good no-fuss recipe, this chicken salad will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.

Give it a try and see how easy it is to eat well, even on the busiest of days.

Easy Canned Chicken Salad Recipe

This Easy Canned Chicken Salad is a quick, protein-packed recipe you can make in under 15 minutes, perfect for lunches, dinners, or snacks on busy days

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 3

Course: Main Course, Salad, Snack

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 12.5 oz can of chicken, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional, for a tangy kick
• 1 celery stalk finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
• 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish or chopped pickles for less sweetness
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional, for freshness)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice for brightness
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional add-ins: Chopped apples grapes, dried cranberries, or slivered almonds for extra texture and flavor

Method

 

1. Prepare the Chicken: Open the can of chicken and drain the liquid thoroughly. Place the chicken in a medium mixing bowl and use a fork to break it into smaller pieces for a smoother texture.
2. Mix the Base: Add the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) and Dijon mustard to the bowl with the chicken. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Add Crunch and Flavor: Incorporate the chopped celery, red onion, and sweet pickle relish. These ingredients add a satisfying crunch and a balance of sweet and savory notes.
4. Season and Enhance: Squeeze in the lemon juice, sprinkle in the garlic powder, and add salt and pepper to taste. If using fresh parsley, mix it in for a burst of freshness.
5. Customize (Optional): For a twist, toss in your favorite add-ins like chopped apples for sweetness, grapes for juiciness, or almonds for crunch. Mix gently to combine.
6. Serve or Store: Serve immediately on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or with crackers for a quick snack. If not eating right away, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter salad, reduce the mayonnaise or substitute with Greek yogurt. For a richer texture, add an extra tablespoon of mayo.
• Make It Your Own: Experiment with add-ins based on your preferences. Try curry powder for a spiced version or hot sauce for a kick.
• Storage: Keep the salad chilled and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.