Are you looking for a quick and easy meal that satisfies your cravings without taking up too much of your precious time? Well, you’re in for a treat! Today, I’m excited to share my Quick & Easy Chicken Salad Recipe that’s perfect for busy days. This delightful dish is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for quick family dinners. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that canned chicken sitting in your pantry! Let’s dive in and whip up this simple chicken salad recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for 30-minute meals.
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
- Perfect for light dinners or as a hearty lunch option.
- Great for meal prep and can be stored for later use.
- Uses canned chicken, making it a budget-friendly choice!
Ingredients
To make this easy chicken salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups canned chicken, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped nuts or grapes for added texture and flavor
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Making this chicken salad recipe is as easy as 1-2-3! Here’s how:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained canned chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt. Stir until well mixed.
- Add in the diced celery, red onion, parsley, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped nuts or grapes for a delightful crunch!
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your easy chicken salad turns out perfectly every time:
- For a creamier texture, feel free to add more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
- Experiment with different herbs like dill or chives for a unique flavor twist.
- If you prefer a bit of sweetness, consider adding a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples.
- This salad can be served on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or even in a wrap for a fun twist!
How to Serve
This chicken salad recipe easy is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
- Spread it on whole-grain bread for a satisfying sandwich.
- Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Pair it with some crunchy veggies or whole-grain crackers for a delightful snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
This easy chicken salad recipe is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you plan to make it ahead of time, I recommend adding any crunchy ingredients, like nuts or grapes, just before serving to keep them fresh.
- This salad can also be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
And there you have it! A simple chicken salad recipe that’s not only quick to make but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or a light lunch, this chicken salad is sure to please. Don’t forget to check out my other delicious recipes, like Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Chinese Takeout, for more inspiration. Happy cooking!
Quick & Easy Chicken Salad Recipe - Perfect for Busy Days!
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped celery, and red bell pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables, and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving.