Name: Canned Chicken Salad Recipe: Quick and Creamy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 12.5 oz cans chicken, drained; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ½ cup diced celery; ½ cup halved grapes; ¼ cup diced red onion; ¼ cup chopped toasted almonds; 1 tbsp chopped dill; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp pepper; Optional: Lettuce (croissants); Suggested Pairings: Iced tea (crackers)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Canned Chicken Salad is a quick, creamy dish for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups. This pantry-friendly recipe, featuring tender canned chicken tossed with crisp celery, sweet grapes, and a tangy mayo dressing, delivers satisfying, crowd-pleasing flavor with minimal effort. This Canned Chicken Salad offers a bright, elegant aesthetic that elevates any lunch table, served chilled and presented in a white ceramic bowl, optionally garnished with fresh dill or toasted almonds. This recipe provides a simple no-cook method with shelf-stable ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for busy home cooks seeking a go-to meal that brings fresh, delightful charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Canned Chicken Salad:

2 (12.5 oz) cans chicken breast, drained and flaked
½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ cup celery, finely diced
½ cup red grapes, halved
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
¼ cup toasted almonds or pecans, chopped
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
½ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For Serving:

Optional: Lettuce leaves, croissants, crackers
Suggested Accompaniments: Tomato slices, avocado
Suggested Pairings: Iced tea, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
Suggested Equipment: Large mixing bowl, spatula, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Drain Chicken: Open cans, drain liquid, and flake chicken into a large bowl using a fork.
Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Add celery, grapes, onion, almonds, and dill to the chicken. Pour dressing over the top.
Mix Gently: Fold everything together until evenly coated. Avoid overmixing to keep texture.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to meld flavors.
Adjust Flavor: Taste a small spoonful and adjust with more lemon, salt, or dill for balanced tang and freshness.
Serve: Scoop into a white ceramic bowl. Optionally garnish with extra dill or almonds. Serve in lettuce cups, on croissants, or with crackers, paired with iced tea or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Canned Chicken Salad

Use high-quality canned chicken (in water, not oil) for the best texture.
Toast nuts for a deeper flavor and crunch.
Chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste and creaminess.
Present in a white ceramic bowl to highlight the colorful mix.
Make ahead: Prepare up to 1 day in advance; store covered in fridge.
Use a light hand when mixing to prevent mushiness.
Enhance aesthetic: Serve in lettuce cups for a fresh, vibrant pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Canned Chicken Salad: Naturally gluten-free.
Low-Cal Canned Chicken Salad: Use light mayo or half Greek yogurt.
Keto Canned Chicken Salad: Omit grapes; add ¼ cup diced pickles.
Curried Canned Chicken Salad: Add 1 tsp curry powder and ¼ cup raisins.
Crunchy Canned Chicken Salad: Add ½ cup diced apple and ¼ cup celery root.
Spicy Canned Chicken Salad: Mix in ¼ tsp cayenne or sriracha.
Herbed Canned Chicken Salad: Add fresh parsley, chives, or tarragon.
Tuna Swap Canned Chicken Salad: Replace chicken with canned tuna.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Not recommended for freezing (texture suffers).
Serve chilled for the best creamy, crisp texture.
Use as a sandwich, wrap, or dip for lunches or picnics.
Pair with iced tea or sparkling water to complement the tangy, fresh flavors.
Presented in a white ceramic bowl with garnishes for a bright, elegant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (about ½ cup each):

Calories: 260 kcal
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 520mg
Total Carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 20g
Vitamin A: 2% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 6% Daily Value
Calcium: 2% Daily Value
Iron: 6% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-cal or keto options reduce carbs or fat). High in protein.

Conclusion

This Canned Chicken Salad recipe delivers a quick, creamy dish perfect for lunches or picnics. It transforms pantry staples into a fresh favorite. Its no-cook preparation and elegant presentation make it a go-to. The tender chicken and crisp mix-ins delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its convenient, crowd-pleasing charm.