Are you tired of the same old boring lunch routine? Look no further! With canned chicken, you can whip up a delicious and healthy meal in just minutes. The best part? You don’t need to be a culinary expert to create these tasty treats.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 quick and easy canned chicken salad recipes that are perfect for busy days or when you want a quick pick-me-up. From classic combinations like celery and mayo to more adventurous flavors like buffalo and avocado, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your canned chicken and let’s get started!
Classic Canned Chicken Salad with Celery and Mayo
This timeless recipe is a staple in many American households. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying salad that’s perfect for lunches, picnics, or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 2 stalks of celery, diced
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onion, hard-boiled egg, or pickle relish for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked chicken, diced celery, and mayonnaise.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped onion or pickle relish if desired.
Cooking Time: None required – just mix and chill!
Spicy Buffalo Canned Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this creamy, spicy, and protein-packed recipe that combines the convenience of canned chicken with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of cooked chicken breast in water
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp buffalo wing sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped green onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain the canned chicken and rinse with cold water.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the yogurt, buffalo wing sauce, and honey until smooth.
3. Add the drained chicken, celery, and green onion to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Avocado and Canned Chicken Salad Wrap
A refreshing and healthy twist on a classic wrap, this Avocado and Canned Chicken Salad Wrap is perfect for a quick lunch or snack. With the creamy texture of avocado and the protein-packed punch of canned chicken, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup canned cooked chicken, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Optional: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese for added crunch
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mashed avocado, flaked chicken, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Mix until well combined.
2. Lay the tortilla flat and spoon the salad mixture onto one half of the wrap.
3. Fold the other half over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick, easy, and ready in no time.
Cranberry Walnut Canned Chicken Salad
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the flavors of cranberries and walnuts with tender canned chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of cooked chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Drain the canned chicken and place it in a medium-sized bowl.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cranberries, walnuts, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Add the cranberry-walnut mixture to the chicken and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just mix and chill!)
Greek Yogurt Canned Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this Greek yogurt-based recipe combines the creaminess of yogurt with the convenience of canned chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) of chicken breast in water or juice
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Drain the liquid from the canned chicken and flake it into a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest until smooth.
3. Add the chopped red onion and cucumber to the yogurt mixture and stir to combine.
4. Fold in the flaked chicken until well coated with the yogurt mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Curry Canned Chicken Salad with Almonds
Add a twist to your usual chicken salad with this flavorful recipe that combines the convenience of canned chicken with the warmth of curry spices and the crunch of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon of curry powder
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup of sliced almonds
– 1 medium apple, diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flaked chicken, Greek yogurt, curry powder, honey, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped cilantro and sliced almonds.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with diced apple if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( prep time only)
BBQ Ranch Canned Chicken Salad
This delicious salad combines the flavors of tangy BBQ sauce, creamy ranch dressing, and tender canned chicken for a satisfying and healthy snack or meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup crumbled cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked chicken, BBQ sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped green onions and crumbled cheddar cheese (if using).
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes, chill time: 5-10 minutes)
Pesto Canned Chicken Salad Sandwich
Pesto Canned Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
A classic twist on a familiar favorite, this Pesto Canned Chicken Salad Sandwich combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of canned chicken. The result is a deliciously different sandwich that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of chicken breast in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 lettuce leaf, chopped
– 2 slices of whole wheat bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the flaked chicken, pesto, olive oil, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Add the chopped lettuce to the bowl and stir until well combined.
3. Divide the chicken salad mixture onto two slices of bread.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Asian-Inspired Canned Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing
Transform canned chicken into a flavorful and nutritious salad by combining it with crunchy vegetables, savory sesame dressing, and aromatic Asian-inspired flavors. This quick and easy recipe makes for a perfect lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of cooked chicken (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup of diced carrots
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flaked chicken, cucumber, carrots, and scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the sesame dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Tex-Mex Canned Chicken Salad with Black Beans
This flavorful salad combines the convenience of canned chicken with the heat of jalapeños and the creaminess of Greek yogurt. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is a twist on traditional chicken salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast in water, drained
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, black beans, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Greek yogurt, and lime juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (marinating)
Apple and Pecan Canned Chicken Salad
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this sweet and savory chicken salad recipe, featuring tender canned chicken, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast in water
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Drain the liquid from the canned chicken and place it in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Add the diced apple, chopped pecans, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard to the bowl with the chicken.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Bacon Ranch Canned Chicken Salad
Elevate your canned chicken game with this creamy and savory salad that combines the richness of bacon, the tanginess of ranch dressing, and the comfort of a classic salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of cooked chicken breast
– 6 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain the canned chicken and place it in a large bowl.
2. In a small pan, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Let cool and crumble into small pieces.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and ranch seasoning until well combined.
4. Add the crumbled bacon, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the chicken mixture. Stir until everything is fully incorporated.
5. Spoon the salad into individual serving bowls or containers.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time!)
Mediterranean Canned Chicken Salad with Olives
This refreshing salad combines the convenience of canned chicken with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, making it perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With its tangy dressing and savory olives, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed coast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, olives, red onion, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Canned Chicken Salad with Grapes
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of grapes with a tangy dressing for a deliciously light lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of chicken breast (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of red grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked chicken, grapes, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey.
2. Mix until well combined, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (including preparation time)
Dill Pickle Canned Chicken Salad
This classic chicken salad gets a tangy twist with the addition of dill pickle juice, creating a refreshing and flavorful snack or lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup canned chicken broth
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens or lettuce
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, chicken broth, mayonnaise, dill, dill pickle juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon the salad onto a bed of mixed greens or lettuce.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( preparation and chilling time included)
Southwest Canned Chicken Salad with Corn
This Southwest-inspired chicken salad combines the convenience of canned chicken with the freshness of corn, black beans, and a hint of cumin. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, corn, black beans, mayonnaise, lime juice, and cumin.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Pineapple Coconut Canned Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut, all wrapped up in a delicious canned chicken package.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup of shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken, pineapple, and coconut.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Mustard and Honey Canned Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this sweet and tangy combination of canned chicken, mustard, and honey! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of cooked chicken (10.5 oz), drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of pure honey
– 1/4 cup of chopped celery
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and honey until well combined.
2. Add the flaked chicken, chopped celery, and chopped onion to the bowl. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add mayonnaise and mix until the salad reaches your desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (all prep and no cooking required!)
Spinach and Feta Canned Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of creamy feta cheese, tangy spinach, and tender canned chicken. A great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast in water
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain the canned chicken and flake it into a medium-sized bowl.
2. Add the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice to the bowl.
3. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 0 hours 15 minutes
Garlic Herb Canned Chicken Salad on Croissant
A flavorful twist on the classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the flaky texture of croissant.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of cooked chicken breast (drained and shredded)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 croissant, split in half
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the mayonnaise until the mixture is smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Spread the chicken salad on one half of the croissant.
6. Top with chopped walnuts if using.
7. Place the other half of the croissant on top to complete the sandwich.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these 20 quick and easy canned chicken salad recipes! From classic combinations like celery and mayo, to international twists like Asian-inspired sesame dressing, there’s something for everyone. Try spicy buffalo chicken with ranch, or go Mediterranean with olives and feta. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and tangy or savory and herby, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches. With just a few ingredients and simple prep, you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time!