Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious lunch idea? Look no further! This canned chicken salad recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or packed lunches. It's a simple, healthy meal that's surprisingly flavorful and customizable to your taste. Forget soggy sandwiches; this recipe delivers a creamy, satisfying chicken salad that's perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or even lettuce wraps. This recipe is a true lifesaver for those days when you need a fast, homemade lunch option without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 ounces each) chicken breast, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use light mayo for a healthier option)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
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Prep the chicken: Open and drain both cans of chicken breast. Use two forks to shred the chicken into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Removing any large chunks ensures even mixing and a smoother texture in your final salad.
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Combine ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. If using nuts, add them now.
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Mix well: Gently stir all ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy mayonnaise mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference.
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Chill (optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is especially recommended if you are using pre-cooked chicken which often lacks the rich flavors of freshly cooked chicken.
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Serve: Spread the chicken salad generously on your favorite bread, crackers, or lettuce cups. Add extra crunch with some crisp lettuce leaves or tomato slices.
Tips for the Best Canned Chicken Salad:
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Use high-quality mayonnaise: The mayonnaise is the base of your salad, so using a good quality mayonnaise will make a big difference in the taste.
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Don't overmix: Overmixing can make the chicken salad mushy. Gently stir until everything is just combined.
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Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add more or less of any ingredient to suit your taste preferences. A dash of paprika adds a smoky depth, while a pinch of garlic powder adds a savory kick.
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Get creative with additions: Experiment with different add-ins such as grapes, cranberries, apples, or hard-boiled eggs.
Variations:
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Spicy Chicken Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
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Curry Chicken Salad: Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of curry powder for an exotic twist.
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Avocado Chicken Salad: Mash in 1/2 of a ripe avocado for a creamy, healthy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy chicken salad recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner. It’s a delicious and versatile dish that's sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!