Creamy, savory, and packed with tender chicken — this easy chicken salad is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, crackers, or lettuce cups. Make a big batch and you’re set for the week!
📋 Recipe Card
Yield: ~6 cups (about 5–6 servings)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time (if needed): 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Storage: Lasts up to 5 days in the fridge
Category: Salad, Protein, Meal Prep
Dietary Tags:
- High Protein
- Gluten-Free
- Low Carb
- Keto-Friendly
✅ Ingredients Checklist
- 3–4 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1–2 tablespoons Dijon or yellow mustard
- 1/3 cup celery, finely chopped (optional for crunch)
- 1/4 cup red onion or green onions, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, dill, or chives (optional for added flavor)
- Squeeze of lemon juice (optional for freshness)
🔪 Instructions
- Cook and shred chicken if not using pre-cooked (boiled, baked, or rotisserie works well).
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix shredded chicken, mayo, mustard, seasonings, and optional mix-ins (celery, onions, herbs).
- Taste and adjust: Add salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Chill (optional): Let it rest in the fridge for 30–60 minutes for the flavors to blend.
- Store in airtight containers (as shown in the image) for easy grab-and-go meals.
🥪 Serving Ideas
- Classic sandwich on toasted bread or croissants
- Lettuce wraps for low-carb/keto option
- Stuffed into pita pockets or tortilla wraps
- Served over greens as a salad
- With crackers or cucumber slices as a snack
🍽️ Variations & Add-Ins
- Sweet: Add grapes, dried cranberries, or apples
- Crunchy: Toss in chopped almonds or pecans
- Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne, or chopped jalapeños
- Tangy: Swap half of the mayo for sour cream or Greek yogurt
🧊 Storage Notes
- Refrigerator: Store in sealed containers for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Not recommended due to the mayo base — it may separate
- Meal Prep Tip: Portion into individual containers for easy lunches
🧮 Nutrition Estimate (Per 1 Cup)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~22g
- Carbs: ~3g
- Fiber: <1g
Nutrition will vary depending on mayo type and add-ins.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes! Just drain it well and break it up before mixing.
Q: Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for mayo?
A: Absolutely. It makes the salad lighter with a bit of tang.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. In fact, it tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.
Q: What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this?
A: Boiled or poached chicken breast works well. Rotisserie chicken is a fast option too.
✍️ Behind the Recipe
This big-batch chicken salad is ideal for busy weeks. Whether you’re meal-prepping for work, school, or just trying to eat better, it’s a go-to you’ll come back to again and again. It’s versatile, protein-packed, and ready in under 30 minutes.
