Easiest 3-Ingredient Chicken Salad Recipe

When you need a quick and satisfying meal, this 3-ingredient chicken salad recipe is the answer. Combining tender chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and protein-rich hard-boiled eggs, it’s as simple as it is delicious. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or salads, it’s a versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again.

This easiest 3-ingredient chicken salad recipe is one of my go-to recipes whenever I don’t know what to make for lunch.  This chicken salad needs just 3 ingredients – chicken, eggs and mayo.  These ingredients for the easy chicken salad are almost always available in my refrigerator!

Why You’ll Love Easiest 3-Ingredient Chicken Salad Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy days or when you need a last-minute meal solution. With only three ingredients, there’s minimal prep and cleanup required.
• Versatile: Use this chicken salad in sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for leafy greens. It works for lunch, snacks, or even a light dinner, giving you plenty of options.
• Protein-Packed: With chicken and eggs as the main ingredients, this salad is a great source of lean protein to keep you full and energized throughout the day.
• Kid-Friendly: The simple, mild flavors of this chicken salad make it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to pack a school lunch or a quick family meal.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or even diced veggies to make this recipe your own. Whether you like it plain or with extra flair, it’s adaptable to your taste.

For the chicken you can use leftover cooked chicken, packaged chicken strips or frozen boneless chicken breasts or thighs.  If using frozen chicken, just defrost it in a microwave and cook in a frying pan for 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

I like to use this easy chicken salad as a filling for a chicken salad sandwich.  Just spread a thick layer of the chicken salad on a piece of bread and top with another piece of bread.  This chicken salad sandwich is a really filling lunch!

Ingredients:

• 1  chicken breast, cooked – Provides lean protein and the main base for the salad. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even cook frozen chicken if needed.
• 1 egg, hard-boiled – Adds creaminess and extra protein to the salad, making it hearty and satisfying.
• 2 tbsp mayo – Brings everything together with its rich, creamy texture. Feel free to use regular, light, or even a flavored mayo.
  
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Easiest 3-Ingredient Chicken Salad

• Food Processor with Slicer Blade – Perfect for quickly slicing the chicken and eggs into even pieces.
• Knife and Fork – An alternative to the food processor for chopping the chicken and mashing the egg manually.
• Mixing Bowl – A medium-sized bowl to combine and mix the ingredients.
• Spoon – Useful for mixing the chicken salad until it’s evenly coated with mayonnaise.

Directions:

With a food processor fitted with a slicer blade that goes on top, slice the chicken and eggs.  It’s very important to use the top slicer blade and NOT the usual blade that’s inside the processor – the chicken should be in pieces, not ground into a paste!  If you’d rather not use the food processor, you can also chop the chicken into small pieces with a knife, and mash the egg with a fork.

Put chopped chicken and egg in a bowl and add mayo.  Mix with a spoon.  Add salt and pepper to taste.  Enjoy this easy chicken salad!

Serving Suggestions

• Spread a generous layer of the chicken salad between two slices of bread for a quick and hearty sandwich.
• Scoop it onto a bed of lettuce and tomato for a light and refreshing salad.
• Use it as a filling for wraps or pita breads for an easy handheld meal.
• Serve with grilled carrots or cucumber spears as a dip for a fun and portable snack.
• Pair it with a bowl of chickpea soup or a side of fresh blueberries for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Tips For Success

• Use Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this recipe makes ingredient quality essential. Opt for fresh, tender chicken and good-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.
• Cook Chicken Properly: If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, make sure it’s fully cooked and juicy. Overcooked chicken can make the salad dry. Cook frozen chicken in a pan for about 5 minutes on each side until no longer pink inside.
• Chill the Ingredients: If time allows, chill the chicken and eggs before making the salad. Cold ingredients help the mayonnaise blend better and create a refreshing texture.
• Don’t Over-Process: If using a food processor, avoid over-processing the chicken and egg. The goal is to create small chunks, not a paste. Use the slicer blade instead of the regular chopping blade for better results.
• Season to Taste: Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also get creative with spices. Try adding paprika, garlic powder, or fresh dill for an extra layer of flavor.
• Customize It: Feel free to mix in diced celery, onion, or even pickles for added crunch and flavor. Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also enhance the salad.
• Serve Fresh: While the salad can be stored, it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture. If storing, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Portion Appropriately: This recipe makes about two servings, but it can be easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.

Variations And Substitutions

• Swap the Protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, canned chicken, or turkey instead of cooked chicken breast. Each option brings a slightly different flavor and texture to the salad.
• Lighten It Up: Substitute regular mayonnaise with light mayo, Greek yogurt, or avocado for a lower-calorie and healthier version. These swaps still provide creaminess while cutting back on fat.
• Add Some Crunch: Stir in diced celery, red onions, or bell peppers for a satisfying crunch. Chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds are also great additions for texture.
• Boost the Flavor: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a burst of freshness. You can also add a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to give it a flavor boost.
• Make It Sweet: For a sweet-savory twist, add diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries. These ingredients add a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken salad.
• Spice It Up: Add a kick of heat by mixing in a bit of sriracha, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce. A few chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes work well, too.
• Go Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free mayo to make this recipe suitable for those with dairy sensitivities or allergies.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps or on cucumber slices instead of bread for a low-carb alternative.
• Experiment with Seasoning: A touch of lemon juice or Dijon mustard can add a tangy zing to the salad, while curry powder can give it an entirely new flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it cold to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the mayonnaise can separate and the texture of the chicken and egg may change upon thawing.
• Reheating: Since this is a cold dish, it doesn’t require reheating. Simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes if it’s too cold to enjoy immediately.
• Freshness Tip: If the salad seems dry after a day or two, stir in a small amount of mayonnaise to refresh it before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken works well as a substitute for cooked chicken breast. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the salad from becoming watery.

What type of mayonnaise should I use?

Any mayonnaise you prefer will work. Regular, light, or even flavored mayonnaise like garlic or chipotle can add a unique twist to the salad.

Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chicken salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors might meld together even better after sitting for a few hours.

Is this chicken salad gluten-free?

The salad itself is naturally gluten-free. If serving as a sandwich, ensure the bread or wrap you use is gluten-free to keep the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I double or triple this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is easy to scale up. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities while keeping the same proportions, and mix everything in a larger bowl.

What can I serve with this chicken salad?

It pairs well with fresh fruit, crackers, or a side salad. You can also serve it on a croissant, in a wrap, or on lettuce leaves for variety.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

If cooking chicken from scratch, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. You can check this using a meat thermometer.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, the egg adds creaminess and protein, but you can omit it if preferred. Consider adding diced avocado or an extra spoonful of mayonnaise to maintain the creamy texture.

Can I add more ingredients to this salad?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with extras like chopped celery, onions, or fresh herbs. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to your liking.

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