A 3-ingredient chicken salad is the perfect example of simple cooking at its best minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and ready in minutes. Whether you’re preparing quick lunches, meal-prep bowls, or light summer sandwiches, this easy chicken salad delivers freshness and convenience without sacrificing taste.
What Is 3-Ingredient Chicken Salad?
This ultra-simple chicken salad uses only three core ingredients chicken, mayonnaise, and celery (or grapes depending on variation). The recipe became popular because busy home cooks wanted a fast dish without long prep times. Over the years, it has become a go-to meal for picnics, potlucks, kids’ lunchboxes, and weight-friendly diets.
Ingredients (Only 3!)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced; rotisserie works best)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped (or substitute grapes/apples for sweetness)
Nutrition Table (Per Serving – 1 cup)
(Placed in the middle as requested)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 345 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
| Sugar | 1 g |
How to Make 3-Ingredient Chicken Salad
Step 1: Add the cooked chicken to a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Stir in mayonnaise.
Step 3: Fold in celery (or grapes/apples).
Step 4: Mix well until creamy and evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill 20 minutes for best flavor.
That’s it—your chicken salad is ready to serve!
Flavor Variations
Even though this is a 3-ingredient recipe, here are optional variations that stay simple:
1. Sweet Version
- Replace celery with chopped grapes or apples.
2. Crunchy Version
- Add almonds or sunflower seeds (optional).
3. Tangy Version
- Mix in 1 tsp lemon juice or Dijon mustard.
4. Low-Fat Version
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
- As a sandwich filling inside soft bread or croissants
- Scooped over crackers or toasted baguette
- Served on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
- Topped on a bowl of greens as a quick salad
- Stuffed into pita pockets or tortillas for an easy lunch
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended (mayonnaise separates).
- Meal Prep Tip: Keep celery separate until serving if you want maximum crunch.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick (ready in 5 minutes)
- Budget-friendly
- High-protein
- Customizable
- No cooking needed if using rotisserie chicken
