4 Ingredient Chicken Salad Everyone Will Love Instantly

Chef Sophia

Discover the perfect 4 ingredient chicken salad that's quick, easy, and packed with flavor. A simple, healthy meal everyone will love!

5 from 2 votes

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Lunch, Main Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is key for easily chopping your celery and any other add-ins. A dull knife can lead to uneven cuts and might slow you down.
Cutting board: Keep a clean, sturdy cutting board for all your chopping. This will help prevent any mess and make sure your ingredients are neatly prepped.
Large Mixing Bowl: A good-sized bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients without making a mess. You’ll want enough room to toss everything together evenly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons Accurate measurements ensure you get the right balance of ingredients. While this recipe is forgiving, having the right portions is key to achieving that perfect chicken salad texture.
Spoon or Spatula: You’ll need something to mix your ingredients together. A spatula or large spoon helps combine the mayo with the chicken and veggies smoothly.

2 cups Cooked Chicken: shredded or diced: Use leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled breasts, or even poached chicken for a convenient and flavorful base.
½ cup Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy binder for the salad, bringing all the flavors together.
½ cup Celery: finely diced: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch to balance the creaminess.
Seasoning Salt and Pepper to taste: Keep it simple with classic salt and pepper, or add a sprinkle of garlic powder, paprika, or dill for an extra kick.

Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley chives, or cilantro can elevate the dish with a pop of color and freshness.
Nuts or Seeds: Sliced almonds or sunflower seeds add a nutty crunch.
Fruits: Diced apples or grapes bring a delightful sweetness to contrast the savory base.

If you're using leftover chicken, simply shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If you're starting from scratch, cook your chicken breasts until fully cooked, then chop.

Wash and slice your celery into small, even pieces. The smaller the dice, the easier it will blend with the chicken.

In your large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and diced celery. Mix in the mayonnaise, then stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined and coated.

Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. This is your chance to adjust the seasoning—if you like a little extra flavor, try adding garlic powder, paprika, or even a squeeze of lemon juice.

For immediate enjoyment, serve the salad right away on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or on crackers.
If you prefer, cover the bowl and chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Keyword 4 ingredient chicken salad, easy chicken salad, quick chicken salad recipe