This Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a fun twist on the classic chicken salad. It features shredded chicken, crunchy pickles, and a light, zesty dressing. It’s super tasty!
I love to munch on this salad for lunch. It’s quick to make and perfect in a sandwich or on crackers. Just be ready to share—you won’t want to stop eating it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast for a lean option. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut. If you’re vegetarian, try swapping chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a hearty alternative.
Dill Pickles: These are the star of the salad! If you’re not a fan of dill pickles, you might try bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter taste. You could also use relish if you want smaller pieces mixed throughout.
Celery: Celery adds a nice crunch. If you don’t have any on hand, diced cucumbers or bell peppers can work well as substitutes. They provide that fresh crunch you’d want from celery.
Fresh Dill: This brings a lovely herbal flavor. If fresh dill isn’t available, you can use dried dill, but use only a teaspoon, as dried herbs are stronger than fresh.
Mayonnaise: The basis of the dressing. For a lighter option, swap it out for Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo if you’re looking for a plant-based choice.
How Do I Make Sure the Salad Has Great Flavor?
Getting the flavor just right in your chicken salad is key. Start by mixing all the dry ingredients first: chicken, pickles, celery, onion, and dill in one bowl, so they’re evenly distributed.
- Prepare the dressing in a separate bowl by whisking mayonnaise, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing into the chicken mix gradually and stir gently. This ensures all the ingredients get coated evenly.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step lets the flavors blend beautifully!
Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference!
Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken and Veggies:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup dill pickles, chopped (plus pickle slices for garnish)
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep time and then at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. This gives the flavors a chance to come together and makes the salad even tastier when served!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken, chopped dill pickles, chopped celery, finely chopped red onion, and fresh dill. Give this mixture a gentle toss to combine everything well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is going to bring all the ingredients together.
3. Mix Dressing with Chicken:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggie mixture. Gently stir everything together until the chicken and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Adjust Seasoning:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper to your preference. It’s always nice to fine-tune the flavor just right!
5. Chill:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall taste.
6. Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy, serve the chicken salad chilled. Garnish with extra fresh dill and pickle slices on top. It’s delightful on croissants, in a sandwich, or with crackers – very versatile!
Enjoy this creamy, tangy chicken salad, and the bright crunch of dill pickles and fresh herbs! Perfect for lunch or a picnic!
FAQ for Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad. Just shred or chop it up and follow the recipe as directed. It’s a great way to use up extra chicken!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute for mayonnaise, adding creaminess with a protein boost. You can also use a vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your chicken salad. Adding ingredients like chopped apples, grapes, or nuts can give additional flavor and texture. Just keep the balance in mind!
