Dill pickle chicken salad is a refreshing twist on a classic favorite. With tender chicken, tangy pickles, and a creamy dressing, it’s packed with flavor and crunch in every bite. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or gatherings. Whether you serve it on a sandwich, in a wrap, or over greens, this chicken salad with pickles will be a hit. Ready to bring a burst of flavor to your next meal? Let’s dive in!
Introduction to Chicken Salad Recipe With Pickles
Dill pickle chicken salad brings a fresh, tangy twist to a beloved classic, combining tender chicken with the bold flavor of pickles in a creamy, savory dressing. This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves the crunch and zest of pickles but wants a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s satisfying and easy to prepare.
Unlike traditional chicken salad, which often features celery and grapes, dill pickle chicken salad offers a unique combination of creamy and tangy flavors that make it stand out. The pickles add just the right amount of zest, balancing the richness of the dressing while adding a delightful crunch that enhances the texture.
This dish is versatile, fitting into a variety of meals. You can serve it as a sandwich, stuffed in pita bread, or even on top of fresh greens for a low-carb option. It’s also fantastic for meal prepping, as it stays fresh and flavorful in the fridge for several days.
Ingredients Needed
To make a flavorful dill pickle chicken salad, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together perfectly to create a creamy, tangy, and refreshing dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
Cooked Chicken:
About 2 cups, diced or shredded. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, leftover cooked chicken breast, or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch. The chicken should be tender and juicy for the best texture.
Dill Pickles:
1/2 cup, finely chopped. Dill pickles are the star ingredient here, bringing a crunchy texture and tangy flavor. Choose a brand of dill pickles you love, as their flavor will influence the overall taste of the salad.
Celery:
1–2 stalks, finely diced. Celery adds extra crunch and a fresh flavor that complements the pickles and chicken. Be sure to chop it finely so it blends well with the other ingredients.
Red Onion:
1/4 cup, finely diced (optional). Red onion adds a bit of bite and color to the salad. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can substitute with green onions or shallots.
Creamy Dressing Ingredients
Mayonnaise:
1/2 cup, or adjust to your preference. Mayonnaise provides a creamy base for the dressing. You can use regular or light mayo depending on your taste and dietary preferences. For a healthier alternative, try half mayo and half Greek yogurt.
Dijon Mustard:
1 tablespoon. Dijon mustard adds a hint of spice and a subtle tang that enhances the dressing’s depth of flavor. You can adjust the amount if you prefer a more or less pronounced mustard flavor.
Dill Pickle Juice:
1–2 tablespoons. Pickle juice intensifies the dill flavor and adds acidity, helping to balance the richness of the mayo. Start with 1 tablespoon, then add more to taste.
Fresh Dill:
1 tablespoon, finely chopped (optional). Fresh dill gives an extra boost of herby flavor. If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, you can substitute with dried dill, but use about 1 teaspoon as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Salt and Black Pepper:
To taste. Season the salad lightly, as the pickles and mayo may already contain salt. Black pepper adds a bit of warmth and depth.
Optional Add-Ins
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: 1–2, chopped. Hard-boiled eggs can add extra protein and a richer texture to the salad. They’re a common addition in classic chicken salads and work well with the dill pickle flavor.
- Chopped Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor without the sharpness of red onion.
- Sweet Relish: 1 tablespoon (optional). If you like a slightly sweet contrast, a small amount of sweet pickle relish can be added, but this is entirely optional and up to taste.
Tools and Equipment
Making dill pickle chicken salad is simple and requires only a few basic kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare and serve the salad:
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
You’ll need a good cutting board and a sharp knife to dice the chicken, chop the pickles, celery, and onion, and prepare any optional add-ins like hard-boiled eggs or fresh herbs. A sharp knife will make the chopping easier and help you get evenly-sized pieces.
Mixing Bowl
A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients. Choose a bowl that gives you enough space to toss everything without spilling, especially when adding the dressing.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to balancing flavors, particularly for the dressing ingredients. Use measuring cups for the main ingredients like chicken and mayonnaise, and measuring spoons for smaller amounts like mustard, pickle juice, and seasonings.
Spatula or Large Spoon
A spatula or large spoon works best for mixing everything together. A rubber spatula is especially helpful for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring all the dressing coats the salad ingredients evenly.
Whisk (Optional)
If you prefer, you can use a small whisk to blend the dressing ingredients before adding them to the salad. This helps ensure the mayonnaise, mustard, and pickle juice are fully combined, creating a smooth, creamy dressing.
Airtight Storage Container
If you’re making the salad in advance or planning to store leftovers, an airtight container is essential to keep the salad fresh in the refrigerator. Choose a container that seals well to prevent any leaks or loss of freshness.
Optional Tools
- Egg Slicer (if adding hard-boiled eggs): An egg slicer is helpful for chopping eggs quickly and evenly, making it easy to add them as an optional ingredient.
- Herb Scissors (if using fresh dill): Herb scissors make it quick to finely chop fresh dill, adding a boost of fresh flavor to the salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Dill Pickle Chicken Salad
Making this dill pickle chicken salad is quick and easy. Follow these steps to get a perfectly balanced, creamy, and tangy salad ready to enjoy in just minutes!
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Cook and Chop the Chicken:
If you haven’t already prepared the chicken, start by cooking it. You can poach, grill, bake, or use leftover or rotisserie chicken. Once cooked and cooled, dice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Aim for about 2 cups of chicken.
Chop the Pickles and Vegetables:
Finely chop the dill pickles, celery, and red onion. The pickles should be small enough to blend well with the other ingredients without overpowering the texture. If you’re adding fresh dill or green onions, chop them as well.
Prepare Additional Ingredients (Optional):
If you’re adding hard-boiled eggs, slice them into small pieces. Set these aside until you’re ready to mix everything together.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
Combine the Dressing Ingredients:
In a small bowl, add 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1–2 tablespoons of dill pickle juice. Whisk the mixture until smooth. Add the fresh dill if using, and season lightly with salt and black pepper to taste.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the dressing and adjust as needed. For more tang, add a bit more pickle juice. If you prefer a thicker dressing, you can add a little extra mayonnaise.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Add Ingredients to the Mixing Bowl:
Place the chicken, chopped pickles, celery, and red onion (and any optional add-ins like eggs or green onions) into a large mixing bowl.
Pour in the Dressing:
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Use a rubber spatula or large spoon to toss everything together, making sure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the salad and add more salt, pepper, or a splash of pickle juice if desired. Remember that the pickles and mayonnaise may already add some salt, so taste as you go.
Step 5: Chill (Optional)
Refrigerate:
For best flavor, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. If you’re short on time, you can serve it immediately, but chilling is recommended.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve as Desired: Scoop the chicken salad into sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups. It also makes a great topping for salads or as a dip with crackers.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh dill or a few extra pickle slices on top for added flavor and presentation.
Making the Creamy Dressing
The dressing is the heart of this dill pickle chicken salad, tying together the flavors of the chicken, pickles, and fresh veggies with a rich, tangy creaminess. It’s simple to make and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Follow these steps to prepare the perfect dressing:
Ingredients for the Dressing
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup (adjust to taste)
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Dill Pickle Juice: 1–2 tablespoons
- Fresh Dill: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Greek Yogurt: Replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
- Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: A pinch of either can enhance the flavor if you want a slightly bolder taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Measure and Add Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup mayonnaise as the base for the dressing. If you’re using Greek yogurt as a substitute, combine it with the mayo at this stage. Add 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for a slight tang and depth of flavor. Pour in 1–2 tablespoons of dill pickle juice. Start with 1 tablespoon, taste, and add more if you want a stronger pickle flavor.
Incorporate Fresh Dill (Optional)
Finely chop fresh dill and add it to the bowl. Fresh dill brings a vibrant herby flavor that complements the pickles. If using dried dill, sprinkle in about 1 teaspoon instead.
Season the Dressing
Add a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Remember that the pickles and pickle juice already add some saltiness, so season sparingly at first. Adjust to taste after mixing.
Whisk Until Smooth
Use a whisk or fork to blend all the ingredients together. The dressing should be creamy, smooth, and well-emulsified. Make sure all the mayo and mustard are evenly combined, with no lumps.
Taste and Adjust
Taste the dressing to ensure it’s balanced. If you prefer more tang, add a bit more pickle juice or mustard. For a creamier texture, stir in an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise.
Tips for the Perfect Dressing
- Balancing the Flavors: The pickle juice adds acidity, which cuts through the richness of the mayo. Adjust the amount to suit your personal preference for tanginess.
- Make Ahead: The dressing can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Customizing: Add your favorite spices, like paprika or a touch of cayenne, to give the dressing a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Dill pickle chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion, from casual lunches to party platters. Here are some creative and delicious serving ideas:
Sandwiches and Wraps
- Classic Sandwich: Serve the chicken salad between two slices of bread for a simple yet satisfying sandwich. Use whole grain, sourdough, or rye bread for added flavor.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb or gluten-free option, spoon the salad into large lettuce leaves (like romaine or butter lettuce) and roll them up.
- Tortilla Wraps: Spread the chicken salad onto a tortilla, add fresh greens or sliced tomatoes, and roll it into a wrap for a portable meal.
As a Salad Topping
- Over Mixed Greens: Serve the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a light and refreshing meal. Add extra toppings like cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or avocado.
- With Coleslaw: Pair the chicken salad with a side of coleslaw or layer it over shredded cabbage for extra crunch and texture.
Stuffed Options
- Stuffed Avocados: Scoop out half an avocado and fill the center with chicken salad for a healthy, keto-friendly meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of dill or paprika for presentation.
- Bell Pepper Boats: Halve a bell pepper, remove the seeds, and fill each half with the chicken salad. This adds a pop of color and a crisp, refreshing texture.
Snack Platters and Dips
- Crackers or Crostini: Use the chicken salad as a dip or spread. Serve it alongside a platter of crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette for a perfect party appetizer.
- Vegetable Platter: Pair the salad with celery sticks, cucumber rounds, or carrot sticks for a healthy, crunchy snack.
Party-Friendly Options
- Mini Sliders: Use small dinner rolls or slider buns to create bite-sized chicken salad sandwiches, perfect for parties or picnics.
- Cucumber Cups: Hollow out thick slices of cucumber and fill them with chicken salad for an elegant and refreshing appetizer.
Breakfast and Brunch
- On a Bagel: Spread the chicken salad over a toasted bagel for a savory breakfast option.
- With Hard-Boiled Eggs: Serve a scoop of chicken salad alongside sliced hard-boiled eggs for a protein-packed start to your day.
Meal Prep and Takeaway
- Pre-Portioned Containers: Divide the chicken salad into individual containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch during the week. Pair with a side of fruit or veggies for a complete meal.
- Picnic or Potluck Dish: Pack the salad in a chilled container to bring to a picnic or potluck. Serve with crackers or rolls for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Garnish for Presentation
Sprinkle fresh dill, paprika, or a few extra pickle slices on top of the salad for a polished look before serving. If serving as a party dish, use a decorative bowl or platter for an eye-catching presentation.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Dill pickle chicken salad is an excellent make-ahead dish that stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers. Proper storage ensures the salad stays fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat. Follow these tips to keep your chicken salad at its best:
Use Airtight Containers
Transfer the chicken salad into an airtight container with a secure lid. This helps prevent air from drying out the salad and keeps it fresh. If you’re storing multiple servings for meal prep, consider dividing the salad into smaller, individual containers. This makes it easier to grab a portion when needed and reduces repeated exposure to air.
Refrigeration
Always refrigerate leftover chicken salad promptly. Do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as this can encourage bacterial growth. Store the salad in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).
Shelf Life
Dill pickle chicken salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. After this time, the texture and flavor may degrade, and it’s best to discard any leftovers. Avoid freezing the chicken salad, as mayonnaise-based dressings tend to separate and become watery when thawed, resulting in an undesirable texture.
Storing Components Separately (Optional)
If you’re making the salad ahead of time and want the crunchiest texture, consider storing the dressing and the solid ingredients (chicken, pickles, and veggies) separately. Combine them just before serving. This is particularly useful if you plan to store the salad for several days, as it prevents the pickles and celery from softening in the dressing.
Avoiding Contamination
Always use clean utensils to scoop out portions of chicken salad to avoid introducing bacteria. Never eat directly from the storage container if you plan to save leftovers. If serving the salad at a party or picnic, keep it chilled on ice to maintain a safe temperature. Discard any salad that has been sitting out for more than 2 hours.
Refreshing the Salad
If the salad looks dry after storage, stir in a little extra mayonnaise, pickle juice, or a splash of lemon juice to restore its creamy texture and flavor. For salads stored with the dressing mixed in, give it a quick toss before serving to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Meal Prep Tips
For an easy lunch option, pair pre-portioned chicken salad with crackers, a small salad, or fresh fruit in a bento-style container. Keep the salad chilled with a cold pack if taking it on the go. If you’re using the salad as a sandwich filling, store the bread and salad separately to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Dill Pickle Chicken Salad
To make your dill pickle chicken salad truly outstanding, here are some helpful tips and tricks to enhance flavor, texture, and ease of preparation:
Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience
- For a quicker and easier prep, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked, seasoned, and ready to shred or chop. This will save you time and still result in a flavorful salad.
- If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, that works perfectly too. Just make sure the chicken is tender and juicy for the best texture.
Experiment with Pickles
- Different Types of Pickles: While dill pickles are classic, feel free to experiment with other varieties like bread-and-butter pickles or spicy pickles if you want a twist on the traditional recipe. Just be mindful of the sweetness or spice level of the pickles, as it will affect the overall flavor.
- Pickle Relish: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use dill pickle relish instead of chopped pickles. Just reduce the amount of pickle juice in the dressing to avoid making the salad too watery.
Make It Lighter
- Greek Yogurt Substitute: To cut back on calories while still keeping the salad creamy, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This adds protein and a tangy flavor without compromising texture.
- Light Mayo: Use light mayonnaise or a lower-fat version for a healthier alternative without sacrificing too much creaminess.
Add Extra Crunch
- Chopped Nuts: For added crunch and a hint of nuttiness, throw in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds. This can provide an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Sunflower Seeds: Another great crunchy addition is sunflower seeds, which also complement the tanginess of the pickles nicely.
Customize the Seasoning
- Add Garlic or Onion Powder: If you like a more robust flavor, try adding a small pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the dressing. These ingredients will enhance the depth of flavor without being overpowering.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add brightness and balance the richness of the mayo. It also pairs beautifully with the tangy pickle flavor.
Make the Salad Ahead
- Prepare in Advance: Dill pickle chicken salad tastes even better after it sits for a few hours or overnight. Preparing the salad ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together, making for a more flavorful dish. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Meal Prep: You can portion out individual servings of chicken salad into containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch. Pair with some crackers, veggies, or a small side salad for a complete meal.
Use Fresh Herbs
- Fresh Dill: Fresh dill is always the best option when making dill pickle chicken salad, as it adds a vibrant, aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh dill, you can substitute dried dill, but use it sparingly (about 1/3 of the amount) since dried herbs are more potent.
- Other Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley, tarragon, or chives for a different twist.
Adjust the Creaminess
- Thicker or Thinner Dressing: If you like a thicker, more indulgent dressing, add a bit more mayo. For a lighter option, reduce the mayo and add a bit more pickle juice or a splash of vinegar.
- Cream Cheese or Sour Cream: For a tangier dressing with a bit more texture, you can incorporate a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream into the dressing mix.
Add Protein Variations
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Adding chopped hard-boiled eggs to the chicken salad gives it more protein and creaminess, enhancing both the flavor and texture.
- Bacon: If you’re a bacon lover, crumbled bacon bits can add a savory, crispy element that pairs wonderfully with the tangy pickles.
Serve It With Side Dishes
- Vegetable Sides: Pair your chicken salad with fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, or a light coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- Pickle Slices on the Side: To enhance the dill pickle flavor, serve the salad with extra pickle slices or even pickle spears as a crunchy side.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your dill pickle chicken salad can help you make informed choices, whether you’re meal prepping, watching your calorie intake, or just curious about the benefits of this tasty dish. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information for a typical serving of dill pickle chicken salad. Keep in mind that the numbers may vary depending on specific ingredients or portion sizes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – About 1/2 Cup)
- Calories: 250–300 kcal
- Protein: 20–25 grams
- Fat: 18–22 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3–5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4–6 grams
- Fiber: 1–2 grams
- Sugars: 2–3 grams
- Sodium: 400–500 mg
- Cholesterol: 60–75 mg
Key Nutrients:
Protein:
The chicken provides a solid source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. This is one of the main components that makes this chicken salad a filling meal.
Healthy Fats:
The mayo (or Greek yogurt) used in the dressing contributes healthy fats, which are important for energy, cell function, and nutrient absorption. You can reduce the fat content by using light mayo or substituting part of it with Greek yogurt, which also adds protein.
Fiber:
The celery, pickles, and other vegetables in the salad add some fiber, which is great for digestion and promoting fullness. A typical serving of this salad offers about 1–2 grams of fiber.
Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: The mayo provides some vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and immune function.
- Vitamin C: Pickles, especially when fresh, contain small amounts of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
- Calcium: If you use Greek yogurt, it can add some calcium, which is important for bone health.
- Iron: The chicken provides a moderate amount of iron, necessary for healthy red blood cells and overall energy levels.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Option:
If you are following a low-carb or keto diet, you can enjoy dill pickle chicken salad without worrying about high carb intake. The salad is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those on such diets. To keep it keto-friendly, consider:
- Using full-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
- Serving it in lettuce wraps or with a side of crunchy low-carb vegetables.
How to Reduce Calories and Fat:
- Lighten the Dressing: Use light or fat-free mayonnaise or replace part of it with Greek yogurt to reduce fat and calories.
- Add More Veggies: Bulk up the salad with extra celery, onions, or even chopped bell peppers to add volume without significantly increasing calories or carbs.
Serving Size Variations:
The nutritional values above are based on a typical serving size of about 1/2 cup (roughly 100 grams). If you decide to serve larger portions, the values will increase accordingly.
Conclusion
Dill pickle chicken salad is a delightful, tangy, and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty lunch, a light dinner, or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, this versatile recipe is sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a range of serving options, it’s a meal you can enjoy all year long. Plus, with tips for storage, ingredient substitutions, and nutritional insights, you can easily tailor this salad to fit your preferences and dietary needs. So, go ahead and give this delicious dill pickle chicken salad a try—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!
FAQS
Chicken Salad Recipe With Pickles
Equipment
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Spatula or Large Spoon
Ingredients
chicken salad
- 4 cups shredded or chopped chicken cooked chicken
- 1 cup diced dill pickles
- 1/3 cup sliced green onions
creamy dressing
- 1 bar 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice from the pickle jar
- ¾ teaspoon dried dill
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine the chicken, diced dill pickles, and green onion in a mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill pickle juice, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over the chicken salad and stir together until well combined.
- Let the chicken salad refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This chicken salad is much better when it's cold but can also be served immediatley after making it if wanted. Serve with croissants, rolls, or lettuce leaves.
- Store leftovers in a covered container for about 3 days.