If you’re searching for a refreshingly tangy twist on a classic favorite, this Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender shredded chicken with the unmistakable zing of dill pickles, balanced perfectly by creamy Greek yogurt and a hint of sweet relish. Each bite delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and exciting — perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or an easy-to-pack picnic treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating its signature flavor. From the creamy tang of Greek yogurt to the bright crunch of dill pickles, every component adds depth and personality to the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken: The hearty base, providing protein and a tender texture that carries the other flavors beautifully.
- 2/3 cup diced dill pickles: Adds a refreshing, lively crunch with that classic pickle zing that defines the salad.
- 1/4 cup minced red onion: Offers a sharp, slightly sweet bite that complements the creamy dressing perfectly.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: A healthier creamy element that introduces tang without overpowering the other tastes.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Brings richness and smoothness to balance the acidity of the pickles and yogurt.
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish: Contributes sweetness and extra texture, rounding out the flavors nicely.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick and depth, cutting through the creaminess with a mild sharpness.
- 1 teaspoon dried chives: Brings a mild oniony aroma and a touch of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill: Reinforces the pickle flavor, enhancing the salad’s signature dill notes.
How to Make Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by ensuring your chicken is cooked and shredded — leftover roasted chicken works wonderfully here. Dice the dill pickles into bite-sized pieces and mince the red onion finely. Prepping everything beforehand will make mixing the salad quick and effortless.
Step 2: Combine the Main Components
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the shredded chicken, diced dill pickles, and minced red onion. This trio is the heart of the salad and sets the stage for those vibrant flavors to shine.
Step 3: Mix in the Creamy Dressing
Now, add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, dried chives, and dried dill to the bowl with your chicken mixture. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to coat every ingredient in that luscious dressing, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and the perfect creamy consistency.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give your chicken salad a quick taste test. This step is essential because it lets you tweak the seasoning just right — maybe a pinch more dill, an extra spoonful of mayo for creaminess, or a dash more mustard if you want a little extra zip.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe is ready to shine. Serve it immediately on buttery croissants, crisp toast, or with your favorite crackers. Its delightful textures and tangy-sweet flavors make it a crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion.
How to Serve Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh dill or chopped chives can elevate the salad’s appearance and taste by adding a fresh herbal note that complements the dill already in the dish.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with crunchy raw veggies such as celery sticks or cucumber slices, and a light, crisp green salad creates a well-rounded meal perfect for warm or cool weather.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Try stuffing the salad into pita pockets, rolling it into wraps with lettuce leaves, or topping off small toasted baguette slices as bite-sized appetizers for your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad keeps well for up to three days while maintaining its fresh flavors and creamy texture.
Freezing
Because of the dairy and pickles, freezing isn’t recommended for this chicken salad, as it might cause separation and affect the texture upon thawing.
Reheating
This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. If you want warm chicken salad, heat the chicken separately and gently mix with the other ingredients just before serving to preserve the creamy freshness.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds great flavor, making your Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe even easier to assemble.
Is Greek yogurt necessary, or can I use sour cream?
Greek yogurt adds a healthy tang and creaminess, but sour cream works as a substitute if you prefer a richer taste. Just be mindful it might make the salad a bit heavier.
How can I make this salad more spicy?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a delightful spicy kick that complements the dill pickles nicely.
Can this salad be made vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, and use vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt. This way, you can still enjoy the tangy, creamy character of the original.
What is the best bread to serve with the chicken salad?
Soft croissants or whole grain bread are fantastic choices, providing a tender or hearty base that pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy salad.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about this Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe that makes it a keeper in any recipe box. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for all sorts of meals. I can’t wait for you to whip up a batch, share it with friends or family, and enjoy every flavorful bite together!
Print
Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a flavorful and creamy dish combining shredded cooked chicken with tangy dill pickles, Greek yogurt, and a blend of herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, it offers a refreshing twist on classic chicken salad with a hint of dill and mustard.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2/3 cup diced dill pickles
- 1/4 cup minced red onion
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded into bite-sized pieces. Dice the dill pickles and mince the red onion finely to prepare for mixing.
- Combine Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, diced dill pickles, and minced red onion. Stir gently to combine these base ingredients evenly.
- Add Dressing and Herbs: Incorporate the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, dried chives, and dried dill into the bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly until all components are well combined and uniformly coated.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chicken salad and adjust any seasoning as needed for your preference. You may add salt or pepper if desired.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately on croissants, toasted bread, or over crackers for a delicious and easy meal or snack.
Notes
- This recipe uses pre-cooked chicken to save preparation time; rotisserie chicken works well.
- For a lighter version, omit mayonnaise and use extra Greek yogurt.
- Chilling the salad for 30 minutes before serving can enhance flavors.
- Serve on your choice of bread or crackers, or use as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
- Adjust dill and chives to taste for stronger or milder herb flavor.
