Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Dill Pickle Chicken Salad combines savory chicken with the tangy crunch of dill pickles and a rich, creamy dressing infused with dill and garlic. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served over greens. The chill time allows the flavors to meld into a harmonious, refreshing salad that’s great for warm weather or picnic meals.
ingredients
- 4 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken
- 1 cup diced dill pickles
- 1/3 cup sliced green onions
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
- ¾ teaspoon dried dill
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
directions
- Mix the main ingredients: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced dill pickles, and sliced green onions. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
- Prepare the creamy dressing: In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and dill pickle juice. Stir in dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently fold together until every piece is coated with the creamy dill dressing.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. If short on time, 1 hour will suffice.
- Serve: Scoop onto croissants, sandwich rolls, or over crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter option.
- Store leftovers: Keep in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Servings and timing
- Yield: 4 servings
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes (assuming cooked chicken ready)
- Total time: 40 minutes (includes chilling)
Variations
- Add chopped celery or apples for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter dressing.
- Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives to enhance freshness.
- Use smoked chicken for a smoky flavor twist.
storage/reheating
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature; reheating is not recommended.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this salad.
What if I don’t have dill pickle juice?
Use a splash of vinegar or pickle brine as a substitute.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free spread or omit entirely.
How do I keep the salad from becoming mushy?
Fold ingredients gently and avoid over-mixing.
Can I prepare this salad ahead?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Can I add mustard?
A teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add a nice tangy depth.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, served on gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps it’s suitable for gluten-free diets.
How spicy is this salad?
Mild, but you can add black pepper or hot sauce for heat.
Can I add other pickles?
Yes, bread-and-butter or sweet pickles can add a different flavor.
What sides go well with this salad?
Pair with chips, fresh fruit, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a flavorful, creamy, and crunchy dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or light meals. Its unique dill-infused dressing brings a bright, tangy twist to classic chicken salad, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion.
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Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and creamy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad featuring shredded chicken, crunchy dill pickles, and a tangy dill-infused dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served over greens.
Ingredients
4 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken
1 cup diced dill pickles
1/3 cup sliced green onions
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
¾ teaspoon dried dill
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced dill pickles, and sliced green onions. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and dill pickle juice. Stir in dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently fold together until every piece is coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld (1 hour if short on time).
- Scoop onto croissants, sandwich rolls, or over crisp lettuce leaves to serve.
- Store leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Notes
Add chopped celery or apples for extra crunch and sweetness.
Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter dressing.
Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives for enhanced freshness.
Use smoked chicken for a smoky flavor twist.
Fold ingredients gently to avoid mushiness.
Dijon mustard adds tangy depth if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (assuming cooked chicken ready)
- Category: Salad, Main
- Method: Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: Approx. 350-380 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 3-4g
- Sodium: Approx. 700-900mg
- Fat: Approx. 25-28g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 8-10g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 12-15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 6-8g
- Fiber: Approx. 1-2g
- Protein: Approx. 30g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 90-110mg
