Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for a quick lunch, you’re going to love making and sharing this Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad. It combines tender, shredded chicken with crisp dill pickles, zesty herbs, and a creamy dressing that brings everything together beautifully. This salad has just the right bite and tang to satisfy your taste buds, making it a true crowd-pleaser whether you’re packing it for a picnic or serving it at a casual get-together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is so important because each one adds its own special touch. From the juicy chicken to the tangy pickles and fresh herbs, these simple components come together to create a salad that’s layered with texture and flavor.

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken: The hearty protein base that makes this salad filling and satisfying.
• 2/3 cup diced dill pickles: Adds a bright, vinegary crunch that’s essential for that unmistakable pickle punch.
• 1/4 cup minced red onion: Brings a subtle sharpness and color contrast to the mix.
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess with a slight tang, making the dressing lighter and fresher.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Balances the yogurt for richness and binds all ingredients together.
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish: Introduces a sweet note and extra texture to complement the dill pickles.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Offers freshness and a pop of green color.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Lends depth and a subtle spicy kick to the dressing.
• 1 teaspoon dried chives: Provides an oniony herb flavor that melds perfectly with the salad.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill: Enhances the pickle flavor and adds a fragrant herbal touch.

How to Make Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Start by gathering your shredded cooked chicken, diced dill pickles, and minced red onion in a large mixing bowl. This trio forms the hearty and crunchy base of your salad, setting the stage for all the delicious dressing to come. Make sure the chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces for the perfect texture balance.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh parsley, dried chives, dried dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy and flavorful dressing gives the Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad its irresistible zing and keeps every bite moist and well-coated.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold everything together using a spoon or spatula. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly combined so each spoonful delivers that perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and tang. Take a moment to taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired — this personal touch makes all the difference.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Now that your salad is perfectly blended, it’s time to enjoy! Whether you prefer it on its own, piled high on toast, or tucked inside a croissant, this Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is sure to delight. It’s incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with your favorite serving method.

How to Serve Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few extra dill pickles on top not only brightens up the presentation but also adds a refreshing burst of aroma and flavor that complements the salad wonderfully. For a bit of crunch, toasted nuts or seeds can be a surprising and delightful garnish.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or crunchy vegetable sticks. You might also enjoy it alongside warm, buttery croissants, soft rolls, or crunchy crackers that provide a perfect contrast to the creamy chicken salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve your Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad in lettuce cups for a fresh and low-carb option? It also shines as a filling for wraps or stuffed inside ripe tomatoes or avocados to make a striking appetizer. These creative presentations turn a humble salad into a stunning dish that’s perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it an excellent make-ahead option for busy days or meal prepping. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors.

Freezing

We usually don’t recommend freezing chicken salad made with mayonnaise and yogurt as the texture can change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, ensuring you get that creamy, dreamy consistency every time.

Reheating

This salad is delightful served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed. If you prefer, just let it sit out for a few minutes before serving to bring out the flavors even more vividly.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and works perfectly for the shredded chicken in the Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad, saving you prep time without sacrificing flavor.

Is it possible to make this salad dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative and use a mayonnaise that doesn’t contain eggs if you prefer. The salad will still be creamy and delicious.

How can I make the salad spicier?

Add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños to the dressing. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also amp up the heat while keeping all the other flavors balanced.

What’s the best way to dice the pickles to avoid sogginess?

Drain the dill pickles well and pat them dry before dicing. This helps prevent excess moisture from making your chicken salad watery and keeps every bite perfectly crisp.

Can I prepare the salad a day ahead?

Definitely! In fact, letting the Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad sit in the fridge overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Dill Pickle Chicken Salad really is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat. It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly versatile – everything you want for a fuss-free meal that still feels special. Give it a try and I promise it will become a favorite for lunches, snacks, and anytime you want a little taste of something truly delicious.

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