Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

Name: Dill Pickle Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped); 1 cup dill pickles (finely chopped); 0.5 cup celery (finely diced); 0.25 cup red onion (finely chopped); 0.5 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version); 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped or 1 tsp dried); 1 tsp pickle juice (optional, for extra tang); salt and black pepper (to taste)

Growing up in an Italian kitchen, summers were synonymous with cold dishes, fresh herbs, and bold flavors. But on a trip to the American Midwest, I tasted something that completely changed my idea of the perfect summer lunch Dill Pickle Chicken Salad. Creamy, crunchy, tangy, and refreshing, this dish stood out not just for its flavor, but for how easy it was to throw together.

This version of chicken salad is an all-American favorite, especially popular in the Southern and Midwestern regions. It combines tender chunks of chicken with the sharp, briny bite of dill pickles and the coolness of creamy mayo. Whether you serve it in a sandwich, lettuce cup, or on its own, Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a crowd-pleaser.

Table of Contents

What is Dill Pickle Chicken Salad?

Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a variation of the traditional American chicken salad. It features shredded or diced cooked chicken mixed with mayonnaise, dill pickles, and other fresh ingredients like celery, onion, and mustard. The defining flavor comes from the dill pickles either chopped finely or in relish form and often enhanced with a splash of pickle juice for extra tang.

According to Wikipedia, chicken salad in the United States typically refers to a cold salad with chopped chicken and mayonnaise as its base. While early versions were quite simple, modern renditions like the dill pickle variation introduce bold and exciting flavors.

Health Benefits and Nutrition Insights

Besides being delicious, this salad has several redeeming nutritional qualities, especially when you tweak it with healthy swaps:

High protein: With lean chicken breast as its base, it delivers plenty of satisfying protein.
Low carb: When served without bread, Dill Pickle Chicken Salad becomes keto-friendly.
Customizable calories: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt or a low-fat option to reduce fat and calories.
Hydrating ingredients: Celery and pickles have high water content, which makes this salad hydrating on hot summer days.

On average, a serving (about 1 cup) of Dill Pickle Chicken Salad contains around 250–300 calories depending on the ingredients used. It also provides about 25 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and energizing meal.

Homemade Dill Pickle Chicken Salad in a ceramic bowl with sliced pickles and fresh dill.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
1 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
½ cup celery, finely diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp pickle juice (optional, for extra tang)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Use cooked, cooled chicken breast leftovers or rotisserie chicken work great. Dice or shred to your preferred texture.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

Dice your celery, red onion, and dill pickles finely for the best texture. Smaller pieces mean you get flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

Whisk the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dill, and pickle juice in a bowl until creamy. Add salt and pepper to your taste.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine chicken, pickles, celery, and onion. Pour in the dressing and stir gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Chill

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step enhances the flavors and ensures a crisp, cool bite every time.

How to Serve Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

The beauty of Dill Pickle Chicken Salad lies in its versatility. Here are some serving ideas:

Sandwiches: Pile into croissants, ciabatta rolls, or sourdough.
Wraps: Spoon into tortillas with spinach or romaine.
Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb version, serve in crunchy romaine or butter lettuce.
With Crackers: Make it a party appetizer with buttery crackers.
Stuffed Veggies: Fill bell pepper halves or avocado halves for a modern twist.
Want a classic lunchbox vibe? Serve your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad between two slices of toasted rye or sourdough for the ultimate Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe.

Flavor Boosts & Variations

To customize your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad, try these tasty upgrades:

Hard-Boiled Eggs: Chop and add for extra protein and richness.
Cheese Cubes: Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a heartier texture.
Spicy Pickles: Add heat with spicy dills or jalapeño pickles.
Avocado: Mix in diced avocado for creamy, healthy fats.
Bacon Bits: Add crispy bacon for a smoky crunch.
For a twist that feels like summer picnic bliss, consider turning your salad into a Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad or Dill Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe. Simply add chilled cooked pasta like rotini or elbow macaroni for a creamy, tangy, and hearty variation.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Dill Pickle Chicken Salad keeps beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep and busy summer days:

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing?: Not recommended, as mayo and veggies don’t freeze well.
Meal Prep: Make a double batch and portion it out for lunch all week.

🇺🇸 Regional Inspiration

Dill Pickle Chicken Salad reflects the creativity of American home cooks, especially from the Southern and Midwestern states where pickles are a pantry staple and cold salads reign in summer.

In many Midwestern kitchens, a Dill Chicken Salad Recipe is considered a family staple. In the South, you’ll often find sweeter versions with bread-and-butter pickles. The evolution of the Chicken Salad Recipe With Pickles shows just how adaptable this classic dish is, leading to modern spins like this one.

Some even go the extra mile by turning the dish into a full Dill Pickle Potato Salad, combining shredded chicken, pickles, and boiled potatoes for a bold picnic-ready hybrid.

Explore More Lunch Ideas

Looking for more refreshing lunch recipes?
➡️ Browse Summer Lunch Recipes

You’ll find plenty of recipes that pair beautifully with this chicken salad, like pasta sides, light soups, or creative sandwich ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Just drain well and shred. It’s a time-saving shortcut often featured in Canned Chicken Lunch Ideas.

Is Dill Pickle Chicken Salad keto-friendly?

Absolutely. As long as you skip the bread and stick to low-carb mayo, it’s a great keto meal.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free mayo alternative. No yogurt needed unless desired.

Can I freeze it?

Freezing is not recommended due to the mayo and fresh veggies. Make fresh and store in the fridge for best results.

Is it good for picnics?

Yes just keep it chilled in a cooler. It’s perfect for summer outings and outdoor meals.

How do I make a Low Calorie Chicken Salad version?

Simply use light mayo or Greek yogurt, and go easy on the dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick: Just 10 minutes of prep if you have cooked chicken.
No Cooking: Ideal for hot days when you want to skip the stove.
High Protein: Keeps you full and energized.
Family Friendly: Kids love it, especially in wraps or with crackers.
Customizable: Endless ways to adjust it to your taste or dietary needs.

Whether you’re heading to the park or just want something refreshing for your lunch break, Dill Pickle Chicken Salad delivers bold flavor without the fuss.

Conclusion

If summer had a flavor, it might just be Dill Pickle Chicken Salad. This chilled classic is everything you want in a warm-weather dish: tangy, creamy, crunchy, and light. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the most satisfying way. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, meal prepping for the week, or just need a quick, tasty lunch, this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to explore more lunch recipes here for even more summer inspiration. And if you’ve got a fun variation, share it in the comments we’re always looking for new ways to enjoy this all-American favorite.