These Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches are a crunchy joy! Made with tender chicken, zesty dill pickles, and a creamy dressing, they’re a tasty twist on the classic chicken salad.
Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, they’re so good, you might end up making a second batch! I love piling mine high with lettuce on my favorite bread. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for this recipe because it’s easy and full of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use leftover baked or grilled chicken, or even canned chicken for a quicker option.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the salad. If you want a lighter option, you can reduce the amount and use more Greek yogurt instead. For a dairy-free version, look for vegan mayo alternatives!
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but I love adding it for an extra tang. If you prefer not to use it, simply increase the mayo or use sour cream instead. You can also try plain yogurt if you want a similar texture.
Dill Pickles: The star of the show! Use your favorite type of dill pickles. If you’re watching your sodium intake, look for low-sodium versions. If you don’t have pickles, chopped cucumbers with a splash of vinegar can work as a substitute.
Red Onion: I like the crunch and flavor it adds, but green onions or shallots can be a milder alternative. For less bite, soak chopped onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to the mix.
What’s the Best Way to Combine All the Ingredients?
Combining the ingredients for the chicken salad is a simple but crucial step. Here’s how to do it effectively for the best flavor:
- Start with the shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl to give it room to move around.
- Add mayonnaise and Greek yogurt (if using). Mix well so every piece of chicken is coated. This ensures a creamy texture.
- Then, add the chopped dill pickles, red onion, Dijon mustard, and dill. Stir until everything is well incorporated. This is where the flavors start blending!
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust with salt and pepper. A little seasoning can elevate the whole dish!
- Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
How to Make Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for tanginess)
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Sandwiches:
- 4 to 6 sandwich rolls or slider buns
- Additional dill pickle slices for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by a 30-minute chill time for the chicken salad to let all the flavors mix together nicely. It’s a quick and easy dish to have ready for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Chicken Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken. Pour in the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt (if you’re using it) and mix everything together until the chicken is nicely coated. It’s all about getting that creamy goodness in there!
2. Adding Flavor:
Next, add the finely chopped dill pickles, red onion, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill into the bowl. Give it a good stir to combine everything well. This is where the salad starts to come alive with flavor!
3. Seasoning to Taste:
Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to suit your taste buds. Mix again and feel free to adjust more if you like it spicier or milder. After mixing, let the chicken salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help all the delightful flavors blend together.
4. Assembling Your Sandwiches:
When you’re ready to eat, grab your sandwich rolls or slider buns. Take a generous scoop of the chicken salad and place it on the bottom half of the rolls. If you want, add some extra dill pickle slices on top for that extra crunch and flavor!
5. Final Touch:
Put the top half of the roll or bun over the chicken salad and there you have it—delicious Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches! Serve them right away, or wrap them up in plastic wrap for a tasty meal later on.
Enjoy your yummy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works great for this salad. Just make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces. If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin if you prefer a lighter salad.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with more Greek yogurt for a healthier option or use avocado for a creamy, dairy-free version. Just keep in mind this will alter the flavor slightly, so adjust seasonings as needed!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and assemble the sandwiches just before serving to prevent the rolls from getting soggy.