Name: Delicious Dill Pickle Chicken Salad for a Quick Crunchy Lunch
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 3 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded or chopped); ¾ cup dill pickles (roughly chopped); ½ cup celery (finely chopped); ⅓ cup fresh dill (minced); ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt (creamy base); ⅓ cup mayonnaise (or use avocado oil mayo); 2 tablespoons grainy mustard (rich flavor booster); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (rich flavor booster); 1 medium lemon (zest and juice); to taste teaspoon salt

“Crunch! The sound of a satisfying bite into a dill pickle never fails to brighten my day. If you’re anything like me—a lover of all things tangy and crunchy—you’ll be thrilled to discover this Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad. Not only does it come together in a mere 10 minutes, but it packs an impressive 28 grams of protein while keeping carbs to just 2.5 grams per serving. This high-protein, low-carb delight is perfect for meal prepping or whipping up a quick, nutritious lunch that won’t leave you craving fast food. With layers of fresh flavors and delightful textures, this salad is bound to be a hit at your table. Curious about how to make it your own while keeping that iconic pickle zing? Let’s dive in!”

Why Is This Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Special?

Quick Preparation: In just 10 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal without the fuss of lengthy cooking!

High Protein Power: With 28 grams of protein per serving, it fuels your day while keeping carbs low.

Versatile Ingredients: Customize this salad with your favorite add-ins, from hard-boiled eggs to spicy jalapeños, for extra flair.

Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for preparing ahead of time; it stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days—ideal for busy weeknights.

Delicious Flavor Twist: The combination of creamy yogurt and tangy dill pickles delivers a unique flavor profile that transforms this dish into a memorable experience.

If you enjoy vibrant meals like this, you might also want to try my Chopped Chicken Bacon or the refreshing Lemon Garlic Chicken.

Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Ingredients

• Ready to crunch your way to deliciousness? Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering salad!

For the Salad

Rotisserie Chicken – Main protein source that’s easy to shred or chop for convenience.
Dill Pickles – Adds tanginess and crunch; feel free to substitute with bread and butter pickles for a sweeter touch.
Celery – Provides additional freshness and crunch; chopped cucumbers can be a delightful alternative.
Fresh Dill – Enhances the dill flavor; if using dried dill, remember to use less due to its potency.

For the Dressing

Plain Greek Yogurt – Serves as a creamy, healthy base; can substitute with all mayo for a richer texture.
Mayonnaise – Adds a luscious creaminess; avocado oil mayo is a healthier option to consider.
Mustard (Grainy & Dijon) – Rich flavor boosters; use yellow mustard for a milder flavor.
Lemon (zest & juice) – Brightens the salad; if you’re out of lemons, vinegar can do the trick!
Salt – Enhances all the flavors; feel free to adjust to your taste.

This Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is not just a meal; it’s a crunchy, zesty delight that comes together in minutes and will leave you feeling satisfied!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by preparing your ingredients for the Dill Pickle Chicken Salad. Shred or chop 3 cups of rotisserie chicken to create a protein-rich base. Next, roughly chop ¾ cup of dill pickles and finely chop ½ cup of celery for crunch. Finally, mince about ⅓ cup of fresh dill to enhance those delicious pickle flavors.

Step 2: Mix Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine ⅓ cup of plain Greek yogurt, ⅓ cup of mayonnaise, and 2 tablespoons each of grainy and Dijon mustard. Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the bowl for brightness. Whisk the mixture until it’s completely smooth and well incorporated, creating a creamy dressing that binds the chicken salad together beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once you have your dressing ready, add the prepared chicken, chopped dill pickles, celery, and fresh dill to the bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. This step ensures that each bite of your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is bursting with flavor and texture.

Step 4: Season
After combining everything, it’s time to taste and season your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad. Sprinkle in salt according to your preference and mix again. This little touch enhances the overall flavor profile, balancing the tang from the pickles and the creaminess of the dressing.

Step 5: Chill
For the best flavor, transfer the salad to the fridge and let it chill for about 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste of your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad and providing a refreshing crunch perfect for lunch!

Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad truly unique and personal!

Tuna Twist: Substitute rotisserie chicken with canned tuna for a seafood flair. This provides a rich, protein-packed alternative that’s just as delicious.
Veggie Delight: Replace chicken with chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based version. The chickpeas add a creamy texture while staying perfectly satisfying.
Creamy Avocado: Blend in diced avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats. Each bite will be a luscious experience, enriching the overall flavor profile.
Hearty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans to introduce an extra crunch. The nuts not only elevate the texture but also add a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with pickles.
Spicy Kick: Toss in finely diced jalapeños to heat things up. If you’re a fan of spice, this zesty addition will give your salad a delightful kick that contrasts beautifully with the tanginess of the pickles.
Sweet Touch: For a hint of sweetness, try adding a spoonful of honey or maple syrup to the dressing. This unexpected twist balances the tang and creates a harmonious flavor.
Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh basil or chives for a burst of fresh flavor. Each bite will be a refreshing surprise, elevating the salad experience.
Curry Flavor: Add curry powder to the dressing for a unique and flavorful variation. This tantalizing spice will transform your salad into an exciting and exotic dish!

If you enjoy customizing recipes, you might also like my Crockpot Coconut Chicken for a deliciously different dish or even my zesty Greek Chicken Meatballs as a savory side!

What to Serve with Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

Looking to complement the flavors of your tangy, protein-packed chicken salad? These delightful pairings will elevate your meal!

Crispy Lettuce Wraps: Replace traditional bread with vibrant lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy delivery of your salad. Each bite enhances the satisfying crunch of the salad.
Savory Hard-Boiled Eggs: Rich in protein, these eggs can be sliced and served alongside or diced into the salad. They add an extra layer of creaminess.
Roasted Cauliflower: Lightly seasoned and roasted, this veggie provides a comforting, warm contrast to the cold, crunchy salad. A great way to add more fiber!
Fresh Veggie Sticks: Carrots and bell peppers provide a wonderful crunch and vibrant colors. They also keep the snack time healthy and light!
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that brightens up the meal and mirrors the zesty lemon notes in the salad. Perfect for a sunny day on the patio!
Creamy Avocado Toast: The rich, buttery flavor of ripe avocado contrasts beautifully with the zesty salad, making it a satisfying side. Perfect for brunch!
Cheesy Cauliflower Breadsticks: These low-carb delights pair wonderfully with the salad’s tangy flavors while offering a chewy texture that’s utterly satisfying.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chillable varietal balances the richness of the salad while complementing the dill pickle’s unique zest. Ideal for a cozy dinner party!

Each pairing promises to enhance your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad experience, creating a meal that’s not only tasty but also perfectly balanced!

How to Store and Freeze Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious!

Freezer: While it’s not recommended to freeze the salad due to the creamy dressing’s texture, you can freeze chicken separately for later use. Just remember to thaw in the fridge before assembling.

Reheating: If you’ve stored chicken separately, reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving the salad itself to preserve its texture and freshness.

Meal Prep Tip: Prepare it ahead of time for quick lunches throughout the week! Just mix the salad fresh each time for optimal taste and crunch.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy lunches without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the salad components—shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped dill pickles, celery, and fresh dill—up to 3 days in advance. Simply store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crunchy texture. When you’re ready to serve, mix the prepped ingredients with the creamy dressing (made fresh). For optimal taste, chill the assembled salad for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully, ensuring each bite remains just as delicious as the day it was made.

Tips for the Best Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

Perfect Texture: Aim for shredded rotisserie chicken to achieve a tender base. Avoid chunks that could disrupt the salad’s creamy consistency.
Flavor Balance: Adjust the mustard quantities to your liking; too much can overwhelm the dill pickle flavor. Start with less and add more to taste.
Crunch Factor: For extra crunch, consider adding chopped almonds or sunflower seeds. They complement the salad while adding a delightful texture.
Chill Time: Allow your salad to chill for at least 15 minutes. This step is key for the flavors to mingle, enhancing your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad.
Ingredient Swap: Feel free to substitute with your favorite low-carb veggies, like bell peppers or radishes, if you’re looking for a personalized twist.

Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for the Dill Pickle Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! For this Dill Pickle Chicken Salad, rotisserie chicken is the easiest and most flavorful option, as it’s already cooked and shredded. However, you can also use leftover grilled chicken or poach your own if preferred. Just make sure to shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces for better integration with the other ingredients.

How long can I store Dill Pickle Chicken Salad in the fridge?
You can store your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. As the salad sits, the flavors actually deepen and mesh beautifully. Be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving!

Can I freeze Dill Pickle Chicken Salad?
While it’s best not to freeze the entire salad because the creamy dressing can separate and lose its charming texture, you can freeze cooked chicken separately. To do this, place it in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air before sealing, and it can last up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before mixing it into your salad.

What if my salad is too salty?
If you find your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is too salty, don’t worry! Add some additional chopped celery or diced cucumber to the mix. These crunchy veggies can help dilute the saltiness while maintaining the salad’s fresh texture. You could also add a bit more Greek yogurt or mayo to balance the flavor.

Is Dill Pickle Chicken Salad suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, it can be tailored to fit various dietary needs! For gluten-free eaters, ensure that all condiments are certified gluten-free. If you’re managing calorie intake, opt for light mayo and Greek yogurt. As for allergies, keep an eye on the pickles and any additional ingredients you choose to add, but otherwise, this salad is quite flexible and can accommodate different preferences.

Can I make this salad without Greek yogurt?
Certainly! If you prefer not to use Greek yogurt, you can substitute it entirely with mayonnaise. For a healthier twist, use avocado oil mayo for that creamy consistency while keeping things wholesome. Just ensure that whatever you use complements the dill and tang of the pickles to maintain the flavor profile.