These Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches are a tasty twist on a classic. Made with tender chicken, crunchy dill pickles, and creamy mayo, they’re simply delightful!
Who knew that pickles could take chicken salad to a whole new level? I love piling it high on soft bread—perfect for lunch or a quick snack. You might just find it hard to stop at one! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for ease. If you have leftover chicken, like from dinner, that works great too. For a lighter option, try canned chicken, but fresh is always my favorite!
Dill Pickles: The tangy crunch of dill pickles is key here. If you’re not a fan, try sweet pickles for a different flavor or even relish. But honestly, the dill really gives that classic taste!
Red Onion: Red onions add color and a mild bite. If they’re too strong for you, swap in green onions or shallots instead. They give a nice flavor without overpowering the dish.
Mayonnaise: While I love traditional mayo, Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want fewer calories. You can also mix mayo with a dash of sour cream for a creamier texture.
Fresh Dill: Fresh dill is fabulous for this recipe. If you can’t find it, dried dill works too—just use a smaller amount since it’s more concentrated. My go-to is a teaspoon of dried dill to keep the flavor just right!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Well Mixed?
Mixing your chicken salad well is important for even flavor. Start with your cooked chicken in a large bowl and add in all the ingredients together. Here’s how to ensure a good mix:
- Use two forks or your hands to shred the chicken for a finer mix.
- Combine the mayo and Dijon mustard first to create a smooth dressing before adding solids.
- Don’t rush! Take your time to fold everything gently until combined.
This helps the flavors blend together in a delicious way. And don’t forget to chill it! A little time in the fridge really boosts the taste!
How to Make Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Sandwiches:
- 4 to 6 sandwich buns or slider rolls
- Optional: Lettuce leaves for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill. So, if you plan ahead, you can have delicious sandwiches ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped dill pickles, red onion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh dill. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until all the ingredients are well combined and coated.
2. Season to Taste:
Add salt and pepper to the chicken salad mixture based on your taste preference. If you want it a bit creamier, you can add a little more mayonnaise until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Chill for Flavor:
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help all the delicious flavors come together.
4. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
Once chilled, take the chicken salad out of the fridge. Grab your sandwich buns or slider rolls. Place a generous scoop of the chicken salad onto the bottom half of each bun. If you’re using lettuce, add a few leaves on top of the chicken salad for some extra crunch.
5. Finish and Serve:
Top each sandwich with the top half of the bun. If you’d like, garnish with additional chopped dill pickles for extra flavor. Serve the sandwiches right away, or you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy your delightful dill pickle chicken salad sandwiches!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop enough chicken to make 2 cups and proceed with the recipe as usual. It adds amazing flavor and saves you from cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or a vegan mayonnaise if you prefer a plant-based version. Both will give your chicken salad a creamy texture!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just give it a good stir; you may want to add a touch more mayonnaise to refresh the flavors!
What Else Can I Add to the Chicken Salad?
Feel free to get creative! Chopped celery adds a nice crunch, and you could also include shredded carrots or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to suit your taste!
