This chicken salad sandwich is packed with tasty dill pickles for that perfect crunch! It’s simple, creamy, and brings a zing that makes every bite special.
If you ask me, adding dill pickles is like giving a boring chicken salad a fun party hat! 🎉 I love them on fresh bread with lettuce—so refreshing and perfect for lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for ease. It’s flavorful and saves time. If you don’t have chicken, chickpeas can be mashed as a vegetarian alternative.
Mayonnaise: A classic choice for creaminess. You could swap it for tahini or avocado for a different flavor. I often enjoy Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Dill Pickles: Fresh dill pickles add crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan, try sweet pickles or even pepperoncini for a kick!
Red Onion: Red onion provides a nice color and sharpness. If it’s too strong for you, green onions or shallots work well with a milder flavor.
Fresh Dill: Fresh herbs enhance freshness. If you can’t find fresh dill, dried dill works too but use less since it’s more potent.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chicken Salad?
Getting the right flavor in your chicken salad is key! Start by mixing the chicken, mayo, and yogurt well. This base creates a creamy texture that’s essential. Then add your chopped dill pickles, pickle juice, and onions.
- Mix everything gently to avoid breaking the chicken pieces too much.
- Letting it chill in the fridge is crucial. It allows the flavors to combine beautifully!
Always taste and adjust your seasoning with salt and pepper before serving. Enjoying this dish cold makes it even better!
Delicious Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp dill pickle juice
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Sandwiches:
- 4 to 6 sandwich rolls or buns
- Additional dill pickle slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and then another 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So in total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Chicken Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt (if you choose to add it). Stir everything together well until it’s blended and creamy.
2. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, mix in the chopped dill pickles, dill pickle juice, red onion, and fresh dill. Keep stirring until all the ingredients are combined evenly. This will give your salad a deliciously tangy flavor!
3. Season and Chill:
Now, taste your chicken salad and add salt and pepper to your liking. Once seasoned, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors mix beautifully.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches:
When you’re ready to serve, take your sandwich rolls and scoop a generous amount of the dill pickle chicken salad onto the bottom half of each roll. It should be loaded with flavor!
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, add some extra dill pickle slices on top of the chicken salad. Then place the top half of the roll on and your sandwiches are ready! Serve immediately or keep them in the fridge until it’s time to eat. Enjoy your tasty Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option, or even leftover grilled or baked chicken. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and shredded or diced before mixing it into the salad for the best flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use avocado or hummus in place of mayonnaise. Greek yogurt can also work on its own for a lighter, tangy flavor without mayonnaise.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the rolls fresh. If you already made sandwiches, try to consume them within 1 day for the best texture!
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop. Just remember to cover it tightly to prevent any odors from other foods in the fridge affecting the taste.
