This Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwich is a fun twist on a classic! Packed with tender chicken, crunchy pickles, and creamy mayo, it’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Who knew pickles could make chicken salad so exciting? I love spreading it on bread with some lettuce. It’s like a little party in each bite! 🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or any leftover cooked chicken works well. Canned chicken can be a great time-saver too. Just make sure to drain it well!
Dill Pickles: Dill pickles add a nice crunch. If you’re not a fan of pickles, try using chopped celery for crunch and maybe a splash of pickle juice for flavor.
Mayo: Mayonnaise adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute that gives a tangy taste. I sometimes mix half mayo and half yogurt for a balance!
Red Onion: If red onion is too strong for you, try using green onions or chives for a milder flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Chicken for This Salad?
Starting with good quality, shredded or chopped chicken is key. If you’re cooking chicken specifically for this salad, boil or roast it in advance. Here’s a quick method:
- For boiled chicken, place breast pieces in a pot, cover with water, add salt and pepper, and simmer for 15-20 mins.
- For roasted chicken, season with your favorite spices and roast at 375°F (190°C) until it reaches 165°F (75°C), about 25-30 mins.
- Once cooked, let it cool slightly and then shred it using two forks or chop with a knife.
Having tender chicken is essential for a smooth salad, so don’t rush this step!
How to Make Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Flavorings:
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or 1 tsp dried dill
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 sandwich buns or bread rolls
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you’d like to chill the salad for enhanced flavor, add an additional 30 minutes. Overall, you’re looking at just under an hour from start to delicious sandwich!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, chopped dill pickles, and finely chopped red onion. This is where all the flavors start to come together!
2. Adding the Creamy Elements:
Next, add in the mayonnaise, fresh or dried dill, optional Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. This mixture is crucial as it binds everything and gives that creamy texture. Mix everything well until completely combined.
3. Seasoning It Right:
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in some salt and pepper according to your taste. If you want, feel free to adjust the amounts of mayonnaise or pickles depending on how creamy or tangy you’d like it to be!
4. Preparing the Buns:
Take your sandwich buns and cut them in half. If you’re using lettuce leaves, lay them on the bottom half of each bun for a nice crunch and freshness.
5. Assembling the Sandwich:
Spoon a generous amount of your dill pickle chicken salad mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Make sure it’s nicely piled up for the tastiest bite!
6. Finishing Touches:
Add a few extra pickle slices on top for that perfect crunch and flavor boost.
7. Serve or Chill:
Put the top halves of the buns on to close the sandwiches and enjoy them right away! If you want to wait a bit, chill the chicken salad for about 30 minutes before assembling for an even tastier experience.
Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and super easy dill pickle chicken salad sandwich that’s sure to be a hit at any meal or gathering!
FAQ About Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwich
Can I Use Canned Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned chicken can be a great time-saver. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing it in with the other ingredients. It will still give you that tasty chicken flavor!
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
The dill pickle chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that it may get a bit more flavorful as it sits, so it’s great for make-ahead meals!
Can I Freeze This Chicken Salad?
It’s best not to freeze chicken salad with mayo-based dressings; they can separate and become watery once thawed. However, you can freeze just the cooked chicken and mix the salad fresh later if you want to save time!
What Can I Serve with These Sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair well with a variety of sides! Try serving them with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or some crunchy chips for a complete meal. They also make a great picnic or potluck dish!
