If you love bold flavors and easy-to-make meals, this Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is an absolute must-try. It combines tender, juicy chicken with the tang of dill pickles, fresh herbs, and a creamy dressing that balances flavors perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a family-friendly dinner, or a snack to serve at a gathering, this salad hits all the right notes.
For a bright twist on traditional chicken salad, try this Lemon Basil Chicken Salad next.
Dill Pickle Chicken Salad served on a buttery croissant makes for a simple yet indulgent meal that everyone will enjoy.
Why This Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Works
Chicken salad is already a favorite for many, but adding dill pickles elevates it with a tangy crunch that keeps each bite exciting. The herbs bring a freshness that balances the richness of the creamy dressing, while the combination of mayo and sour cream creates a smooth texture that clings beautifully to the chicken and pickles.
This recipe is versatile, kid-friendly, and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.
How to Make This Chicken Salad Family-Approved
I wanted something that everyone in the family would enjoy, so I combined our favorite ingredients—rotisserie chicken, pickles, fresh herbs—with a simple, creamy dressing. It was a hit the first time I served it on buttery croissants, and it also worked wonderfully on cucumber slices for a quick snack or appetizer.
The key is preparing the ingredients before mixing. Dice the chicken, chop the herbs, and prep the pickles so assembly is quick and effortless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dressing:
- Sour Cream: Adds a tangy creaminess.
- Mayonnaise: Rich and smooth; full-fat gives the best texture.
- Garlic Powder: Gives a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the dressing and balances the richness.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a gentle, tangy kick.
- Salt and Pepper: Start light, then adjust to taste.
For the Salad:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Already cooked, making prep fast; dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Dill Pickles: Finely diced to add tang and crunch.
- Pickle Relish: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced for a mild onion flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely for brightness.
- Fresh Dill: Enhances the pickle flavor and adds freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Dressing
Start by whisking together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Combine the Ingredients
Add the diced chicken, chopped pickles, pickle relish, green onions, parsley, and dill to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until each ingredient is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
There are so many ways to enjoy this salad:
- On Croissants: Soft, buttery, and classic.
- In Lettuce Wraps: Use romaine or butter lettuce for a light, low-carb option.
- With Crackers: Perfect for a snack or party appetizer.
- Over Mixed Greens: Spoon over arugula or a salad mix for a satisfying lunch.
- On Cucumber Slices: Makes a bite-sized, refreshing snack.
- In Avocado Halves: Scoop the salad into halved avocados for a creamy, filling option.
This salad isn’t just limited to sandwiches—get creative with how you serve it. It works beautifully for meals, snacks, or even casual entertaining.
Tips for the Best Dill Pickle Chicken Salad
- Use Quality Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is convenient, but you can also use cooked, shredded chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Pickles Matter: Choose pickles you love eating on their own. Their flavor will shine through the salad.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 20–30 minutes allows the flavors to meld.
- Adjust Creaminess: Add more mayo or sour cream if you like a creamier texture.
- Fresh Herbs Are Key: Don’t skip dill or parsley—they bring brightness and enhance the pickle flavor.
Tangy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 20 min
Ingredients
1/2 cup sour cream
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Chicken Salad:
3 cups diced rotisserie chicken
1 cup finely diced dill pickles
1/4 cup pickle relish
1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
For Serving (optional):
Croissants
Lettuce leaves
Crackers
Mixed greens
Cucumber slices
Avocado halves
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. - Mix the Salad:
Add diced chicken, pickles, pickle relish, green onions, parsley, and dill to the dressing. Gently fold until all ingredients are coated. - Taste & Adjust:
Taste the salad and add more salt or pepper if needed. - Serve:
Choose your preferred serving method: on croissants, in lettuce wraps, with crackers, over greens, on cucumber slices, or in halved avocados.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Extra Creamy: Add an additional 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or sour cream if you prefer a richer texture.
- Pickle Choice: Use your favorite dill pickles for the best flavor. Sweet pickles will change the taste slightly but still delicious.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill are highly recommended for brightness, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch (reduce quantity by half).
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
