Crunchy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad: Bold, Creamy, and Perfectly Tangy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crunchy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a refreshing twist on classic chicken salad that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It is creamy, tangy, and packed with texture, thanks to crisp pickles and fresh vegetables. I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between richness and brightness. The dill pickles add a sharp, briny bite that cuts through the creamy dressing, making every spoonful interesting and satisfying. I first made this chicken salad when I wanted something quick but not boring, and it immediately became a regular in my meal rotation. It works beautifully for lunches, picnics, meal prep, or light dinners. Served on bread, in a wrap, or over greens, this chicken salad feels modern, flavorful, and dependable.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken
Cooked chicken is the base of the salad. Shredded or finely chopped chicken breast works best for even distribution and a tender bite.

Dill pickles
Dill pickles are the star ingredient. They add crunch, tanginess, and bold flavor that defines this recipe.

Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise creates the creamy foundation of the dressing and binds all the ingredients together.

Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt lightens the dressing while adding subtle tang and extra creaminess.

Celery
Celery adds fresh crunch and balances the richness of the dressing.

Red onion
Red onion provides mild sharpness and color, enhancing both flavor and appearance.

Fresh dill
Fresh dill reinforces the pickle flavor and adds a bright, herbaceous note.

Dijon mustard
Dijon mustard adds depth and a gentle bite that complements the pickles.

Lemon juice
Lemon juice brightens the salad and balances the creamy elements.

Salt
Salt enhances the overall flavor and ties the ingredients together.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds subtle heat and contrast.

Directions

Begin by chopping the cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces and placing it in a large mixing bowl. Finely dice the dill pickles, celery, and red onion, then add them to the bowl with the chicken. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Fold in the fresh dill and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate briefly to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four to six people. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, with optional chilling time of 20 minutes for best flavor.

Storage/reheating

Store crunchy dill pickle chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish is served cold and does not require reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Pickle Chicken Salad
Add chopped pickled jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

Extra Crunch Version
Incorporate chopped almonds or sunflower seeds.

Low-Calorie Option
Use more Greek yogurt and less mayonnaise.

Pickle Juice Boost
Add a small splash of pickle juice for extra tang.

Wrap or Lettuce Cup Style
Serve in wraps or lettuce cups for a lighter meal.

FAQs

What type of pickles work best?

Classic dill pickles provide the best flavor.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works very well.

Is this salad very tangy?

It is balanced, but the tang can be adjusted.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling.

What can I serve it with?

Bread, crackers, wraps, or salad greens.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture.

How do I keep it from getting watery?

Drain pickles well before chopping.

Can I add eggs?

Yes, chopped hard-boiled eggs work well.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, if served without bread.

Can I use dried dill?

Fresh dill is best, but dried can be used sparingly.

Conclusion

Crunchy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that transforms simple ingredients into something bold and satisfying. With its creamy texture, crisp crunch, and tangy finish, it is a reliable recipe for lunches, gatherings, and everyday meals.

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