If you’re looking for a quick and tasty lunch, these Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches are a winner! They mix juicy chicken with creamy mayo and zesty dill pickles for a crunch.
Honestly, who wouldn’t love biting into a sandwich loaded with flavor? I often serve it with chips on the side. Easy peasy and oh-so-yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for ease, or poach chicken breasts for a healthier option. Shredding or dicing helps mix everything better, but feel free to leave the chicken in larger pieces if that’s your preference.
Dill Pickles: Dill pickles are a must for this recipe. However, if you’re not a fan, you can swap them for sweet pickles or even diced celery for crunch without the tang. You could also use pickle relish if that’s handy!
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative, adding creaminess and protein. If you’re watching calories, stick with it. Otherwise, traditional mayonnaise gives a richer flavor; you can blend both for the best of both worlds.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice bite. If they are too strong for you, consider green onions or shallots. For a milder flavor, soak the chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before using.
Fresh Dill: While fresh dill adds a lovely touch, dried dill will work just fine in a pinch. Use about a teaspoon of dried dill if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Mix Everything for the Best Flavor?
Mixing is easier than you might think! Start by combining the shredded chicken, diced pickles, onion, and fresh dill in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt (or mayonnaise) with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Ensure the yogurt/mayonnaise mix is smooth before adding it to the chicken mixture to create a creamy texture.
- Add the dressing gradually, mixing until everything is well coated. This helps you control how creamy you want your salad.
- Taste the mix before assembling the sandwiches; adjust with more seasoning if necessary. Balancing flavors is key to making it delicious!
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, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
For Assembly:
- 4-6 sandwich rolls or slider buns
- Additional dill pickles for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a light lunch or a snack. Just whip up the chicken salad and assemble the sandwiches—you’re ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Salad Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced dill pickles, finely chopped red onion, and fresh dill (if you’re using it). Mix these ingredients together until they’re well combined.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Take a moment to taste the mixture and add more salt and pepper if needed.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches:
To put together the sandwiches, take the bottom half of each sandwich roll and scoop a generous amount of the chicken salad on top. Then, place the other half of the roll on top. If you’d like, serve with additional dill pickles on the side.
5. Enjoy!
Your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches are ready to serve! Enjoy them as a delicious meal or snack any time of the day.
Can I Use Leftover Roast Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken is perfect for this salad. Just shred or dice the chicken as directed in the recipe. It will add extra flavor to your salad, making it even more delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with mayonnaise, sour cream, or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Just keep in mind that using mayo will make the salad a bit richer in flavor.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken salad mixture up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just make sure to assemble the sandwiches right before serving to keep the rolls fresh and prevent them from getting soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have assembled sandwiches, it’s best to separate the chicken salad from the rolls to keep them fresh. This way, you can enjoy great-tasting leftovers!
