These Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches are a delightful mix of tender chicken, crunchy pickles, and creamy dressing. Perfectly tasty for lunch or a picnic!
Who knew pickles could bring such fun to a chicken salad? I love how the tangy crunch makes every bite exciting. Grab some bread, and you’re ready for a yummy time!
Making these sandwiches is super easy! Just mix everything together, scoop it onto bread, and enjoy. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and you might get asked for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is perfect here for convenience and flavor. If you have leftover chicken from a previous meal, that works too! You can also substitute with canned chicken or turkey if in a pinch, but the texture might be different.
Mayonnaise: This is crucial for creaminess. If you want a healthier option, Greek yogurt can be used instead. It adds a nice tangy flavor while cutting calories. I personally love mixing it half and half with mayo for a balance of flavor and health.
Dill Pickles: The star ingredient! If you don’t have dill pickles, relishes work as a substitute. For a different flavor, try sweet pickles, just keep in mind it will alter the taste. I prefer a mix of pickles for an extra crunch.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a nice tang! If Dijon is unavailable, yellow mustard will suffice though it’s milder in flavor. You can use a mix of mustard and a bit of vinegar for a similar effect.
Buns: Brioche or Hawaiian rolls are my favorites for their softness and subtle sweetness. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Has Amazing Flavor?
The best way to ensure your chicken salad is bursting with flavor is to allow it to chill. Letting it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors mingle beautifully. Here are some tips to enhance the flavor:
- Make sure to finely chop the dill pickles and red onion for even distribution and nice bites.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! Salt and pepper are key to bringing everything together.
- If you have time, let it chill even longer. Flavors develop more with time.
How to Make Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 to 6 sandwich buns (preferably soft, like brioche or Hawaiian rolls)
- Additional pickle slices for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you will need a total of about 45 minutes before you can enjoy your tasty sandwiches!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Salad Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, finely chopped dill pickles, red onion, chopped dill, and Dijon mustard. Use a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. Make sure you mix it well so each bite has that delicious flavor!
2. Season and Chill:
Once everything is mixed, taste your chicken salad and season with salt and pepper based on your preference. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors come together and taste even better!
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
When you’re ready to eat, take the sandwich buns and slice them in half. Generously scoop the chilled dill pickle chicken salad onto the bottom half of each bun. If you like, add some extra pickle slices on top before placing the top half of the bun down. And that’s it!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches are ready to serve! You can enjoy them right away, or cover them and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to eat. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can use canned chicken for convenience! Just drain it well and break it up before mixing. Keep in mind that you might want to adjust the seasoning slightly since canned chicken can sometimes be a bit saltier.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a healthier substitute. These will add a nice creaminess too, but you may want to add a little extra seasoning to balance the flavors.
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken salad up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re making it for a party, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the buns fresh.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the bun is soggy from the chicken salad, it’s best to keep them separate and assemble sandwiches as needed to maintain freshness.
