Print

Fresh Crunchy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

dill pickle chicken salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A vibrant and tangy chicken salad featuring shredded chicken, crunchy dill pickles, and a creamy, bright dressing. Perfect for quick lunches and easy meal prep with a fresh twist on classic chicken salad.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 300g) cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
  • 3–4 medium-sized dill pickles, chopped (recommend Mt. Olive for crunch)
  • 1/2 cup finely diced celery
  • 2 tablespoons minced red onion (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) mayonnaise (full-fat or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: chopped hard-boiled egg, chopped apple, toasted nuts

Instructions

  1. If starting with raw chicken, poach breasts in simmering water with a pinch of salt for about 15 minutes until cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Let cool, then shred using two forks or chop finely. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
  2. Finely dice dill pickles, celery, and red onion. Chop fresh dill finely to release its flavor.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust for a creamy but tangy dressing with a hint of sweetness.
  4. In a mixing bowl, add shredded chicken, chopped veggies, and fresh dill. Pour dressing over and gently fold until well coated, avoiding overmixing to keep crunch.
  5. Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper gradually, tasting as you go. Optionally add extra lemon juice to brighten flavors.
  6. Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and dressing to thicken slightly before serving.

Notes

Use crunchy pickles to maintain salad texture; avoid soggy or soft pickles. Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. Store in airtight containers with a paper towel on top to absorb moisture and keep salad crisp. Salad tastes better after resting overnight. Avoid freezing to maintain texture. Add optional ingredients like hard-boiled eggs or nuts for extra protein and crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken salad, dill pickle, meal prep, quick lunch, healthy chicken salad, creamy dressing, crunchy salad

Find it online: https://chloeplate.com/fresh-crunchy-dill-pickle-chicken-salad-recipe-for-easy-meal-prep-success/