Get ready to revolutionize your lunch game with the most addictive chicken salad you've ever tasted! Imagine the classic creamy chicken salad, but with a bold, zesty punch that'll make your taste buds dance. Our Dill Pickle Chicken Salad isn't just another recipe – it's a flavor explosion that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, or a protein-packed meal prep option, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, place the shredded cooked chicken, ensuring it is cool and well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Finely chop the dill pickles into small, uniform pieces to distribute their tangy flavor evenly throughout the salad.
- Mince the red onion into very fine, delicate pieces to provide a sharp, crisp accent without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Add the chopped pickles and red onion to the chicken in the mixing bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined, creating a creamy and slightly tangy dressing.
- Pour the mayonnaise and mustard mixture over the chicken, pickles, and onions, gently folding to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season the chicken salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with fresh chopped dill for added aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve chilled as a sandwich filling, on a bed of greens, or with crackers for a versatile and delicious meal.
Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken or freshly grilled chicken for the best flavor and texture.
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped celery alongside the pickles.
- Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Choose high-quality dill pickles for maximum tangy flavor – homemade or artisan pickles work best.
- Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard to control the level of tanginess.
- For a gourmet touch, use fresh dill instead of dried herbs when garnishing.
- This salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg