Tangy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad:
Are you searching for a satisfying and easy-to-make lunch option that bursts with flavor? Meet your new favorite dish: Tangy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad. This creamy, crunchy salad is a dream come true for pickle lovers. Packed with tender shredded chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free (with a customizable option), and a versatile meal-prep superstar.
Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich filling, a lettuce wrap, or paired with your favorite crackers, this recipe will keep your taste buds excited and your meal routine fresh.
Why This Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Will Be Your Go-To Lunch:
1. Endlessly Adaptable
This salad fits perfectly in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or as a side with crackers. Add it to your favorite bread for a comforting bite or scoop it onto crisp butter lettuce for a light, healthy twist.
2. Meal Prep-Friendly
Make a batch ahead of time and have a delicious, ready-to-go lunch all week. It’s great for busy schedules or when you’re aiming to eat clean without hassle.
3. Bursting with Flavor
The tanginess of dill pickles and brine, the creaminess of the dressing, and the crunch of fresh veggies come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Tangy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad:
Each ingredient in this salad plays a crucial role in creating a balanced, flavor-packed dish:
1. Creamy Base
- Coconut Yogurt: For a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt adds creaminess without compromising flavor. Try brands like Culina for the best results.
- Greek Yogurt (Optional): If you’re not avoiding dairy, Greek yogurt provides a protein-packed alternative.
2. Flavor Boosters
- Mayonnaise: Choose your favorite mayo brand for added richness.
- Pickle Brine: The secret ingredient that enhances the tangy pickle flavor.
3. Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for balance. If you’re following an AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) diet, skip the pepper.
4. Protein Base
- Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience, but homemade chicken is equally delicious.
5. Crunchy Veggies
- Dill Pickles: Chopped for maximum flavor bursts.
- Celery: Adds crunch and freshness.
- Red Onion & Green Onion: Layers of mild spiciness and vibrant color.
6. Herbs
- Fresh Dill: Brings out the dill pickle flavor in every bite.
How to Prepare Tangy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad:
Making this salad is as easy as 1-2-3!
Step 1: Whisk Up the Dressing
In a bowl, combine your coconut yogurt, mayonnaise, pickle brine, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended. This zesty dressing will coat every ingredient perfectly.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, chopped pickles, celery, red onion, green onion, and fresh dill. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon your chicken salad into lettuce wraps, layer it between slices of bread for a hearty sandwich, or pair it with crunchy crackers for a quick snack.
Tips for Perfecting Your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad:
1. Make It Your Own
- Use Greek yogurt if you want a higher protein option and don’t need a dairy-free alternative.
- Adjust the amount of pickle brine to suit your taste.
2. Save Time with Rotisserie Chicken
Shredding a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy shortcut.
3. Mix It Up
Experiment with how you serve the salad. Try it in a wrap, on top of a salad, or stuffed into hollowed-out cucumbers for a refreshing twist.
4. Store Smartly
Keep the salad fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.
Tangy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe:
This Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a healthy, low-carb alternative to classic chicken salad. Enjoy it as a dip, sandwich filling, or salad topping for a tangy, creamy treat!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut yogurt (or substitute with Greek yogurt if not dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons pickle brine
- Salt and pepper to taste (omit pepper for AIP)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup chopped dill pickles
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Instructions;
- In a small bowl, whisk together coconut yogurt, mayonnaise, pickle brine, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped dill pickles, celery, red onion, green onion, and fresh dill.
- Pour the yogurt-mayo dressing over the chicken mixture and toss well to combine.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
- Serve in lettuce wraps, as a sandwich, or with your favorite crackers.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 225
- Fat: 13.4g
- Carbohydrates: 5.8g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Protein: 18.4g