These Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches are a tasty treat! Packed with tender chicken, crunchy pickles, and a creamy dressing, they’re perfect for lunch or a picnic.
Who knew pickles could bring so much zing to a sandwich? I love how easy this recipe is—I just mix everything together, spread it on bread, and snack away. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you prefer, leftover cooked chicken works well too. For a lighter version, consider canned chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo is typical, but you can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option or use vegan mayo if you’re avoiding eggs. It gives a similar creaminess with fewer calories.
Dill Pickles: The main flavor booster in this salad! If you don’t have dill pickles, sweet pickles can be used for a different taste, or feel free to chop up some pickled cucumbers or relish.
Dijon Mustard: While optional, Dijon adds a nice tang. If you don’t have any, yellow mustard works as a substitute, or you can skip it entirely for a milder flavor.
Sandwich Rolls: Brioche rolls add a touch of sweetness, but any soft rolls or even lettuce wraps can be used if you’re looking for a low-carb option. Slider buns are great for smaller bites, too!
How Do I Mix the Chicken Salad Perfectly?
Mixing your chicken salad may seem simple, but getting the right balance of flavors is key. Here are some tips to ensure it’s just right:
- Combine the chicken and mayonnaise first, ensuring it’s well-coated. This helps add flavor to the chicken.
- Carefully fold in the dill pickles and other ingredients to keep the chicken from breaking apart too much.
- Always taste as you go. If it’s too thick, add a touch more pickle juice. If it needs more flavor, sprinkle in some salt or pepper.
Adjusting the mix can make a big difference, so don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients until it’s just how you like it!
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 mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches:
- 4 sandwich rolls (such as brioche or slider buns)
- Extra dill pickles for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, so you can have your delicious Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Salad Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with the mayonnaise. Mix it well until the chicken is fully coated with the creamy mayonnaise. This will be the base of your chicken salad!
2. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, add in the finely chopped dill pickles, dill pickle juice, red onion, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Tasting the mixture is a great idea! You can adjust it by adding a little salt and pepper based on your flavor preference.
3. Toast the Rolls (Optional):
If you’d like, cut the sandwich rolls in half and give them a light toast. This adds a nice crunch to your sandwiches, but it’s completely up to you!
4. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spoon some of the dill pickle chicken salad onto the bottom half of each roll. If you like, you can add extra pickles on top for an extra zing of flavor. Then, place the top half of the roll on each sandwich to finish it.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwiches are ready to go! Serve them immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a great time-saver. Just make sure to drain it well before using, as excess liquid can make your chicken salad too runny. Flake it apart with a fork for the best texture!
What if I Don’t Have Dill Pickles?
No worries! You can substitute with sweet pickles or bread-and-butter pickles for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chopped celery or cucumbers can also add a nice crunch without the pickle flavor.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Leftover chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, avoid storing it in the sandwich rolls until you’re ready to eat. Just assemble as needed to prevent the bread from getting soggy!
Can I Make This Chicken Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can make the chicken salad ahead of time! Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will actually meld nicely, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve!
