If you love bold flavors and easy meals, this chicken salad with pickles is for you. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of crunch. The pickles add a zesty twist that takes this classic dish to the next level. Whether you’re meal prepping, making sandwiches, or hosting a picnic—this recipe fits perfectly. Keep reading to learn how to make it in just a few simple steps.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad Recipe With Pickles
This pickle chicken salad stands out for its bold flavor and satisfying crunch. Here’s what makes it a favorite:
- Flavor-packed: Dill pickles add a tangy, briny punch that perfectly balances the creamy dressing and tender chicken.
- Quick and easy: You only need a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weekdays or last-minute meals.
- Great texture: Crunchy pickles, juicy chicken, and creamy dressing combine for a rich, layered bite every time.
- Customizable: Use rotisserie chicken, add celery or red onion, or swap in a spicy pickle—this recipe is flexible to your taste.
- Perfect for any occasion: Serve it in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or over greens. It works for lunch, dinner, picnics, or potlucks.
- Make-ahead friendly: It tastes even better after chilling, so you can prep it in advance and store it easily.
Essential Ingredients for Pickle Chicken Salad
To make a delicious and creamy chicken salad with pickles, you only need a few simple, flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in bringing out the tangy, savory taste that sets this recipe apart.
Main Ingredients:
Cooked Chicken (2–3 cups, shredded or chopped)
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own. Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work best.
Dill Pickles (½–1 cup, finely chopped)
The star ingredient! Use crunchy dill pickles for that sharp, briny kick. You can adjust the amount based on your taste.
Mayonnaise (½ cup)
This forms the creamy base. For a lighter option, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or a blend of both.
Celery (1–2 stalks, finely diced)
Adds freshness and crunch to balance the creamy texture.
Red Onion (2–3 tablespoons, finely diced – optional)
Provides a bit of sharpness and color. If you prefer a milder taste, soak in cold water before adding.
Dressing Ingredients:
Dill Pickle Juice (1–2 tablespoons)
Adds extra pickle flavor and thins the dressing slightly. Use more or less depending on how tangy you like it.
Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon)
Gives a subtle tang and depth to the dressing.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Season to your preference—keep in mind that pickles and pickle juice are already salty.
Fresh Dill (1 tablespoon, chopped – optional)
For added herby flavor and freshness.
Tools & Equipment You’ll Need
Making chicken salad with pickles doesn’t require fancy kitchen tools, but having the right equipment will make the process smoother and quicker. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
You’ll need these for chopping chicken, pickles, celery, onions, and herbs. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and saves time.
Mixing Bowls
Use a large bowl to combine all ingredients and a small one to mix the dressing (if mixing separately). Stainless steel or glass bowls work well.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements help balance the flavors—especially with ingredients like mayo, pickle juice, and mustard.
Mixing Spoon or Silicone Spatula
To combine everything gently without breaking down the chicken or over-mixing the salad.
Forks or Meat Shredder (if using cooked chicken breast)
For shredding cooked chicken quickly and evenly.
Optional but Helpful:
- Salad Spinner: If you’re adding lettuce or greens as a serving base.
- Storage Containers: Airtight containers help keep leftovers fresh in the fridge.
- Serving Scoop or Ice Cream Scoop: Great for evenly portioning chicken salad onto sandwiches or lettuce wraps.
How to Make Chicken Salad with Pickles – Step-by-Step
This chicken salad comes together in minutes once your ingredients are prepped. Follow these easy steps for a creamy, flavorful result every time.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Cook the chicken if you’re not using pre-cooked or rotisserie. Boil, roast, or grill until fully cooked, then let it cool slightly. Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the pickles, celery, red onion (if using), and fresh dill.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 tablespoons pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- A pinch of salt and black pepper, to taste
Tip: Adjust the consistency by adding a bit more pickle juice or mayo depending on how creamy or tangy you like it.
Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, add:
- The shredded chicken
- The chopped pickles
- The celery, onion, and fresh dill (if using)
Pour the dressing over the ingredients and gently mix until everything is well-coated.
Step 4: Chill for Best Flavor
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and develop. It tastes even better the next day!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve chilled on sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or with crackers. Scroll down for serving suggestions and variations to try.
Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture
To make your chicken salad with pickles truly stand out, keep these expert tips in mind. They’ll help you get the perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and tang every time.
Use High-Quality Pickles
Choose crisp dill pickles with bold flavor. Refrigerated pickles (like kosher dills or garlic dills) often have a fresher, crunchier bite compared to shelf-stable varieties.
Don’t Overmix
Gently fold the dressing into the ingredients to avoid turning the chicken mushy. Overmixing can break down the texture.
Balance the Creaminess
Start with less mayo or pickle juice than the recipe calls for, then add more as needed. This helps you control the texture and avoid an overly wet salad.
Chill Before Serving
Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes gives the flavors time to meld. It’ll taste even better after a few hours.
Add Texture with Fresh Ingredients
Crispy celery, red onions, or chopped nuts (like slivered almonds) can add an extra layer of crunch if desired.
Season Last
Taste the salad after mixing and chilling before adjusting the salt. Pickles and pickle juice are already salty—adding more too early can overpower the dish.
Use Leftover or Rotisserie Chicken
It saves time and gives the salad more flavor, especially if the chicken is well-seasoned or roasted.
Dice Ingredients Evenly
Uniform pieces of chicken and chopped vegetables make the salad more enjoyable to eat and better-looking when served.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about chicken salad with pickles is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs, adding extra flavor, or using what you have on hand, here are some tasty variations and smart substitutions to try:
Protein Variations
- Rotisserie Chicken: A great shortcut that adds extra flavor and saves time.
- Canned Chicken: A quick pantry option—just drain well and shred before using.
- Grilled or Smoked Chicken: Adds a slightly charred or smoky flavor that pairs well with dill pickles.
- Turkey: Works just as well if you want a leaner protein or have Thanksgiving leftovers.
Dressing Substitutes
- Greek Yogurt: Swap some or all of the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich version.
- Sour Cream: Adds a tangy edge and can replace mayo partially or entirely.
- Avocado Mayo or Vegan Mayo: Great for dairy-free or egg-free diets.
Pickle Options
- Bread and Butter Pickles: For a slightly sweeter salad.
- Spicy Pickles or Jalapeño Pickles: Adds heat for those who like a little kick.
- Pickle Relish: A smoother texture if you don’t want diced pickles.
Add-Ins for Extra Crunch or Flavor
- Chopped Red Apple: Adds sweetness and contrast.
- Chopped Hard-Boiled Eggs: Makes the salad more filling and creamy.
- Grated Carrot: Adds a pop of color and light sweetness.
- Sunflower Seeds or Sliced Almonds: Adds crunch and a nutty note.
- Cheddar or Feta Cheese: For a richer, tangy bite.
Low-Carb / Keto Friendly Adjustments
Use full-fat mayo or avocado oil-based dressing. Avoid sweet pickles or relish. Serve in lettuce wraps or cucumber boats instead of bread.
Spice It Up
Add crushed red pepper, hot sauce, or a spoonful of horseradish to the dressing for bold flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Chicken salad with pickles is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways—from quick lunches to party platters. Here are the best ways to serve and pair it:
Classic Sandwiches
Serve on toasted sandwich bread, croissants, or soft rolls. Add lettuce, tomato, or a slice of cheese for extra texture and flavor. Try it on rye or pumpernickel for a tangy twist.
Lettuce Wraps or Salad Bowls
Scoop the salad into romaine, butter, or iceberg lettuce leaves for a light, low-carb option. Serve over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a hearty salad bowl.
Crackers or Toast Points
Perfect for appetizers, snacking, or a party tray. Serve with buttery crackers, bagel chips, or pita crisps.
Stuffed Veggies
Fill cucumber boats, bell pepper halves, or avocado halves with the chicken salad for a colorful and fresh presentation.
In a Wrap or Tortilla
Roll it up in a tortilla or flatbread with lettuce and shredded carrot for a quick lunch wrap. Slice into pinwheels for a party-friendly option.
As a Side or Main Dish
Pair it with a cup of soup (like tomato or vegetable) for a comforting meal. Serve alongside fresh fruit, pasta salad, or coleslaw at picnics or BBQs.
With Breads or Pastries
Try it with mini croissants, brioche buns, or English muffins for brunch-style serving. Great for tea parties, baby showers, or lunch gatherings.
Is Chicken Salad Healthy? Nutrition Breakdown
Chicken salad with pickles can be a healthy and balanced option, depending on the ingredients you use. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand its nutritional value and how to make it even better for your needs.
High in Protein
Chicken is a lean source of protein, which supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer. One serving (about 1 cup) can provide 20–30 grams of protein, especially if you use white meat like chicken breast.
Healthy Fats (with the Right Dressing)
Mayonnaise is high in fat, but you can use lighter options like Greek yogurt, avocado mayo, or a yogurt-mayo blend to reduce calories and saturated fat. Fats help with nutrient absorption and give the salad its creamy texture—just choose your sources wisely.
Low in Carbs (Great for Low-Carb/Keto Diets)
The base recipe contains minimal carbohydrates—mainly from pickles and optional add-ins like celery or onion. Skip bread or crackers and serve in lettuce wraps or cucumber boats for a keto-friendly version.
Low in Sugar
Dill pickles typically have little to no sugar, unlike sweet pickles or relish. This makes the salad more suitable for low-sugar or diabetic-friendly diets.
Customizable for Dietary Needs
- Dairy-Free? Use mayo instead of Greek yogurt.
- Low-Calorie? Use reduced-fat yogurt or half-mayo/half-yogurt.
- Whole30 or Paleo? Choose compliant mayo and skip any processed add-ins.
Estimated Nutrition (per 1-cup serving, using mayo-based dressing):
- Calories: 250–350
- Protein: 22–30g
- Fat: 18–25g
- Carbs: 2–5g
- Fiber: 0–1g
- Sugar: <1g
(These values vary based on the exact ingredients and serving size.)
How to Store Leftovers Properly
Storing your chicken salad with pickles the right way helps preserve its freshness, flavor, and safety. Follow these tips to keep it tasting its best for days.
Use an Airtight Container
Transfer the chicken salad to a clean, airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge. Avoid metal containers, as they can alter the taste—opt for glass or BPA-free plastic.
Refrigerate Promptly
Place the salad in the fridge within 2 hours of making it. Leaving it out too long can encourage bacterial growth, especially with mayo-based dressings.
Ideal Storage Time
Chicken salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. After that, the texture may become watery, and the flavor may deteriorate.
Stir Before Serving Again
Some liquid from the dressing or pickles may separate during refrigeration. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.
Can You Freeze It?
Freezing is not recommended. Mayonnaise and yogurt-based dressings tend to separate and become grainy when thawed. For best results, enjoy your chicken salad fresh or refrigerated.
Keep it Cold for On-the-Go Meals
If you’re packing the salad for lunch, use an insulated lunch bag with an ice pack to keep it cold and safe until you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
Chicken salad with pickles is a flavorful twist on a classic favorite—creamy, tangy, and full of texture. Whether you’re making it for lunch, meal prep, or a casual gathering, this recipe delivers bold taste with simple ingredients. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and always satisfying. Give it a try, and you just might find it becomes your go-to chicken salad recipe.
FAQS
Chicken Salad Recipe With Pickles
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken, onions and chopped pickles in a large bowl. In another bowl whisk together the yogurt, mayo, relish, mustard, chives, dill and a big pinch of salt and pepper. Add the mixture to the chicken and pickles and toss well. Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve with toast, on sandwiches, with crackers, in lettuce cups, on salad and more.