Why You’ll Love Spicy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Recipe
- Quick and easy to make in just 20 minutes
- Packed with protein and fresh crunchy texture
- Tangy dill pickle flavor with a spicy kick
- Perfect for meal prep and make-ahead lunches
- Versatile serving options for wraps, salads, or crackers
- Lightened up with Greek yogurt
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast or rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, optional
- 1.5 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 cups bagged coleslaw mix
- 1 to 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
- 2 tablespoons dill pickles, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon shallots, finely diced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- If needed, cook the chicken using your preferred method and allow it to cool slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken breasts to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until the chicken is shredded. Alternatively, use a hand mixer or shred the chicken with two forks.
- Add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise if using, Dijon mustard, coleslaw mix, pickled jalapeños, fresh dill, dill pickle juice, diced pickles, and shallots to the bowl.
- Stir everything together until fully combined.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately with crackers, fresh vegetables, on sandwiches, wraps, or over salad greens.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Use canned chicken for an even quicker version.
- Replace Greek yogurt with sour cream for a richer texture.
- Add chopped celery for extra crunch.
- Swap jalapeños for banana peppers if you prefer milder heat.
- Use fresh parsley instead of dill for a different herb flavor.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
Storage/Reheating
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir well before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly over time.
This recipe is best served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
How spicy is this chicken salad?
The spice level is moderate and can easily be adjusted by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
Can I make this recipe without mayonnaise?
Yes, the Greek yogurt provides plenty of creaminess on its own.
What can I serve with spicy dill pickle chicken salad?
It pairs well with crackers, sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or fresh vegetables.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep and tastes even better after chilling.
How long does chicken salad last in the refrigerator?
It will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended because the creamy dressing can separate after thawing.
What type of pickles work best?
Classic dill pickles provide the best tangy flavor for this recipe.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely. Celery, cucumber, or bell peppers make great additions.
Is this recipe low carb?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates, especially when served in lettuce wraps or over salad greens.
Conclusion
This Spicy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a flavorful twist on classic chicken salad with the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, tangy, and spicy. Easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a delicious high-protein option you’ll want to keep in your meal rotation year-round.
