Save Last summer I discovered something magical happens when dill pickles meet chicken salad. I was experimenting with ways to use up an overflowing jar of homemade pickles and ended up creating what has become my absolute favorite light lunch. The crunch, the tang, the way the lettuce cups keep everything feeling fresh and not heavy.
I served these at my sisters bridal shower buffet and watched three guests ask for the recipe within ten minutes. Theres something about the presentation in lettuce cups that makes everyone feel like theyre eating something special, even though it comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
- Chicken: I use rotisserie chicken on busy days but poaching two breasts gives you the most tender results and lets you control the seasoning
- Dill pickles: The star of the show and dont be shy here, choose a brand with good crunch and plenty of dill flavor
- Red onion: Adds just enough bite and color contrast, soak the diced onion in ice water for 10 minutes if raw onion is too intense for you
- Celery: Essential for that classic chicken salad texture and fresh flavor
- Fresh dill: Worth the extra effort over dried, it brightens everything up and ties the pickle flavors together
- Mayonnaise: Use a high quality brand since its a primary flavor carrier
- Greek yogurt: Lightens the dressing and adds a tangy creaminess but you can use all mayo if preferred
- Pickle juice: This is the secret ingredient that makes the dressing sing and ties everything together
- Butter lettuce: The most perfect vessel with its cup shape and delicate crunch, though romaine works in a pinch
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients:
- Chop everything into small, uniform pieces so every bite gets the perfect ratio of chicken to crunchy bits.
- Whisk the dressing:
- Combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, pickle juice, mustard, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and toss:
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and fold gently until everything is coated and the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Taste and adjust:
- This is crucial, add more salt or pickle juice until the flavor pops just right for your palate.
- Assemble the cups:
- Spoon the chicken salad into lettuce leaves just before serving so they stay crisp and dont get soggy.
Save My husband initially turned his nose up at pickle chicken salad but after one bite at a summer picnic, he requested it for his birthday lunch. Sometimes the most unexpected combinations become the ones we cant live without.
Make Ahead Magic
You can prepare the chicken salad up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve with a little time, making this perfect for meal prep or party planning.
Perfect Pairings
This sings alongside chilled white wine or sparkling water with plenty of lemon. For a fuller meal, serve with cucumber slices or tomato salad to keep the fresh vibe going.
Smart Substitutions
Play around with what you have in the fridge and make it your own while keeping the spirit of the recipe alive.
- Swap in chopped walnuts for extra crunch and healthy fats
- Try chopped hard boiled eggs for more protein and classic egg salad vibes
- Use all mayonnaise if you need it dairy free or want a richer version
Save This has become my go to for light lunches and impromptu gatherings. I hope it brings the same refreshing joy to your table.
Kitchen Help
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container. Assemble with lettuce leaves just before serving to keep them crisp.
- → What's the best lettuce to use?
Butter lettuce or romaine hearts work best as they're sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing. Avoid delicate varieties like buttercrunch, which may fall apart.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Replace the Greek yogurt with additional mayonnaise or use dairy-free mayo and skip the yogurt entirely. Check all ingredient labels for hidden dairy products.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken saves time and works perfectly. Simply shred or dice it and proceed with the salad mixture. You'll skip the cooking time entirely.
- → What additions would enhance the texture?
Chopped walnuts, sliced almonds, or diced hard-boiled eggs add wonderful crunch and extra protein. Add them just before serving to maintain texture.
- → Is this compatible with keto diets?
Yes, it's naturally keto-friendly with only 5g carbs per serving. The lettuce cups replace traditional bread, making it an ideal low-carb option.