Creamy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe You’ll Love

Posted on November 23, 2025

creamy dill pickle chicken salad - featured image

Let me tell you, the first time I made this creamy dill pickle chicken salad sandwich, I was completely transported. The tangy crunch of dill pickles, the succulent bites of shredded chicken, and the creamy dressing—all tucked into a soft sandwich roll—created a flavor explosion that I couldn’t get enough of. It’s the kind of recipe that instantly makes you pause, close your eyes, and savor every bite. Honestly, this sandwich feels like pure comfort wrapped in nostalgia, and I wouldn’t blame you if it became your new favorite lunch idea.

This recipe came to life during one of those “clean out the fridge” moments when I had leftover chicken and a jar of pickles staring at me. With a little experimenting (and a lot of taste-testing), I landed on a combination that my family couldn’t stop raving about. My kids kept asking for seconds, and my husband even packed one for work the next day—a sure sign of success! So, whether you’re looking for a quick weekday lunch, a picnic-perfect bite, or a dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe checks all the boxes.

If you’ve got a soft spot for tangy, savory flavors and crave a hearty sandwich, you’re going to want to bookmark this one. Trust me—it’s dangerously easy, incredibly delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this creamy dill pickle chicken salad sandwich recipe that’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy shopping trips required—you probably already have most of the ingredients in your fridge or pantry.
Unbeatable Flavor: The combination of tangy dill pickles, creamy dressing, and tender chicken creates a sandwich filling that’s utterly irresistible.
Versatile: Whether you serve it on soft rolls, crispy toast, or lettuce wraps, this chicken salad is endlessly adaptable.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family lunches—kids and adults alike will love it.

What really sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors. The creaminess of the dressing is perfectly offset by the tang and crunch of the pickles, while the seasoning ties it all together. Plus, you can easily tweak it to suit your tastes—whether that means adding extra spices, swapping the bread, or making it low-carb. It’s not just good; it’s the kind of recipe that makes you go back for seconds (or thirds!).

What Ingredients You Will Need

This creamy dill pickle chicken salad sandwich recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even leftover roasted chicken.
Dill pickles, diced: The star ingredient! Choose your favorite variety for that signature tangy crunch.
Mayonnaise: For creamy richness. You can use light mayo or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle zing and depth to the dressing.
Fresh dill, chopped: Enhances the pickle flavor and adds freshness.
Celery, finely chopped: For added crunch and texture.
Red onion, diced: Optional, but adds a sharp, savory kick.
Salt and pepper: To taste—seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors.
Sandwich rolls or bread: Choose soft rolls, crusty baguettes, or even whole-grain bread, depending on your preference.

Feel free to substitute where needed—for instance, swap mayonnaise with avocado-based mayo or use chopped green onions instead of red onion. This recipe is flexible enough to make it your own!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl works perfectly for combining the chicken salad ingredients.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping the pickles, celery, onion, and fresh dill.
Measuring spoons: For precise amounts of mustard, mayo, salt, and pepper.
Fork or spoon: For mixing everything together smoothly.
Toaster or oven: Optional—if you prefer your sandwich roll lightly toasted.

If you don’t have a mixing bowl handy, you can even use a large storage container for easy preparation and cleanup. For toasting the bread, a simple frying pan works just as well as a toaster.

Preparation Method

Prep the ingredients: Start by shredding or dicing your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice the dill pickles, celery, and red onion, and chop the fresh dill.
Make the dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine the salad: Add the chicken, pickles, celery, onion, and dill to the bowl with the dressing. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust: Taste your chicken salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or dill to suit your palate.
Prepare the bread: If desired, toast your sandwich rolls or bread for a golden, crispy edge. (This step is optional but highly recommended!)
Assemble the sandwich: Spoon the chicken salad generously onto your bread or rolls. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Pro tip: If your chicken salad feels too dry, add a little extra mayo or a splash of pickle juice to loosen it up. For extra crunch, you can sprinkle crushed potato chips on top before serving!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Use fresh dill: Fresh dill makes a world of difference in flavor. If you’re using dried dill, reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
Shred the chicken: Shredding the chicken instead of dicing creates a more tender texture and helps the dressing cling to every bite.
Chill before serving: If you have time, refrigerate the chicken salad for 30 minutes before assembling your sandwich. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Don’t skimp on pickles: The dill pickles are the heart of this recipe, so make sure to use a generous amount for that tangy crunch.
Toast the bread: A lightly toasted sandwich roll adds warmth and texture, complementing the creamy filling perfectly.

Remember, cooking is all about adjusting and experimenting—don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to your liking!

Variations & Adaptations

Low-carb option: Skip the bread and serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for a zesty kick.
Vegetarian swap: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version of this recipe.
Seasonal adaptations: In the summer, add diced cucumber for extra freshness. In winter, mix in dried cranberries for a pop of sweetness.
Cheesy addition: Layer a slice of sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese onto the sandwich for added richness.

I’ve tried swapping out the chicken for shredded turkey after Thanksgiving, and it was just as delicious. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

For serving, these sandwiches are best enjoyed slightly chilled or at room temperature. Pair them with classic potato chips, a side salad, or even a pickle spear for a complete meal. If you’re feeling fancy, serve them with sparkling water or iced tea for a refreshing combo.

To store, place any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’re prepping ahead, keep the salad separate from the bread to avoid sogginess. Reheat the bread lightly before assembling if you prefer a warm sandwich.

As the chicken salad sits, the flavors deepen—making it even tastier the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Calories: 350-400 (depends on bread choice)
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 25-30g
Fat: 15-20g

The key ingredients bring their own health benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while dill pickles are low in calories and packed with flavor. Celery adds crunch and fiber, and fresh dill offers antioxidant properties. If you’re using Greek yogurt instead of mayo, you’ll get an extra boost of probiotics!

Conclusion

This creamy dill pickle chicken salad sandwich recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and packed with unforgettable flavor. Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch, preparing for a picnic, or just looking for a satisfying meal, this recipe hits all the marks.

Here’s to delicious meals, happy memories, and sandwiches that make your taste buds dance!

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken? Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, but freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken will give the salad a better texture.
What’s the best bread for this sandwich? Soft rolls, brioche buns, or even whole-grain bread are great options. Toasting adds extra flavor!
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the chicken salad up to two days ahead but keep it separate from the bread until ready to serve.
How can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free bread or serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps instead.
Can I freeze leftover chicken salad? It’s not recommended as the mayo-based dressing may separate when thawed.

Pin This Recipe!

creamy dill pickle chicken salad recipe