Save to Pinterest The crunch of a good dill pickle can save almost any dish, and this chicken salad proves it every single time. I stumbled onto this combination during a summer when my oven broke and I refused to turn on any heat-producing appliance. Something about the cool, creamy salad meeting crisp lettuce just clicked, and now it is my go-to for lazy weeknight dinners.
My sister-in-law requested this at every family gathering last summer, and I finally had to write the recipe on a card for her. The way she described it—crunchy, creamy, somehow refreshing despite the mayo—made me realize I had been taking this simple combination for granted. Now it appears on my table at least twice a month.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here, saving you time and adding that slow-roasted flavor
- 1 cup dill pickles: Finely chopped is crucial here, so every bite gets that tangy crunch
- 1/3 cup red onion: The sharp bite balances the creamy dressing perfectly
- 1/4 cup celery: Adds more crunch without competing with the pickle flavor
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill: Fresh herbs make a difference here, though dried works in a pinch
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Real mayo, not Miracle Whip, makes all the difference
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt: Lightens things up while keeping the creaminess
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice: This is the secret ingredient that ties everything together
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds just enough sharpness to cut through the richness
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle backbone that people cannot quite identify
- 8 large butter lettuce leaves: These cups hold the salad beautifully and add their own fresh crunch
Instructions
- Mix the base:
- Toss your chicken, pickles, onion, celery, and fresh dill in a large bowl until everything looks evenly distributed
- Whisk the dressing:
- Combine the mayo, yogurt, pickle juice, mustard, garlic powder, pepper, and salt in a small bowl until smooth
- Bring it together:
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and fold until everything is coated, then taste and adjust the salt
- Assemble the cups:
- Spoon the chicken salad into each lettuce leaf, dividing it evenly among all eight cups
- Choose your timing:
- Serve right away for crunchiest lettuce, or chill the salad first for deeper melded flavors
Save to Pinterest Last summer, I served these at a patio dinner and watched my pickle-hating friend accidentally eat three cups before realizing what she was eating. The look on her face was worth every minute of chopping those tiny pickle cubes.
Make It Your Way
Sometimes I swap in chopped walnuts for extra crunch, or add hard-boiled eggs when I need the protein to go further. The base recipe is forgiving enough that you can play around without breaking anything.
Dairy-Free Option
Omit the Greek yogurt completely and use all mayonnaise. The texture stays luscious and nobody will notice the difference, especially with all that pickle tang happening.
Serving Ideas
These cups work as an appetizer, light lunch, or even dinner alongside a simple soup. I have also served them as part of a spread with other finger foods at parties.
- Pair with sparkling water and a lemon wedge for the perfect refreshment
- Chill your serving platter for 30 minutes to keep lettuce crisp longer
- Set out extra dressing on the side for guests who love extra sauce
Save to Pinterest There is something deeply satisfying about eating with your hands, and these lettuce cups turn an ordinary chicken salad into something that feels playful and special.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken salad up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble the lettuce cups just before serving to keep them crisp.
- → What type of lettuce works best?
Butter lettuce or romaine hearts work wonderfully as they're sturdy enough to hold the filling without wilting. Iceberg or green leaf lettuce are also good alternatives.
- → How do I make this dairy-free?
Simply omit the Greek yogurt and use all mayonnaise instead. Ensure your mayonnaise is egg-free if you have that allergy as well.
- → Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or almonds add crunch, hard-boiled eggs provide extra protein, or diced apple can add a subtle sweetness. Adjust seasonings to your preference.
- → What should I serve this with?
Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, sparkling water with lemon, or a light soup. It also works well alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
- → How long does this keep?
The chicken salad mixture stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep lettuce cups separate and assemble just before eating for best texture.