Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups

Experience a refreshing, protein-packed chicken salad bursting with tangy dill pickles, served in crisp lettuce cups for a light and flavorful meal. This easy American dish is perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner, offering a satisfying crunch and a zesty finish that fits seamlessly into low-carb and gluten-free diets.

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The combination of juicy chicken and crisp vegetables makes this salad a standout. By using fresh dill and a splash of pickle juice in the dressing, you achieve a bright acidity that perfectly complements the creamy mayonnaise and Greek yogurt base.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 2 medium breasts)
• Salad: 1 cup dill pickles (finely chopped), 1/3 cup red onion (finely diced), 1/4 cup celery (finely diced), 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
• Dressing: 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (or more mayo), 1 tablespoon pickle juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, salt to taste
• To Serve: 8 large butter lettuce leaves or romaine hearts

Instructions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken, finely chopped dill pickles, red onion, celery, and fresh dill.

Step 2

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 3

Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. Taste the salad and adjust the salt or pepper as needed.

Step 4

Arrange the butter lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Evenly spoon the chicken salad into the center of each leaf.

Step 5

Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld before assembling.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the fastest preparation, use a rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breasts. Using a chef's knife and a sturdy cutting board will help you get the pickles, onion, and celery into a fine dice, which ensures a consistent texture. If you are prepping ahead, keep the lettuce leaves separate from the chicken salad until right before serving to prevent wilting.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly customizable. Add 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or sliced almonds for an extra layer of crunch, or stir in chopped hard-boiled eggs for an even higher protein count. For a dairy-free version, simply omit the Greek yogurt and use only mayonnaise for the dressing base.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these vibrant lettuce cups as a light main dish for 4 people. They pair beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon. Each serving contains approximately 230 calories, 13g of fat, 5g of carbohydrates, and 22g of protein, making it a balanced and nutritious choice.

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With its bright flavors and simple preparation, these Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups are destined to become a staple in your healthy meal rotation. Enjoy the perfect crunch and tangy satisfaction in every single bite.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken salad mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Assemble the lettuce cups just before serving to maintain crisp leaves. Alternatively, chill the salad for 1 hour after combining for more developed flavors.

→ What lettuce works best for these cups?

Butter lettuce and romaine hearts are ideal choices due to their sturdy, cup-like leaves that hold the filling well. Avoid delicate greens like iceberg, which may tear. Choose large outer leaves for easier serving.

→ How do I make this dairy-free?

Omit the Greek yogurt and use mayonnaise exclusively for the dressing. Ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free if you're avoiding all dairy products. All other ingredients remain the same.

→ Can I substitute the chicken?

Absolutely. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or try canned tuna, salmon, or shrimp for variation. For vegetarian options, use chickpeas or white beans as your protein base.

→ What additions enhance the texture and flavor?

Chopped walnuts or sliced almonds add crunch, while hard-boiled eggs increase protein content. Fresh herbs like tarragon or dill amplify the flavor profile. For extra tang, increase pickle juice or add a splash of apple cider vinegar.

→ Is this dish truly gluten-free?

Yes, this preparation is naturally gluten-free. However, always verify product labels on mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and pickles, as some brands may contain hidden gluten or cross-contamination during processing.