Name: Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 10 1/2 ounces cooked skinless boneless chicken breasts (from 1 whole rotisserie chicken); 2 tablespoons fresh dill; 1 lemon zest and juice; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

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There’s something about a Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill that brings a smile to my face. Perhaps it’s the zesty brightness from the lemon or the refreshing touch of dill that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. I remember the first time I prepared this salad for a picnic; the sun was shining, and I had the perfect company. As we sat on the blanket, the laughter mingling with the aroma of fresh ingredients, I knew this was a recipe I’d cherish forever. Each bite was a reminder of how simple ingredients, when combined harmoniously, can create something truly delightful. It’s not just food; it’s a memory, a moment shared with loved ones, and a celebration of flavors that dance on your palate. Whenever I make this Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill, I feel like I’m inviting a piece of sunshine into my kitchen. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weekdays or laid-back weekends, and the result is always satisfying.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
Cutting Board, Kitchen Knife

What You’ll Enjoy About This Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill

Bright and Zesty Flavor

The combination of lemon and dill is simply magical. The lemon adds a tangy freshness that cuts through the richness of the chicken, while the dill brings an aromatic, herbal note that’s unmistakably refreshing. It’s like spring on a plate, perfect for any occasion.

Easy to Prepare

One of the things I love about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this chicken salad. Just a few straightforward steps, and you have a delicious meal that’s ready to impress. I often find myself making it for quick lunches or light dinners, knowing that it will be a hit every time.

Versatile and Customizable

This Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill is incredibly versatile. You can serve it on a bed of greens, inside a sandwich, or even as a dip with crackers. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily adapt it by adding other ingredients like avocado or nuts for an extra crunch.

Perfect for Any Season

Whether it’s a warm summer day or a cozy winter afternoon, this salad fits right in. It’s refreshing enough for hot days yet comforting enough to enjoy during cooler weather. I often find it on my table for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Healthful and Satisfying

This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also nutritious. The use of skinless boneless chicken breasts makes it a lean protein choice, and the fresh ingredients bring a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Eating this salad feels nourishing, and it’s a great way to incorporate healthy foods into your meals.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to save time during the week, this Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill is a fantastic option. It stores well in the refrigerator, allowing you to make it ahead of time. I often double the recipe, so I have delicious lunches ready to go. Just pack it up, and you’re set!

Ingredient List for Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill

When it comes to creating a delightful Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Each component contributes uniquely to the overall taste and texture. The star of this dish is the chicken, which provides substance, while the dill and lemon infuse a fresh, vibrant essence. The extra virgin olive oil adds richness, and the kosher salt enhances all the flavors beautifully. Together, they create a harmony of taste that’s simply irresistible.

10 1/2 ounces cooked skinless boneless chicken breasts: This is the main ingredient, offering a lean protein source that is both satisfying and nutritious. I prefer using rotisserie chicken for convenience, but you can also grill or poach your own.
2 tablespoons fresh dill: The fresh dill adds a delightful herbaceous flavor that brightens the salad. Always opt for fresh over dried for the best taste.
Zest and juice of 1 lemon: The lemon not only adds acidity but also a lovely fragrance. The zest provides an intense lemon flavor, while the juice enlivens the entire dish.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: This adds richness to the salad and helps to meld the flavors together beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, making every bite more delicious.

Directions for Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill

Making this Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill is as easy as pie! Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a refreshing meal ready in no time. Let’s dive right in!

First, take your rotisserie chicken and carefully remove the chicken legs, wings, and thighs. Set them aside for another meal. I love saving parts for soups or sandwiches later!
Next, focus on the chicken breasts. Remove the skin and bones, and then shred the meat into bite-sized chunks. You can use your hands or a knife for this step, depending on what you prefer.
Once you have your shredded chicken, transfer it to a large bowl. This is where all the magic will happen!
Add in the fresh dill, lemon juice, and lemon zest. The aroma alone at this point will have you excited!
Pour in the extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle the kosher salt over everything. This is the moment where all the flavors will mix beautifully.
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the lemon and dill mixture.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delightful.
When you’re ready to eat, give the salad another gentle toss. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a bit more lemon or dill, feel free to add it!
Serve the salad on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers. Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill!

Things Worth Knowing

Using Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds flavor. Look for high-quality, seasoned rotisserie chickens for the best taste.
Fresh Herbs: Always opt for fresh herbs like dill for maximum flavor. If using dried, reduce the quantity as dried herbs are more potent.
Chilling Time: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavor. If you’re in a hurry, even 15 minutes will help, but longer is better.
Custom Additions: Feel free to mix in some extras like chopped celery or nuts for added crunch and texture!

Making Adjustments

Every cook knows that flexibility is key in the kitchen, and the Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill is no exception. Here are some tips to make this recipe your own:

Storage: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It lasts for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this salad as the texture of the chicken and dill won’t hold up well after thawing.
Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with fresh bread, pita chips, or a simple green salad. It’s also great for brunch!
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Make it a Meal: To turn this salad into a more filling dish, serve it with quinoa or brown rice on the side.

Serving Ideas for Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill

Serving your Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill can be as creative as you desire! Here are some ideas that will elevate your serving game:

On a Bed of Greens: Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a refreshing light meal.
In a Sandwich: Spread the salad between two slices of whole-grain bread for a hearty sandwich that’s perfect for lunch.
With Crackers: Pair it with whole grain or gluten-free crackers for a delightful snack or appetizer.
For Picnics: This salad is a fantastic option for picnics. Pack it along with some fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
At Gatherings: Bring it to potlucks or family gatherings as a unique contribution that everyone will love.
Seasonal Variations: During the summer, think about serving it with fresh fruit salads or light pasta dishes.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time and reduce food waste. Just make sure it’s shredded or cubed into bite-sized pieces for the best texture. The flavor of the Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill will still shine through, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

The Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days if stored in an airtight container. It’s perfect for meal prepping! Just give it a good stir before serving to mix the flavors again, and you’ll be ready to enjoy it once more.

Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can add ingredients like diced celery, chopped apples, or even nuts for a crunchy texture. Just remember to keep the proportions balanced so that the flavors of the lemon and dill still come through.

Yes, the Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill is naturally gluten-free! Just be cautious with the type of bread or crackers you might choose to serve with it. Opt for gluten-free options if you need to avoid gluten completely.

Conclusion

The Chicken Salad with Lemon and Dill is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Its simplicity in preparation combined with the freshness of the ingredients makes it a must-try recipe. I encourage you to give it a go and share it with your loved ones. I promise it will become a favorite!