I created this healthy chicken salad recipe with dill pickle flavor by skipping actual pickles and using a seasoning blend instead. Instead of stirring in chopped pickles, I use the seasoning mix to pack every bite with that tangy, garlicky flavor without adding extra moisture. The result is a creamy chicken salad that stays fresh longer, is easier to meal prep, and lets the chicken and fresh herbs shine.
I also gave this classic recipe a lighter makeover by swapping much of the mayonnaise for protein-rich Greek yogurt. That simple change cuts back on calories and saturated fat while adding extra protein, creating a chicken salad that’s just as creamy and satisfying as the traditional version.
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Dill Pickle Chicken Salad Highlights
A few of the things I love about this twist on classic chicken salad include:
- Many chicken salads start out “healthy” but then load in dried fruit, nuts and mayo which all add a lot of calories. This salad keeps it simple and light with fresh herbs and veggies, and adds flavor with a unique dried seasoning and primarily Greek yogurt.
- We skipped using actual diced pickles, which can make the chicken salad watery after sitting for a couple of hours. Instead, the dry herb seasoning gives it that flavor we were after, while maintaining a dreamy creamy texture.
- Great for meal prep because the flavor enhances over time and stays creamy for days. It won’t turn into a watery mess.
- Allows you to get dill pickle flavor in every bite, versus just where the actual pickle pieces are.
Ingredients needed
The star of this dish is of course the dill pickle seasoning, but in second place is my classic shredded chicken recipe!
- 2 cooked and shredded chicken breasts, cooled. This will be about ¾-1 pound depending on the size. My recipe for shredded chicken is ready in under 30 minutes, but if you’re low on time, feel free to use rotisserie chicken.
- 1-2 stalks of celery, thinly sliced.
- 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced.
- About ¼ each chopped parsley and dill.
- ⅓-1/2 cup low-fat Greek yogurt, depending on how “dry” or creamy you want your chicken salad. You may also use 5% or nonfat Greek yogurt, but that will affect the calorie content indicated on the nutrition card.
- 2-3 tablespoons low-fat sour cream. We use this instead of mayo to add creaminess, but keep calories lower.
- 1 tablespoon Dill Pickle Seasoning from Trader Joe’s or another brand available to you. Grill Mates makes a highly rated blend. Adjust seasoning for a more intense flavor by adding more.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Why We use Dill Pickle Seasoning Instead of Chopped Dill pickles
We skipped using actual diced pickles, which can make the chicken salad watery after sitting for a couple of hours. Instead, the dry herb seasoning gives it that flavor we were after, while maintaining a dreamy creamy texture. This also makes it store better, so you can make the healthy chicken salad in advance and it works great for meal prep.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Salad
This is a really complicated recipe haha! All you have to do is prep the veggies and herbs, then toss everything in a big bowl and mix well. Adjust the seasoning and creaminess by adding more Greek yogurt and/or sour cream and additional salt and pepper or the dill pickle seasoning.
Serving and Storage Tips
- If time allows, let the chicken salad chill for about 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to intensify and meld better.
- Add a bit of heat by chopping up fresh jalapenos and adding to the chicken salad mix.
- Serve with crackers, your favorite bread, lettuce cups or stuffed in a fresh ripe avocado.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, giving it a good stir before enjoying.
- Feel free to swap the sour cream for all Greek yogurt, however we do find the added sour cream makes it a bit creamier than Greek yogurt alone.
More Easy Meal Prep Recipes
- 8 ideas for high protein meal prep lunches, both hot and cold suggestions.
- Meal prep ideas for hungry teens that will help them feel full and satisfied throughout the school day!
- Cowboy caviar is a dip or a hearty salad depending on how you serve it! Add diced chicken for a phenomenally healthy and hearty lunch!
- High protein pasta salad is full of protein and fiber, so you’ll stay full and satisfied in between meals. Never get hangry with this one!
Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe (with Dill Pickle Seasoning)
Ingredients
- .75 lbs Cooked and shredded chicken breasts, cooled about 2 medium breasts
- 2 Celery stalks thinly sliced
- 2 Green onions thinly sliced, white and light green parts only
- ¼ cup Parsley finely chopped
- ¼ cup Dill finely chopped
- ½ cup Low-fat Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoon Low-fat sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dill pickle seasoning
- Sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a medium serving bowl and mix till well combined. Adjust seasoning and creaminess as needed, by adding additional sour cream, Greek yogurt and salt and pepper..75 lbs Cooked and shredded chicken breasts, cooled, 2 Celery stalks, 2 Green onions, ¼ cup Parsley, ¼ cup Dill, ½ cup Low-fat Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoon Low-fat sour cream, 1 tablespoon Dill pickle seasoning, Sea salt and cracked black pepper
- For best results, chill for 30 minutes before serving.
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