My Dill Chicken Salad with Lettuce Cups is a completely reimagined kind of chicken salad. I re-mixed it Fab Four-style to make it healthier and tastier.
Here's the inside scoop:
- Double-the-protein (by swapping out Greek yogurt for most of the mayo)
- Packed full of fresh herbs
- Boasts a satisfying crunch from added veggies
- Totally satisfying without feeling heavy
This chicken salad is quick, fresh, and keeps you full for hours – ideal for a fast lunch and equally good the next day. Yes to meal prep!
Breakdown of the Fab Four for Balanced Nutrition
My Dill Chicken Salad is a perfect example of the Fab Four at work – protein, fat, fiber, and greens that work synergistically to support blood sugar balance and satiety:
- Protein: Each serving delivers 25-30 grams of protein from chicken and Greek yogurt. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance, hormone production, and steady energy levels. It’s the best macronutrient for keeping cravings at bay.
- Fat: Healthy fats from mayonnaise provide essential fatty acids that support brain health and hormone balance, while also helping you feel fuller longer. Important to note we’re trading out a conventional seed oil-based mayo for an avocado oil-based mayo (my favorite is Primal Kitchen – use code KELLY).
- Fiber and Greens: Crisp cucumber, celery, and dill add fiber, which promotes digestive health, slows glucose absorption, and helps regulate appetite. They offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that aid in detoxification, immune function, and cellular repair.
Satisfying Textures
Part of the magic of this salad comes from the melding of so many textures and flavors. It’s rich and creamy from a combo of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. And extra crunchy from the addition of celery, cucumbers, and the lettuce wrap.
Lemon for tang. Dill for depth. Mayo for the most subtle touch of sweet. And salty celery rounds out the full flavor profile. Together, all of these flavors and textures offer an added level of satisfaction.
Ways to Customize It
This chicken salad is incredibly flexible and pairs well with a variety of serving options to suit your dietary preferences, so feel free to adjust ingredient amounts to suit your taste!
- Grain-Free Crackers: Enjoy it as a satisfying dip or spread for grain-free crackers to keep things low-carb and gluten-free.
- Sourdough Bread: For those who enjoy grains, a slice of toasted sourdough offers a delicious, fiber-rich base with a touch of tanginess.
- Lettuce Wraps: Wrap the chicken salad in crisp butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a fresh, light, and low-carb meal option.
- For those looking to avoid dairy, substituting Greek yogurt with unsweetened coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt can provide similar creaminess while keeping the recipe dairy-free and gut-friendly.
- For extra texture, you can add sliced almonds or more chopped vegetables.
Want More Protein-Forward Salads?
- Herbaceous Salmon Salad
- French Salmon Salad
- Viral Green Goddess Chicken Salad
- Tuna Salad
- Lemon Basil Chicken Salad
