A celebration of food, family, and Canada’s last team standing
There’s a lot to cheer for this spring — and not just on the ice.
In the GetJoyfull kitchen, our most recent platter-style recipes have sparked incredible feedback from families, parents, and athletes alike. Whether for busy weeknights, after-school dinners, or second-intermission snacks, platters are proving to be more than just a trend — they’re a winning way to gather, fuel well, and enjoy good food together.
As the Edmonton Oilers make their way through the Stanley Cup Playoffs as the last Canadian team in the race, we wanted to join in the excitement with a series that’s both meaningful and fun.
So we did what felt most natural — we brought back four of our most loved, family-approved GetJoyfull recipes and reimagined them as part of a new celebration:
The Playoff Platter Series
Four recipes. Four wins. One Cup run.
Each platter is simple to prepare, rich in nutrients, and powered by GetJoyfull partner Alberta Chicken — an ingredient we’re proud to feature. These recipes are designed to nourish athletes, support active families, and help make the most of game nights at home.
Why Platters?
Platters create a natural rhythm at the table. They slow things down, encourage variety, and give everyone — especially kids — the chance to explore new foods with low pressure and high curiosity.
Each of the recipes below brings together quality ingredients, straightforward preparation, and practical nutrition. Every bite is designed to help fuel family life — and keep the cheering going from puck drop to final whistle.
Win 1: Chicken & Dill Pickle Salad
A refreshing, high-protein salad that’s ideal for snacking or spreading.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup light mayonnaise (or half plain Greek yogurt)
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ cup chopped dill pickles
- 3 Tbsp pickle juice
- ½ cup finely diced celery
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- 3 Tbsp chopped fresh dill
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayo, Dijon, pickle juice, garlic powder, dill, and pepper.
- Fold in the chicken, pickles, and vegetables until evenly coated.
- Chill for 10–15 minutes. Serve with crackers, lettuce cups, or mini bell peppers.
GetJoyfull Tip: This recipe keeps well for up to 3 days and works great as a meal-prep lunch or post-practice recovery bowl.
Win 2: Spring Chicken Taco Platter
Build-your-own tacos made with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy dips.
You’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8–10 small whole-grain tortillas
- Shredded lettuce, cucumber slices, quartered cherry tomatoes
- ¾ cup tzatziki
- ¾ cup hummus or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- Roasted pumpkin seeds
- Optional: lemon wedges, dried oregano
To assemble:
- Arrange the tortillas at one end of a large platter or board.
- Place the shredded chicken in the centre.
- Surround with small bowls or compartments filled with toppings.
- Encourage everyone to build their own taco at the table.
GetJoyfull Tip: This platter supports independence and encourages kids to try new textures and flavours in a calm, no-pressure way.
Win 3: Sticky Honey Chicken Sticks
Sweet and savoury grilled skewers that are easy to eat and full of flavour.
Makes 12 sticks
Ingredients:
- 8 boneless, skinless Alberta chicken thighs
- ¼ cup Alberta honey
- ¼ cup light soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ cup sesame oil
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 Tbsp fresh grated ginger
- Pinch of black pepper
Directions:
- Trim chicken and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together marinade ingredients. Add chicken and stir to coat. Cover and marinate for 2 to 24 hours.
- Soak wooden skewers or prepare metal skewers. Thread marinated chicken evenly.
- Grill over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, turning once, until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
- Garnish with a drizzle of honey and sesame seeds if desired.
GetJoyfull Tip: Chicken thighs are especially rich in iron and less likely to dry out on the grill — a great option for family-style cooking.
Win 4: Beer-Marinated Chicken Platter
A bold, BBQ-friendly dish that brings the whole team to the table.
Serves 6
Ingredients:
- 1 can (355 mL) Alberta beer
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- 2 Tbsp Alberta honey
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- 2 Tbsp pickle juice
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 8–10 boneless, skinless Alberta chicken thighs
Directions:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl or large freezer bag. Add chicken and refrigerate for 3 to 24 hours.
- Preheat grill to 375°F. Remove chicken from marinade and discard liquid.
- Grill 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with seasonal vegetables, backyard bread, or your favourite sides.
Emily’s Note: “We love this recipe for gatherings. It’s simple, flavourful, and showcases Alberta chicken at its best.”
Let’s all Cook & Cheer!
I sure hope you enjoy and try this series. If you’re an Oilers fan like me, you’re probably willing to do anything to help cheer them on, so why not cook and cheer?! This Playoff Platter Series brings together everything we love about cooking and sharing food at home:
- Nourishing, flexible meals
- Quality Canadian ingredients
- Kid-friendly prep and presentation
- Joyful family moments — no matter who’s winning on the scoreboard
Whether you’re raising young athletes, supporting local farmers, or simply bringing loved ones together, these recipes offer a practical and joyful way to make the most of the season — one platter at a time.
Let’s keep fuelling strong, cheering louder, and showing up at the table — together. Don’t forget to tag @GetJoyfull and share your own platter night moments! #PlayoffPlatter #GetJoyfull #CanadianChicken #StanleyCupEats #OilersNation
Emily Mardell is a Registered Dietitian, busy mama of three and proud Alberta foodie. Emily is passionate about quality ingredients and creating delicious, nourishing recipes that bring families together. Follow her on social media @GetJoyfull or GetJoyfull.com for nutrition advice and tips to grow food joy and fill up on family time.
Disclaimer: This post was created in partnership with Alberta Chicken Producers. Special thanks to ACP for their ongoing support to Food Banks Alberta and community food security during the holidays and beyond. From this Dietitian Mama, and local food banks province-wide, thank you farmers!