Curry Chicken Salad: Easy, Flavorful and Ready in Minutes

• 4 cups shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
• 1 cup grapes, halved (or substitute with ½ cup raisins for a different sweetness)
• 1 cup celery, diced (for essential crunch)
• ½!– /wp:list-item –>
• ½ cup cashews, coarsely chopped (substitute with almonds for quick Curry Chicken Salad with almonds)
• ¼!– /wp:list-item –>
• Optional: ¼ cup dried cranberries for Curry Chicken Salad with dried cranberries

For the Dressing:

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise (use light mayo for a lighter version)
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1 tablespoon curry powder (adjust to taste for mild or spicy Curry Chicken Salad)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra heat

How to Make Curry Chicken Salad – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, poach 2 large chicken breasts in simmering water for about 15 minutes until cooked through. Cool and shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for the ultimate time-saver.

Step 2: Make the Curry Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, curry powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. For the best flavor development, let this dressing sit for 5 minutes to allow the curry powder to bloom.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken, halved grapes, diced celery, red onion, cashews, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the curry dressing. Be careful not to overmix, which can break down the chicken too much.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the Curry Chicken Salad for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Curry Chicken Salad

• Toast your nuts: For enhanced flavor in your Curry Chicken Salad, toast cashews or almonds in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes until fragrant before adding them.
• Customize your curry: The secret to the best Curry Chicken Salad is finding your preferred curry powder. Some are mild, while others are more robust. Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
• Control the moisture: If your Curry Chicken Salad seems too dry after chilling, add a tablespoon more of mayo or yogurt. If too wet, add more chicken or vegetables.
• Make it ahead: This salad actually improves in flavor after a few hours in the refrigerator, making it perfect for Curry Chicken Salad meal prep ideas.
• Add avocado: For a nutritional boost and creamy texture, add diced avocado just before serving to make a delicious spicy Curry Chicken Salad with avocado.

Best Ways to Serve Curry Chicken Salad

The versatility of this Curry Chicken Salad makes it a perfect go-to recipe. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Scoop onto a bed of fresh lettuce for a light lunch
• Stuff inside a pita pocket with extra greens
• Spread between two slices of toasted whole grain bread for the perfect sandwich
• Fill avocado halves for a gorgeous low-carb presentation
• Serve with crisp crackers or cucumber slices for an appetizer
• Roll up in a tortilla wrap with spinach for an easy lunch on-the-go
• Hollow out a tomato and fill with Curry Chicken Salad for an impressive starter

Pair your Curry Chicken Salad with a refreshing iced tea, sparkling water with citrus, or a light white wine for the perfect meal.

Nutritional Information for Curry Chicken Salad

Per serving (recipe makes 6 servings):

• Calories: 325 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 19g (5g saturated)
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 380mg

This Curry Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free and fits well with low-carb Curry Chicken Salad variations for keto diets. To make it even lighter, increase the ratio of Greek yogurt to mayonnaise.

Storage & Leftovers

How long does Curry Chicken Salad last in the fridge? This Curry Chicken Salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I freeze Curry Chicken Salad? Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the mayonnaise and yogurt base, which can separate upon thawing, and the vegetables which can become watery.

Meal prep tip: For the freshest Curry Chicken Salad meal prep ideas, store the prepared salad in individual containers. Keep any optional toppings like extra nuts or fresh herbs separate and add them just before serving.

FAQ About Curry Chicken Salad

What are the main ingredients in Curry Chicken Salad?

The main ingredients in Curry Chicken Salad are cooked chicken, curry powder, mayonnaise, yogurt, celery, grapes, and nuts. These ingredients create the perfect balance of protein, creaminess, crunch, and sweetness that makes this salad so satisfying.

How do you make Curry Chicken Salad?

To make Curry Chicken Salad, you first create a dressing with mayo, yogurt, curry powder, and lime juice. Then combine it with cooked, shredded chicken and mix in crunchy elements like celery and nuts, plus sweet components like grapes. Chill before serving for the best flavor.

Is Curry Chicken Salad healthy?

Yes, Curry Chicken Salad can be quite healthy, especially when made with Greek yogurt to reduce the amount of mayonnaise. It’s high in protein from the chicken, contains healthy fats from nuts, and provides fiber and vitamins from the fruits and vegetables. For an even healthier version, try healthy Curry Chicken Salad with grapes and extra veggies.

Can I use leftover chicken for Curry Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is one of the best ways to make easy Curry Chicken Salad for lunch. Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even roasted chicken from yesterday’s dinner works perfectly. Just shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces before mixing with the other ingredients.

Conclusion

This Curry Chicken Salad recipe brings together the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements in one delightful dish. Whether you’re making it for a quick weekday lunch, meal prepping for the week ahead, or serving it at your next gathering, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The aromatic curry flavor transforms ordinary chicken salad into something truly special without requiring complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Now that you have mastered this Curry Chicken Salad, why not experiment with different variations? Try adding mango for a tropical twist or swap the grapes for apples in the fall. The possibilities are endless!

Have you tried making Curry Chicken Salad before? What are your favorite add-ins? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to rate this recipe if you try it!

Print

After a long day at work, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen preparing dinner. That’s where this Curry Chicken Salad recipe comes to the rescue! With its vibrant golden hue, fragrant spices, and perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures, this Curry Chicken Salad is a game-changer for busy weeknights. The aromatic curry powder mingles with tender chicken pieces, sweet grapes, and crunchy celery to create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option, a potluck crowd-pleaser, or a light dinner, this Curry Chicken Salad recipe adapts beautifully to any occasion while delivering maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Curry Chicken Salad

• ✅ Quick Curry Chicken Salad with almonds that’s ready in just 15 minutes
• ✅ Healthy Curry Chicken Salad with grapes that’s both nutritious and satisfying
• ✅ Versatile recipe perfect for Curry Chicken Salad meal prep ideas
• ✅ Creamy Curry Chicken Salad for sandwiches, wraps, or eaten straight from the bowl
• ✅ Traditional Curry Chicken Salad ingredients with modern flavor twists
• ✅ Flavorful Curry Chicken Salad for potlucks that always gets compliments
• ✅ Low-carb Curry Chicken Salad variations available for keto and paleo diets

Ingredients for Curry Chicken Salad

For the Salad:

• 4 cups shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
• 1 cup grapes, halved (or substitute with ½ cup raisins for a different sweetness)
• 1 cup celery, diced (for essential crunch)
• ½!– /wp:list-item –>
• ½ cup cashews, coarsely chopped (substitute with almonds for quick Curry Chicken Salad with almonds)
• ¼!– /wp:list-item –>
• Optional: ¼ cup dried cranberries for Curry Chicken Salad with dried cranberries

For the Dressing:

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise (use light mayo for a lighter version)
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1 tablespoon curry powder (adjust to taste for mild or spicy Curry Chicken Salad)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra heat

How to Make Curry Chicken Salad – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, poach 2 large chicken breasts in simmering water for about 15 minutes until cooked through. Cool and shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for the ultimate time-saver.

Step 2: Make the Curry Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, curry powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. For the best flavor development, let this dressing sit for 5 minutes to allow the curry powder to bloom.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken, halved grapes, diced celery, red onion, cashews, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the curry dressing. Be careful not to overmix, which can break down the chicken too much.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the Curry Chicken Salad for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Curry Chicken Salad

• Toast your nuts: For enhanced flavor in your Curry Chicken Salad, toast cashews or almonds in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes until fragrant before adding them.
• Customize your curry: The secret to the best Curry Chicken Salad is finding your preferred curry powder. Some are mild, while others are more robust. Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
• Control the moisture: If your Curry Chicken Salad seems too dry after chilling, add a tablespoon more of mayo or yogurt. If too wet, add more chicken or vegetables.
• Make it ahead: This salad actually improves in flavor after a few hours in the refrigerator, making it perfect for Curry Chicken Salad meal prep ideas.
• Add avocado: For a nutritional boost and creamy texture, add diced avocado just before serving to make a delicious spicy Curry Chicken Salad with avocado.

Best Ways to Serve Curry Chicken Salad

The versatility of this Curry Chicken Salad makes it a perfect go-to recipe. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Scoop onto a bed of fresh lettuce for a light lunch
• Stuff inside a pita pocket with extra greens
• Spread between two slices of toasted whole grain bread for the perfect sandwich
• Fill avocado halves for a gorgeous low-carb presentation
• Serve with crisp crackers or cucumber slices for an appetizer
• Roll up in a tortilla wrap with spinach for an easy lunch on-the-go
• Hollow out a tomato and fill with Curry Chicken Salad for an impressive starter

Pair your Curry Chicken Salad with a refreshing iced tea, sparkling water with citrus, or a light white wine for the perfect meal.

Nutritional Information for Curry Chicken Salad

Per serving (recipe makes 6 servings):

• Calories: 325 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 19g (5g saturated)
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 380mg

This Curry Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free and fits well with low-carb Curry Chicken Salad variations for keto diets. To make it even lighter, increase the ratio of Greek yogurt to mayonnaise.

Storage & Leftovers

How long does Curry Chicken Salad last in the fridge? This Curry Chicken Salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I freeze Curry Chicken Salad? Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the mayonnaise and yogurt base, which can separate upon thawing, and the vegetables which can become watery.

Meal prep tip: For the freshest Curry Chicken Salad meal prep ideas, store the prepared salad in individual containers. Keep any optional toppings like extra nuts or fresh herbs separate and add them just before serving.

FAQ About Curry Chicken Salad

What are the main ingredients in Curry Chicken Salad?

The main ingredients in Curry Chicken Salad are cooked chicken, curry powder, mayonnaise, yogurt, celery, grapes, and nuts. These ingredients create the perfect balance of protein, creaminess, crunch, and sweetness that makes this salad so satisfying.

How do you make Curry Chicken Salad?

To make Curry Chicken Salad, you first create a dressing with mayo, yogurt, curry powder, and lime juice. Then combine it with cooked, shredded chicken and mix in crunchy elements like celery and nuts, plus sweet components like grapes. Chill before serving for the best flavor.

Is Curry Chicken Salad healthy?

Yes, Curry Chicken Salad can be quite healthy, especially when made with Greek yogurt to reduce the amount of mayonnaise. It’s high in protein from the chicken, contains healthy fats from nuts, and provides fiber and vitamins from the fruits and vegetables. For an even healthier version, try healthy Curry Chicken Salad with grapes and extra veggies.

Can I use leftover chicken for Curry Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is one of the best ways to make easy Curry Chicken Salad for lunch. Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even roasted chicken from yesterday’s dinner works perfectly. Just shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces before mixing with the other ingredients.

Conclusion

This Curry Chicken Salad recipe brings together the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements in one delightful dish. Whether you’re making it for a quick weekday lunch, meal prepping for the week ahead, or serving it at your next gathering, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The aromatic curry flavor transforms ordinary chicken salad into something truly special without requiring complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Now that you have mastered this Curry Chicken Salad, why not experiment with different variations? Try adding mango for a tropical twist or swap the grapes for apples in the fall. The possibilities are endless!

Have you tried making Curry Chicken Salad before? What are your favorite add-ins? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to rate this recipe if you try it!