Curry Chicken Salad

In my kitchen, there’s always an air of excitement when I prepare Curry Chicken Salad. It brings back memories of summer picnics in the backyard, where flavors come alive under the sun. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant ingredients tossed together in a harmonious blend. The aroma of roasted chicken mingling with the warm spices of curry sends a wave of nostalgia and joy. I remember one sunny afternoon, a dear friend dropped by, and we decided to whip up this delightful salad together. The laughter and chatter filled the kitchen, and before we knew it, we were savoring our creation, each bite bursting with flavor and comfort. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a simple lunch, Curry Chicken Salad always brings a smile to my face.

Ingredients Required for Curry Chicken Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for a dish like Curry Chicken Salad. Each component plays a vital role in creating a balanced flavor profile. The robust tastes of curry powder, the creaminess of mayonnaise, and the sweetness from mango all blend together beautifully. Let’s explore the ingredients that make this salad a delightful treat.

• 2 chicken breasts, split, bone-in, skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 3 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon lime juice, fresh
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup red onion, chopped (about a cup)
• 1 fresh mango, peeled, pitted, and diced, about ⅔ cup
• 1 cup red grapes, seedless, halved
• 1 cup salted roasted cashews, roughly chopped
• 1 cup lettuce for garnish – optional
• 8 sandwich rolls, croissants, ciabatta, etc – optional

How to Prepare Curry Chicken Salad

Preparing Curry Chicken Salad is a straightforward process, allowing you to enjoy deliciousness without stress. Follow these steps for a satisfying outcome that’s sure to please everyone around the table. Let’s dive right in!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and becomes beautifully golden.
2. Rub the chicken pieces with olive oil, making sure they’re well coated. Then, sprinkle generously with Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. The seasoning will enhance the flavors wonderfully.
3. Place the seasoned chicken on a baking rack set over a lined baking sheet. This setup will allow hot air to circulate around the chicken, leading to an evenly cooked and crispy texture.
4. Roast the chicken for 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This is crucial for ensuring the meat is safe to eat. The skin should be golden and slightly crispy.
5. Once cooked, set the chicken aside until it’s cool enough to handle. This helps prevent burns and allows the meat to retain its juices.
6. Remove the meat from the bones, discarding the skin. Dice the chicken into large bite-sized pieces, measuring about ½”x½”. This size is perfect for incorporating into the salad.
7. In a medium bowl, prepare the dressing by mixing together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt, curry powder, lime juice, honey, ginger, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir until thoroughly combined, creating a creamy and aromatic mixture.
8. In a separate large bowl, combine the diced chicken, red onion, mango, grapes, and cashews. This combination of ingredients will provide a beautiful balance of sweetness and crunch.
9. Gradually add the dressing to the chicken mixture, starting with about ½ a cup. Gently stir as you go, ensuring everything is coated evenly. You may need between 1 to 1½ cups of dressing based on your preference for creaminess.
10. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, let the salad come to room temperature for the best taste.
11. Finally, serve the Curry Chicken Salad over a bed of lettuce or as sandwiches using your favorite rolls. Enjoy the flavors and make it a centerpiece of your meal!

Ways to Customize

There are so many fun ways to personalize your own Curry Chicken Salad! Here are some great ideas to consider:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This salad isn’t suitable for freezing due to the mayonnaise and yogurt, which can separate.
• Serving Ideas: Pair with crispy tortilla chips or pita bread for a delightful crunch.
• Herb Additions: Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can elevate the dish’s freshness.
• Spice Variations: Adjust the level of curry powder to suit your taste preferences.

What to Serve With Curry Chicken Salad

When it comes to serving Curry Chicken Salad, the options are abundant and delicious. Here are some ideas:

• Sandwiches: Perfect in croissants, ciabatta, or whole grain bread for a quick lunch.
• Light Lunch: Serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or tomato soup for a light meal.
• Picnics: It’s a great choice for outdoor gatherings, served in a portable container.
• Seasonal Pairings: Pair with seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches in summer.
• Chips: Serve with potato chips or pita chips for an extra crunch.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Curry Chicken Salad is truly a standout dish that combines freshness, flavor, and versatility in one bowl. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply preparing a delicious family meal, it’s sure to impress. I encourage you to try it out, and I’m confident it will quickly become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the joy it brings to your table!

Curry Chicken Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Curry Chicken Salad is a creamy and vibrant dish that makes for an easy weeknight dinner. Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor, this salad brings a delightful twist to your meal routine. Make it tonight and enjoy the freshness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Salads

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Peeler
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces chicken breasts, split, bone-in, skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt to taste fresh ground pepper
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 3 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon lime juice, fresh
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup red onion, chopped (about a cup)
• 1 fresh mango peeled, pitted, and diced, about ⅔ cup
• 1 cup red grapes, seedless, halved
• 1 cup salted roasted cashews, roughly chopped
• 1 cup lettuce for garnish - optional
• 8 pieces sandwich rolls, croissants, ciabatta, etc - optional

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and becomes beautifully golden.
• Rub the chicken pieces with olive oil, making sure they’re well coated. Then, sprinkle generously with Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. The seasoning will enhance the flavors wonderfully.
• Place the seasoned chicken on a baking rack set over a lined baking sheet. This setup will allow hot air to circulate around the chicken, leading to an evenly cooked and crispy texture.
• Roast the chicken for 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This is crucial for ensuring the meat is safe to eat. The skin should be golden and slightly crispy.
• Once cooked, set the chicken aside until it’s cool enough to handle. This helps prevent burns and allows the meat to retain its juices.
• Remove the meat from the bones, discarding the skin. Dice the chicken into large bite-sized pieces, measuring about ½”x½”. This size is perfect for incorporating into the salad.
• In a medium bowl, prepare the dressing by mixing together the mayonnaise, plain yogurt, curry powder, lime juice, honey, ginger, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir until thoroughly combined, creating a creamy and aromatic mixture.
• In a separate large bowl, combine the diced chicken, red onion, mango, grapes, and cashews. This combination of ingredients will provide a beautiful balance of sweetness and crunch.
• Gradually add the dressing to the chicken mixture, starting with about ½ a cup. Gently stir as you go, ensuring everything is coated evenly. You may need between 1 to 1½ cups of dressing based on your preference for creaminess.
• Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, let the salad come to room temperature for the best taste.
• Finally, serve the Curry Chicken Salad over a bed of lettuce or as sandwiches using your favorite rolls. Enjoy the flavors and make it a centerpiece of your meal!

Notes

• Tip 1: The roasted chicken can be made up to 1 day in advance. A rotisserie chicken works well, too.
• Tip 2: Be sure to know the heat level of the curry powder before adding it to the dressing.
• Tip 3: We love serving this to guests over a bed of lettuce, with sliced croissants or ciabatta rolls.
• Tip 4: The salad definitely gets better after it's had time to sit in the fridge for a day.

Keyword Chicken Salad Recipe, Curry Chicken Salad, Easy Chicken Salad, Healthy Salad Recipes

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.