If you’re looking for a bright, flavourful twist on classic chicken salad, this Curry Chicken Salad is a must-try.
Tender shredded chicken, crisp apples, crunchy celery, and toasted cashews come together with a creamy Indian curry-spiced dressing for a refreshing and satisfying dish.
Perfect for lunch, sandwiches, wraps, or as a light dinner, this salad is both versatile and easy to prepare.
Save this recipe to Pinterest!
What Is Curry Chicken Salad?
Curry Chicken Salad is a modern take on traditional chicken salad, incorporating aromatic Indian curry powder into a creamy base of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt.
While classic chicken salad dates back to the late 19th century in the United States as a way to use leftover cooked chicken, adding curry powder transforms it into a globally inspired dish with a warm, slightly spicy flavour.
This version often includes fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts for crunch and balance, making it a refreshing and vibrant alternative to traditional chicken salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and flavourful: The combination of Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and curry powder creates a luscious, aromatic dressing.
- Crisp and crunchy: Apples, celery, and cashews provide texture and contrast.
- Easy to make: Minimal prep with simple, everyday ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, salads, or as a standalone dish.
- Make-ahead friendly: Great for meal prep, picnics, or entertaining guests.
How To Make Curry Chicken Salad
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, diced apple, celery, scallions, and toasted cashews.
- Add the dressing: Pour the curry dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Enjoy on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, in a wrap, or simply by itself.
Cooking Tips
- Use cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken works perfectly.
- Crisp apples: Choose firm, tart varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp to add texture without turning mushy.
- Toast the cashews: Lightly toasting nuts enhances flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
- Adjust spice level: Add more or less curry powder depending on your taste preference.
- Make ahead: This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- On bread or wraps: Make a flavourful sandwich or wrap for lunch or picnics. We particularly love filling a flaky croissant with the chicken salad.
- Over greens: Serve on a bed of lettuce, spinach, or arugula for a light, refreshing meal.
- With crackers: Perfect for a snack or appetizer at gatherings.
- As a side dish: Pair with quinoa, rice, or couscous for a hearty and balanced meal.
Curry Chicken Salad
Equipment
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- French knife
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt
- 2 tbsp Lime or Lemon Juice
- 2 tsp Curry Powder
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 3 cups Cooked Chicken chopped or shredded
- 1/2 cup Apple diced
- 1/2 cup Celery diced
- 1/2 cup Raisins
- 1/4 cup Scallions chopped
- 1/2 cup Cashews chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, stir together mayonnaise, lime juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken, apple, celery, raisins, and scallions. Stir together until well coated. Cover and chill until ready to serve.
- Stir in cashews and additional salt to taste just before serving.
Nutrition
Save this recipe to Pinterest!
