Fruity Curry Chicken Salad Recipe | Ready in 20 Min
As the sun shines through the kitchen, the smell of spices and chicken fills the air. It invites me to the table. This fruity curry chicken salad is more than a meal. It’s a mix of flavors that takes me back to my college days.
Back then, a similar sandwich was a favorite at the university cafeteria. Now, I’m thrilled to share this quick and tasty recipe with you. It lets you enjoy the same flavors and memories at home.
Key Takeaways
- Fruity curry chicken salad is a flavorful twist on classic chicken salad
- The recipe is inspired by a popular sandwich from Montana State University-Bozeman
- It can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, and summer gatherings
- The salad combines tender chicken, sweet fruits, and aromatic curry powder for a protein-packed and delicious meal
- This recipe is a great way to enjoy the flavors of Jamaican curry in a convenient and refreshing salad format
The Story Behind This Flavorful Chicken Salad
This curry chicken salad has a special history. It started at a sandwich shop near Montana State University-Bozeman. A college student on a tight budget first loved its taste. Now, it’s a favorite dish at home, keeping its unique charm and ease.
Origin at Montana State University
The Pickle Barrel, a local sandwich shop, was where it all began. A student on a budget found this curry chicken salad. It became a favorite lunch and the base for today’s recipe.
Evolution from Restaurant Favorite to Home Recipe
Years later, this curry chicken salad became a home favorite. Its flavors, influenced by the owner’s background, won hearts. It’s now a hit at events like bridal showers and church picnics.
People have made it their own, adding pecans, cranberries, or grapes. Curry powder gives it a warm, complex flavor. This makes it stand out from other chicken salads.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Curry Chicken Salad
Making a tasty healthy salad or protein-packed salad starts with picking the right ingredients. The Fruity Curry Chicken Salad recipe combines flavors and textures perfectly. This is thanks to its carefully chosen ingredients.
The dish’s core is 3 cups of cooked chicken, which offer a lot of protein. To tie everything together, you’ll need mayonnaise, lime juice, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. These are the key seasonings that make the salad taste unique.
The chicken is joined by ½ cup of diced celery for a crunchy feel, ½ cup of raisins for sweetness, ¼ cup of chopped scallions for a hint of onion, and ½ cup of roasted cashews for a nutty crunch.
This protein-packed salad feeds 4 people and is ready in just 20 minutes. It’s a quick and healthy meal choice. With a 4.9-star rating from 93 reviews, it’s a favorite among many.
The salad’s nutritional values are impressive too. Each serving (heaping ¾ cup) has 378 calories, 27g of fat (4g saturated fat), 222mg of sodium, 12g of carbohydrates (2g fiber, 7g sugar), and 23g of protein. It’s a balanced meal that keeps you full and energized.
Understanding Curry Powder: The Star Ingredient
Curry powder is key to the Fruity Curry Chicken Salad. It comes from India and has turmeric, ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. Turmeric, with its curcumin, is known for fighting inflammation and boosting health.
Health Benefits of Turmeric in Curry
Turmeric, the yellow spice in curry powder, is full of health perks. Curcumin, turmeric’s main part, helps reduce inflammation and supports brain health. It might also help prevent some chronic diseases.
- Potent anti-inflammatory properties
- Improved cognitive function and brain health
- Potential cancer-fighting abilities
- Enhanced cardiovascular health
- Improved digestion and liver function
Types of Curry Powder to Use
For the Fruity Curry Chicken Salad, use a standard curry powder. For more heat, try Madras-style curry powder. Either way, the spices in curry powder add a rich flavor to your salad.
“Curry powder is the essence of this recipe, infusing the chicken salad with an enticing blend of warm, earthy spices that perfectly complement the fruity elements.”
| Curry Powder Type | Key Characteristics | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Curry Powder | Balanced blend of spices, mild heat | Ideal for this Fruity Curry Chicken Salad |
| Madras Curry Powder | Intensely aromatic, medium to hot heat | For those seeking a spicier version |
Quick Preparation Tips and Techniques
Preparing a tasty meal prep salad like the Fruity Curry Chicken Salad is fast and easy. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or meal planning. This makes it a great choice for those in a hurry.
Save time by using leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken from the store. For perfectly cooked chicken breasts, try a simple stovetop method. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté it until it’s golden and cooked.
With your chicken ready, the rest is quick. Mix mayonnaise, curry powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Adjust the seasoning as needed, then add the chicken, fruits, and veggies. This whole process takes about 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick meals or batch cooking.
“The Fruity Curry Chicken Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from sandwich fillings to low-carb options. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for busy cooks who want to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal.”
Fruity Curry Chicken Salad: Step-by-Step Guide
Make a delicious fruit salad with this easy recipe for Fruity Curry Chicken Salad. It has tender chicken, crisp veggies, and juicy fruits. All are mixed in a creamy curry dressing. Follow these steps to make this tasty salad.
Mixing the Base
Begin by mixing 2 cups of cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken in a big bowl. Add 1-2 teaspoons of curry powder, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier choice), and a squeeze of lime juice. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Mix until the chicken is well coated with the dressing.
Adding Fruits and Vegetables
- Add 2 ribs of chopped celery for a crunchy texture.
- Include 3 chopped green onions for a mild onion taste.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of raisins for sweetness.
- Top with 1/4 cup of slivered almonds for a nutty feel.
Final Touches
Mix all the ingredients gently until they’re well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. For the best flavor, chill the salad for about an hour before serving.
This recipe makes about 4 servings, with each serving being 3/4 cup. Enjoy it as a main dish, sandwich filling, or appetizer.
| Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|
| 5 Stars | 123 |
| 4 Stars | 78 |
| 3 Stars | 32 |
| 2 Stars | 11 |
| 1 Star | 5 |
Customizing Your Chicken Salad
This chicken salad variations recipe is super versatile. You can change it up to fit your taste and diet needs. The basic ingredients are tasty, but you can add your own twist.
Want a milder flavor? Use green onions instead of red. For sweetness, try golden raisins, currants, dried cranberries, or sliced red grapes.
- Diced mango or apple add a fresh touch.
- Avocado or cooked quinoa make it creamy and filling.
- Chopped nuts like cashews or almonds add crunch.
There’s no limit to what you can do with chicken salad variations. Mix in different fruits, veggies, and extras to make it your own.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked shredded chicken breast | 3 cups |
| Golden raisins | 1/3 cup |
| Celery rib, diced | 1 |
| Red onion, diced | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh Italian parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
The secret to great chicken salad variations is finding the right mix of flavors and textures. Don’t be afraid to try new things and have fun with it!
Dietary Modifications and Substitutions
This curry chicken salad is very versatile. You can make easy changes to fit your dietary needs or preferences. It’s a great way to customize the recipe.
Making It Dairy-Free
For a dairy-free version, swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based or vegan mayo. Choose a creamy one to keep the texture right. You can mix half dairy-free mayo with half unsweetened plain yogurt. Use coconut or almond milk-based yogurt to cut down on fat but keep it creamy.
Nut-Free Options
Need to avoid nuts? No problem. Replace the cashews with roasted and salted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. These options add crunch without the nuts, keeping the flavor intact.
With these simple swaps, you can enjoy the curry chicken salad, no matter your dietary needs. The goal is to find tasty, high-quality alternatives that fit your preferences or restrictions.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing a flavorful meal prep salad like this Fruity Curry Chicken Salad in advance can be a game-changer for busy weekdays. It’s quick to make and stays fresh, making it a great make-ahead lunch choice.
To store the salad, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better with time. But, don’t freeze it, as the texture might change when thawed.
Meal prepping is easy with this salad. Just mix the ingredients, chill it in the fridge, and you’re set for a quick lunch all week.
For the best taste, prepare the salad the night before or a couple of days ahead. This lets the flavors mix well and the chicken absorb the curry dressing. Then, serve it on greens, in a sandwich, or as a main dish whenever you’re hungry.
This make-ahead lunch is incredibly convenient. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy the Fruity Curry Chicken Salad all week. No daily meal prep hassle!
Creative Serving Suggestions
This flavorful Curry Chicken Salad is perfect for many dishes. Try it on a freshly baked sub roll with crisp lettuce, sliced onions, and juicy tomatoes. Or, use it as a filling for wraps or pita bread for a quick meal.
Sandwich Variations
Want to try something different? Serve it on whole grain bread or sourdough for a heartier sandwich. Or, serve it on lettuce leaves or baby spinach for a low-carb option.
Low-Carb Options
For a low-carb diet, this salad is great. Enjoy it on crisp cucumber slices or colorful bell pepper strips. You can also top a bed of greens or use it in lettuce wraps for a flavorful, low-carb meal.
FAQ
What is the origin of this fruity curry chicken salad recipe?
This recipe started at the Pickle Barrel, a sandwich shop near Montana State University-Bozeman. A college student on a tight budget found the curried chicken salad sub. This discovery inspired the homemade version over 20 years later.
What are the key ingredients in this chicken salad?
The main ingredients are cooked chicken, mayonnaise, and curry powder. Lime juice, apple, celery, raisins, red onion, cashews, and cilantro are also key. Together, they offer a mix of flavors and textures.
What are the health benefits of curry powder?
Curry powder, with turmeric, ginger, garlic, and more, is packed with health benefits. Turmeric’s curcumin helps reduce inflammation and boosts brain function.
How long does it take to prepare this fruity curry chicken salad?
You can make this salad in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for quick meals or meal prep. Using leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken saves time.
Can this salad be customized or modified?
Yes, you can customize the salad. Try using green onions instead of red onions. Swap raisins for golden raisins, currants, or dried cranberries. Add mango, apple, or pineapple for sweetness.
How can this salad be stored and for how long?
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get better over time, making it great for ahead-of-time prep. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.
How can this fruity curry chicken salad be served?
Serve it on a sub roll with lettuce, onions, and tomatoes for a classic sandwich. You can also use it in wraps, pita bread, or as a topping for greens. For a low-carb option, try it with cucumber or bell pepper slices.