This delightful Curried Chicken Salad recipe combines tender chicken with a harmonious blend of spices and textures, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect for a light lunch or as a snack, it’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into the details of this recipe and explore why it’s a favorite among many!
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/8 cup curry powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
- 8 ounces cooked chicken, diced
- 6 tablespoons chopped onions
- 2 tablespoons chopped red bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 234.2
- Total Fat: 13.9g
- Saturated Fat: 4.3g
- Cholesterol: 67.8mg
- Sodium: 220.8mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 9.6g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugar: 7.5g
- Protein: 17.4g
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the plain yogurt, mayonnaise, curry powder, ground ginger, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated, forming a creamy and fragrant dressing.
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Mix in the Chicken and Vegetables: Add the diced chicken, chopped onions, chopped red bell peppers, and raisins to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold the ingredients together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
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Chill to Perfection: Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for several hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salad a final gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Serve it as a filling for sandwiches, atop a bed of mixed greens, or enjoy it as a standalone dish. Garnish with additional raisins or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.
Tips and Variations:
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Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry powder and ginger to suit your taste preferences. For a milder flavor, reduce the curry powder, or add a touch of honey to balance out the spice.
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Add Crunch: Enhance the texture of the salad by incorporating chopped nuts such as almonds or cashews. Their crunchiness adds a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and creamy dressing.
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Make it Creamier: If you prefer a creamier consistency, increase the amount of mayonnaise or yogurt in the dressing. Alternatively, you can add a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra tangy twist.
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Boost the Nutrient Content: Incorporate additional vegetables such as diced celery, shredded carrots, or sliced grapes for added nutrients and freshness. These colorful additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to a more wholesome meal.
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Serve with Accompaniments: Enjoy the Curried Chicken Salad alongside a slice of crusty bread, pita chips, or crackers for a satisfying meal. It also pairs well with fresh fruit or a side of mixed greens for a well-rounded and nutritious plate.
Conclusion:
This Curried Chicken Salad recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and flavor harmony. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a delightful snack, this salad is bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Give it a try and experience the culinary magic firsthand!
