Calcutta Chicken Salad
A vibrant and flavorful chicken salad featuring mandarin oranges, pineapple, and blue cheese dressing, perfect for a light lunch or dinner for those who enjoy bold tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine diced chicken, mandarin orange sections, green pepper, celery, pineapple chunks, and blue cheese dressing in a large bowl.
- Add curry powder to taste, starting with 1/4 teaspoon and adjusting up to 1 teaspoon as desired.
- Mix well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with coconut, walnuts, and bacon pieces if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavors, consider using leftover rotisserie chicken for added depth. If you prefer a lighter dressing, opt for Greek yogurt mixed with blue cheese. For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper. This salad can be customized with your favorite fruits like apples or grapes, making it versatile for various tastes. Explore more American recipes to find complementary dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant salad on a bed of mixed greens for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or as a filling in wraps. Consider garnishing with toasted coconut, walnuts, or crispy bacon pieces for added texture. This dish is perfect for picnics or potlucks, making it a great addition to your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can become slightly watery due to the fruits, so give it a gentle stir before serving. To reheat, if desired, allow it to come to room temperature or serve it cold, as the flavors are best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calcutta Chicken Salad contains roughly 267 calories, with 12g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 477mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Calcutta Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is ideal for making ahead. Preparing it the night before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good mix before serving to refresh the ingredients.
What can I substitute for blue cheese dressing?
If you're not a fan of blue cheese dressing, you can substitute it with ranch or a light vinaigrette for a different flavor profile. Greek yogurt mixed with herbs can also serve as a creamy, healthier alternative.
Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or diced tofu for protein, and maintain the same fruity and crunchy ingredients. This vegetarian version still holds the delicious flavors of the original recipe while being meat-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).