Chicken, Rice Chutney Salad
A vibrant chicken and rice salad infused with curry and mango chutney, topped with crunchy cashews—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a flavorful light lunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine French dressing and mango chutney in a bowl.
- Mix cooked and diced chicken, cooked rice, green peas, chopped celery, and curry powder in a large bowl.
- Add the dressing and mango chutney mixture to the salad and toss well.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Garnish with cashews before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier salad, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing mixture. You can substitute the curry powder with a mild curry paste for a more robust flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also enhance the salad's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken, Rice Chutney Salad is perfect for casual gatherings or potlucks, pairing wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light soup or a fruit salad. It also makes for a great filling in wraps for a quick lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it for a few minutes, but it's best served cold. If the salad seems dry after refrigerating, add a splash of French dressing or a bit of mango chutney to revive the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken, Rice Chutney Salad contains roughly 1982 calories, with 21g protein, 267g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), and protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a few hours or even a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator until serving to maintain freshness. The flavors meld beautifully with some time, making it a great make-ahead option.
What can I use instead of French dressing?
If you don't have French dressing on hand, you can substitute it with a vinaigrette or a light creamy dressing. A homemade mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of honey will also work well, adding a different but delicious flavor profile to the salad.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices! Chopped bell peppers, diced cucumbers, or even shredded carrots can add color and crunch. Just ensure that any additional veggies complement the overall flavor of the salad.
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).