Curried Chicken Salad From New Jersey
A vibrant, flavorful chicken salad featuring curry, mandarin oranges, grapes, and nuts, perfect for a light lunch or picnic, appealing to those seeking a sweet-savory mix.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cooked, cubed chicken, mandarin orange slices, roasted cashew nuts, chopped apple, raisins, and seedless grapes in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, stir together the low-fat mayonnaise and curry powder.
- Add the curry mayonnaise mixture to the chicken and fruit mixture.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the cashews with chopped pecans or walnuts. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of low-fat mayonnaise for a healthier twist. If you prefer a bit more sweetness, adding a drizzle of honey can enhance the flavor profile. For a spicier kick, try increasing the curry powder to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Curried Chicken Salad is perfect as a stand-alone dish or served on a bed of greens. Pair it with whole-grain crackers or toasted bread for a satisfying meal. It also goes well with a refreshing side like a cucumber salad or a bowl of Good Corn Chowder for a delightful lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir to recombine the ingredients. If you prefer it chilled, allow it to sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes after mixing. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Chicken Salad From New Jersey contains roughly 1285 calories, with 12g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 113g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), iron (51% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a wonderful flavor. Just ensure the chicken is cooled and cubed before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Use a vegan mayonnaise or a tahini-based dressing for creaminess. The fruits and nuts will still provide great texture and flavor.
What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs beautifully with a light, citrusy side dish or a bowl of Golden Summer Squash Soup. You can also serve it in a sandwich or a wrap for a hearty lunch option.
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).