This Greek Yogurt Curry Chicken Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a hint of spice from the curry.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a tasty meal ready in no time. Perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast for a lean option. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great too. If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, try canned chickpeas or tofu.
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient adds creaminess and tang. If you want a vegan version, opt for dairy-free yogurt, like coconut or almond-based yogurt.
Curry Powder: Adjust the amount to match your spice preference. If you don’t have curry powder, try garam masala or curry paste for a different flavor. Each will bring its unique twist to the salad!
Crunchy Veggies: Celery and cucumber provide crunch. Feel free to substitute bell peppers or carrots if you prefer. Freshness is key, so choose what you like!
Dried Fruit: I love using cranberries for a touch of sweetness. Raisins are fine too! If you want to skip the sugar, chopped apples can add a crunchy sweetness without the extra calories.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Well-Mixed and Tasty?
Mixing your salad so everything is coated evenly is important for flavor. Here are some tips to get it right:
- Start with a smooth dressing. Whisk the yogurt and spices together thoroughly before adding solid ingredients to ensure even flavor.
- Add shredded chicken and veggies gradually, folding them into the dressing gently. This helps avoid breaking the chicken.
- Bite-sized pieces of veggies make it easier to mix and create a balanced taste in every bite.
- Always taste before serving! Add a little more salt or pepper if it needs a punch. Remember, chilling it lets the flavors blend, so don’t skip that step!
Greek Yogurt Curry Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced or diced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Lettuce leaves or mixed greens, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prep. After mixing everything together, let it chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to combine the flavors. So, in total, you’re looking at approximately 45 minutes to get this tasty meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if you’re using it), curry powder, turmeric (if using), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Chicken and Veggies:
Next, add the shredded chicken, red onion, diced celery, cucumber, dried cranberries or raisins, and chopped cilantro or parsley. Mix gently using a spatula or spoon until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Season and Chill:
Take a moment to taste your salad! You can adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt, pepper, or curry powder to suit your taste. Once you’re happy with the flavors, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps all the great flavors come together!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, spoon the salad over a bed of fresh lettuce or mixed greens. Feel free to add extra cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. This curry chicken salad is perfect for a light lunch, as a sandwich filling, or served with crackers. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for even mixing.
Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative, like almond or coconut yogurt, to keep it creamy without the dairy. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors while accommodating dietary preferences!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a little stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
What If I Don’t Like Curry?
If curry isn’t your thing, try substituting with a different spice blend, like a dash of smoked paprika or cumin. You can also just season with salt and pepper for a simpler flavor profile!
