Easy Curry Chicken Salad Recipe {protein packed}

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This Curry Chicken Salad Recipe is protein-packed, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy it in wraps, sandwiches, or salads!

chicken salad made with curry spice, raisins, and celery

If you’re looking for a delicious recipe that is quick, nutritious, and packed with flavor, this Curry Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need! With a perfect balance of creamy mayo, crunchy celery, and a blend of spices like madras curry powder, this dish is a great way to switch up your typical classic chicken salad. Whether you use poached chicken, roast chicken, or leftover rotisserie chicken, this recipe is adaptable and works with whatever you have on hand.

This easy recipe is ideal for meal prep, making it a great option for a protein-packed lunch or a light summer meal. You can enjoy it in a lettuce wrap, on endive spears, or as a filling in a sandwich. The golden raisins provide a touch of sweetness that complements the earthy spices beautifully. So, if you’re a college student looking for a quick meal or someone who loves easy lunch ideas, this curried chicken salad recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this easy chicken salad recipe! Here’s why it’s a personal favorite for many:

Protein-Packed: With shredded chicken as the main ingredient, this salad is loaded with protein, making it a great option for those looking for a filling meal.
Quick & Easy: Using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time, so you can have this dish ready in minutes.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch on Sunday night, and enjoy it throughout the week. It stores well in an airtight container.
Versatile & Customizable: Swap the cup mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt or vegan mayo to suit your diet. Add in extras like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of turmeric and curry spices gives this salad an aromatic and rich taste, while the crisp celery and red bell pepper add freshness and a pop of color.

A Breakdown of the Ingredients

Understanding each ingredient in this delicious recipe helps you see why it works so well:

Rotisserie Chicken: The tender chicken absorbs the curry dressing beautifully. You can also use chicken breasts, chicken thighs, or even poached chicken if you prefer.
Celery: Adds a crunchy texture that balances the creamy mayo. Choose celery ribs for the best crispness.
Light Mayo: The base of the dressing that makes this salad creamy. Swap with vegan mayo or plain Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
Raisins: Golden raisins or regular raisins add a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory curry spices.
Curry Powder: A blend of turmeric and other earthy spices that give this salad its signature flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness. Consider using sea salt for added minerals.

Optional add-ins for extra flavor:

Red Pepper: For a hint of spice and a pop of color.
Sunflower Seeds or Pumpkin Seeds: Adds extra crunch.
Fresh Cilantro: Brightens up the salad with a fresh, herby note.
Pinch of Cayenne Pepper: If you like a bit of heat!

How to Make This Curry Chicken Salad Recipe

Making this easy recipe is as simple as mixing everything in a large bowl! Follow these steps for the best results:

Prepare the Chicken: Shred your leftover rotisserie chicken using two forks or chop it by hand into bite-sized pieces.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crunchy celery, golden raisins, light mayo, curry powder, salt, and black pepper.

ingredients for curry chicken salad ready to be combined

Stir everything well until evenly coated.
Taste & Adjust: If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more curry flavors. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a little more creamy mayo.
Serve & Enjoy: Enjoy this curried chicken salad recipe in a lettuce wrap, on a sandwich, with crackers, or even over iceberg lettuce for a refreshing salad.

curry chicken salad served on a sandwich

How to Store the Recipe

Proper storage ensures that your best chicken salad stays fresh:

Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Next Day Flavor: The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Avoid Freezing: The cup mayonnaise may separate and change the texture when frozen.

Check Out My Other Chicken Salad Recipes

chicken salad recipe made with green goddess dressing — Green Goddess Chicken Salad

easy chicken salad made with rotisserie chicken — Green Goddess Chicken Salad

Tips for Making the Recipe

Choose Different Brands: Experiment with different brands of madras curry powder to find your personal favorite blend.
Customize the Creaminess: Use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a tangy twist or mix vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped crisp celery and red bell pepper add crunch and flavor.
Add Nuts or Seeds: For extra texture, try pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped almonds.
Make It a Meal Prep Staple: This salad is great for meal prep—just store it in individual portions for an easy lunch all week!

This curried chicken salad recipe is one of the great recipes to have in your meal rotation. It’s easy, customizable, and a perfect balance of flavors. Next time you’re at the grocery store, grab some simple ingredients and whip up this easy lunch that’s guaranteed to become a favorite!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes! You can use poached chicken, chicken breasts, or chicken thighs—just make sure they’re cooked and shredded before mixing.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Try plain Greek yogurt, vegan mayo, or a blend of both for a healthier option.

What are some different ways to serve this salad?

You can serve it in a lettuce wrap, with crackers, on iceberg lettuce, in a sandwich, or even in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.

How do I adjust the spice level?

For a milder taste, use less curry powder. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.