This Greek Yogurt Curry Chicken Salad is a tasty twist on a classic! It’s creamy, zesty, and packed with flavor from the curry spice and crunchy veggies.
I love making this for lunch since it’s light yet filling. Plus, it’s a hit when I share it with friends. Who can resist a salad this delicious? 😃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast for this salad. It can be shredded or chopped. If you’re in a hurry, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that still tastes great!
Greek Yogurt: This is the base for the dressing. If you want a dairy-free option, try using almond or coconut yogurt instead. Just ensure it’s plain to maintain that tangy flavor!
Curry Powder: This adds that signature spice. If you prefer a milder taste, use a little less or try garam masala for a different flavor profile.
Celery & Cucumber: They add crunch and freshness. If you don’t have these on hand, finely chopped apples can add a sweet crunch, too. Try different textures!
Dried Cranberries: These contribute sweetness. Raisins can substitute, or even chopped nuts like cashews for a different crunch. Experiment to find your favorite!
How Do I Make This Salad Extra Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to a deliciously creamy salad is in how you mix the dressing. Combine the Greek yogurt, curry powder, and other spices in a bowl and whisk until it’s perfectly smooth. Here are some quick tips:
- Use room temperature yogurt to help it blend better.
- Feel free to add a tablespoon of yogurt or mayonnaise to reach your desired creaminess.
- Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes really allows the flavors to come alive. So, don’t skip this part!
Mix gently with the chicken and veggies so everything stays nice and chunky, enhancing texture and taste.
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 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or raisins
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup cucumber, peeled and diced (optional)
- Mixed greens, kale, or lettuce to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’re looking at a total time of around 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick, yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise (if you’re using it) along with curry powder, ground turmeric, lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything until it’s smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing is the heart of your salad!
2. Combine Chicken and Dressing:
Now, add your shredded chicken to the bowl with the yogurt curry dressing. Gently toss the chicken so every piece is nicely coated in the flavorful dressing.
3. Mix in the Crunchy Veggies:
Next, stir in the diced celery, dried cranberries or raisins, chopped cilantro, and diced cucumber (if using). Be gentle to ensure all the ingredients mix evenly while keeping the textures intact.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste and tweak the seasoning if needed! You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice based on your preference.
5. Serve the Salad:
To serve, place a generous scoop of your curry chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens, kale, or your favorite lettuce. This adds a fresh crunch and makes it visually appealing!
6. Garnish and Chill:
Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro and cranberries on top for garnish if you’d like! Cover the bowl and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let those delicious flavors mingle.
7. Enjoy:
Once chilled, dig in and enjoy this refreshing and flavorful Greek Yogurt Curry Chicken Salad! It’s great as a light lunch or packed into a sandwich!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works great in this recipe. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing!
How Long Will the Salad Last in the Fridge?
The Greek Yogurt Curry Chicken Salad will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Just give it a quick stir before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, use shredded jackfruit or chickpeas in place of chicken, and swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt alternative. Adjust spices to your taste!
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs beautifully with whole grain bread for a sandwich, or you can serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a light meal. For extra crunch, consider adding some sliced almonds or sunflower seeds on top!