This Greek yogurt curry chicken salad is a refreshing twist on a classic dish! With tender chicken, creamy yogurt, and a hint of curry spice, it’s both tasty and healthy.
I love how quick this salad comes together. Just mix everything and enjoy! Serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun lunch, or use it in a sandwich—great for any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: This is the star of the dish! It’s healthier than mayonnaise and adds a nice tang. If you want a lighter option, use non-fat Greek yogurt, or try a dairy-free yogurt if you’re lactose intolerant.
Curry Powder: A mix of spices that gives this salad its unique flavor. If you don’t have curry powder, you can use garam masala or a combination of turmeric and cumin for a similar taste.
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken works best. You can easily substitute it with rotisserie chicken for convenience or use cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Dried Cranberries/Raisins: These add a hint of sweetness. You could also use chopped apples or grapes for a fresh twist. If you prefer no sugar, skip them altogether!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Salad is Creamy and Flavorful?
To make the perfect creamy and flavorful chicken salad, start by blending the Greek yogurt with the curry powder and lemon juice. This creates a zesty dressing. If you’d like extra creaminess, add the optional mayonnaise.
- Combine the yogurt and spices before adding chicken; this ensures every piece is coated.
- Mix in ingredients gently to keep the chicken tender.
- Let it chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This rest time is key, as it allows the flavors to meld nicely.
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 tablespoon curry powder
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, and you’ll want to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help the flavors combine. So, plan for about 45 minutes total, and enjoy a delicious, refreshing salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large bowl, start by mixing the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if you’re using it), curry powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This will be the flavorful base for your salad!
2. Add the Chicken:
Next, add in your shredded cooked chicken. Using a spatula or a spoon, mix gently until the chicken pieces are nicely coated with the dressing.
3. Fold in the Veggies and Fruits:
Now it’s time to add some crunch and sweetness! Fold in the finely chopped red onion, diced cucumber, diced celery, and dried cranberries or raisins. Add the chopped fresh parsley as well. Carefully mix until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Season to Taste:
Give your salad a taste! You can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or curry powder if you’d like. Make it just right for you!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors combine beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out into bowls or use it as a filling in sandwiches or lettuce wraps. Enjoy your delicious Greek yogurt curry chicken salad!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
The salad will keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. After that, the freshness of the ingredients, especially the cucumber, may start to decline.
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad is great for meal prep. Just prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt if I Don’t Have Any?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute regular yogurt, but keep in mind it may alter the consistency slightly. Sour cream can also work as a substitute for a tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try a coconut or almond-based yogurt!
