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Creamy Curry Chicken Salad with Mango and Cashews Recipe

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4.1 from 76 reviews

This vibrant and creamy Curry Chicken Salad combines tender cooked chicken with a flavorful blend of curry powder, smoked paprika, and a zesty lime infusion. Enhanced with crunchy celery, sweet mango, golden raisins, and nuts, all wrapped in a luscious mayo, Greek yogurt, and avocado base, this quick and easy salad is perfect for a refreshing lunch or light dinner.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes plus 30 minutes chilling
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Dressing/Base

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ½ ripe avocado, mashed
  • 1½ teaspoons curry powder (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne powder (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Zest and juice of ½ lime
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Salad Mix

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • ¼ cup celery, finely diced
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup mango, diced
  • ¼ cup golden raisins
  • ¼ cup cashews or almonds, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Make the Creamy Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, curry powder, smoked paprika, cayenne powder (if using), honey, lime zest, and lime juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, creating a well-balanced, flavorful dressing.
  2. Add Crunch & Fruit: Gently fold in the shredded or cubed cooked chicken, finely diced celery, thinly sliced scallions, diced mango, golden raisins, and chopped nuts. Mix carefully until everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing, ensuring a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
  3. Fresh Finish: Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro to keep its bright and fresh flavor intact, enhancing the salad’s aroma and visual appeal.
  4. Chill & Serve: Cover the salad and let it chill for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled on lettuce wraps, croissants, or with crackers as desired for a light and satisfying meal or appetizer.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation and extra flavor.
  • Adjust curry powder and cayenne to your preferred spice level.
  • Substitute cashews with almonds or walnuts according to preference.
  • For extra creaminess, ensure the avocado is ripe and well mashed.
  • This salad can be made a few hours ahead for convenience; just add cilantro right before serving.
  • Serve as a sandwich filling, on crackers, or over mixed greens for variety.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American