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Fruity Curry Chicken Salad

Section: Fresh and Vibrant Salad Recipes

This fruity curry chicken salad brings together tender pieces of chicken with a medley of crisp apples, sweet grapes, and golden raisins, all tossed in a creamy, curry-spiced dressing. Crunchy nuts and colorful bell peppers add layers of texture and flavor, while fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime brighten each bite. Versatile enough for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or platters, it’s a crowd-pleaser ready in just 15 minutes. Make ahead for easy lunches or serve at gatherings for a memorable dish packed with protein, vibrant produce, and appealing textures.

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A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Recipe Author Maria
Updated as of Tue, 10 Jun 2025 19:50:14 GMT
A bowl of chicken salad with tomatoes, corn, and black olives. Bookmark
A bowl of chicken salad with tomatoes, corn, and black olives. | foodbymary.com

This fruity curry chicken salad became my go-to for potlucks after I first tossed it together for a family picnic. With its tropical sweetness, savory chicken, and mild curry warmth, this salad makes every meal feel just a bit more festive and special. The textures and colors brighten any table and the flavors get better as they mingle.

My cousins claim this is now their favorite chicken salad after one summer backyard party. The sweet grape and apple crunch alongside creamy curry dressing had everyone going back for seconds.

Ingredients

  • Cooked chicken: Choose rotisserie or poached for tender texture and speed Rotisserie gives the richest flavor
  • Red grapes: Plump and seedless add bursts of sweet juice Look for unblemished glossy skins
  • Granny Smith apple: Adds crisp tart crunch Select firm apples without soft spots
  • Celery: Provides fresh crunch and balances rich mayo Stalks should snap when bent
  • Slivered almonds or cashews: Toast lightly for maximum flavor and extra crunch Buy unsalted and lightly golden
  • Mayonnaise: Creamy base for the dressing Opt for full fat for best mouthfeel
  • Greek yogurt: Brightens the salad and cuts richness Use plain and thick style for best results
  • Madras curry powder: Source a fresh aromatic blend for gentle heat Avoid blends past their prime
  • Lime juice: Wakes up flavors and prevents fruit browning Use freshly squeezed if possible
  • Cilantro or parsley: Fresh chopped herbs boost brightness Choose vibrant green leaves
  • Mango chutney: Optional for deeper, sweet and spicy notes Read ingredient labels and pick a thick style

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Chicken:
Cool cooked chicken completely in the fridge after roasting or poaching Shred or dice into small uniform pieces for even distribution and best bite
Make the Dressing:
Whisk mayonnaise Greek yogurt curry powder lime juice and optional mango chutney in a large bowl Start with a teaspoon of curry and add more in small amounts until you reach your preferred flavor
Combine Ingredients:
Add chicken into the bowl and gently mix to coat every piece completely This step is where the chicken absorbs all the flavors from the dressing
Fold in Fruits and Veggies:
Gently mix in diced apple sliced grapes celery and herbs Take care not to break the fruit which keeps the salad beautiful and vibrant
Add Crunch:
Fold toasted almonds or cashews in last to preserve their crunch and avoid sogginess Taste and add more salt or curry if needed
Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate at least one hour This helps flavors meld and makes the salad easier to serve Cold salad also has the best texture for sandwiches and wraps
A salad with chicken, tomatoes, corn, and olives. Bookmark
A salad with chicken, tomatoes, corn, and olives. | foodbymary.com

I am obsessed with the curry powder in this recipe It brings out the sweetness in the fruit and chicken in a way nothing else does One of my fondest memories is sharing this salad with my nieces at a sunny family brunch their faces lighting up with the first bite

Storage Tips

Always use a glass or high quality plastic container with a tight fitting lid Store the salad in the coldest part of the fridge and keep crunchy toppings like nuts separate until right before serving This keeps everything tasting fresh and crisp for up to four days If liquid collects at the bottom just stir before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter salad swap half the mayonnaise for more Greek yogurt If you need dairy free just use your favorite vegan mayo Try chopped pears or mango for the fruit or swap in roasted sunflower seeds for a nut free crunch For a vegetarian version use chickpeas instead of chicken

A bowl of salad with chicken, tomatoes, corn, and olives. Bookmark
A bowl of salad with chicken, tomatoes, corn, and olives. | foodbymary.com

Serving Suggestions

Pile onto your favorite grainy bread croissants or bagels for sandwiches For a low carb meal spoon into lettuce wraps or serve on a bed of greens For parties arrange the salad in halved avocados or hollowed apple cups and sprinkle with extra herbs Serve with fresh lime wedges for an extra pop

Cultural and Historical Context

This salad carries British colonial influences with its curry powder and fruit pairing which were once a symbol of exotic luxury Many classic chicken salads draw from this tradition blending local favorites with imported spices It is a dish that adapts easily to any season or gathering from Victorian tea tables to summer picnics

I learned not to skimp on fresh lime juice the acid is what really ties everything together and makes each flavor pop

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What fruits work best in this salad?

Red grapes, Granny Smith apples, and golden raisins offer sweetness, crunch, and color. Diced mango or pineapple can add extra brightness.

→ Can I make it dairy- or gluten-free?

Yes, swap regular mayonnaise for plant-based options and ensure curry powder is gluten free. The dish is naturally gluten free if made with safe ingredients.

→ How long does this salad keep fresh in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 4 days. For maximum crunch, add nuts and any extra fruit just before serving.

→ What type of chicken is best?

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor, or poached/roasted chicken breast or thigh for customizable texture and richness.

→ How can I adjust the curry flavor?

Begin with a smaller amount of curry powder and add more to taste. Madras curry powder provides extra heat, while a mild blend keeps it gentle.

→ What are some serving ideas?

Serve in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, apple halves, or over greens. Garnish with chopped cilantro or nuts for extra flair.

Fruity Curry Chicken Salad

Tender chicken, juicy fruits, and aromatic curry blend for a colorful, protein-rich meal ready in minutes.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
~
Overall Time
15 minutes
Recipe Author: Maria

Dish Category: Salads

Recipe Difficulty: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine: Fusion

Serves: 6 Serving Size (Serves 6 as sandwiches or 4 as main salad plates)

Dietary Options: Gluten-Free

What You’ll Need to Cook

→ Protein

Ingredient 01 400 g cooked chicken breast and thigh, diced or shredded

→ Fruits

Ingredient 02 125 g red grapes, halved
Ingredient 03 1 Granny Smith apple, cored and chopped into 0.5 cm cubes
Ingredient 04 50 g dried cranberries or golden raisins

→ Vegetables

Ingredient 05 2 celery stalks, finely diced
Ingredient 06 2 spring onions, thinly sliced

→ Nuts and Seeds

Ingredient 07 40 g roasted cashews, roughly chopped
Ingredient 08 20 g slivered almonds, lightly toasted

→ Herbs

Ingredient 09 2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped

→ Dressing

Ingredient 10 80 g mayonnaise
Ingredient 11 60 g Greek yogurt
Ingredient 12 1.5 tbsp Madras curry powder
Ingredient 13 2 tbsp mango chutney
Ingredient 14 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
Ingredient 15 1 tsp mild honey
Ingredient 16 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
Ingredient 17 1/4 tsp black pepper

Steps to Prepare

Step 01

Wash, dice, and measure all fruit, vegetables, and herbs. Dice or shred the chilled, cooked chicken. Toast nuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden, then allow to cool.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, curry powder, mango chutney, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 03

Add the diced or shredded chicken to the bowl and stir thoroughly to ensure all pieces are coated in the curry dressing.

Step 04

Gently fold in chopped apple, halved grapes, dried cranberries or raisins, celery, and spring onions. Mix just until evenly distributed.

Step 05

Add cashews, slivered almonds, and chopped coriander. Fold gently to preserve crunch and freshness.

Step 06

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to develop. Serve cold in sandwiches, lettuce cups, on a salad platter, or with your choice of garnish.

Extra Cooking Tips

  1. For maximum flavor and best texture, add toasted nuts just before serving to retain their crunch.
  2. The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days if stored in an airtight container.
  3. For a lighter version, substitute more Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise.

Must-Have Tools

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Chopping board
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula

Allergen Information

Always check ingredient labels for allergens and seek expert advice if uncertain.
  • Contains tree nuts (cashews, almonds)
  • Contains eggs (mayonnaise)
  • Contains dairy (Greek yogurt or traditional mayonnaise made with dairy)

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for guidance and aren’t a replacement for professional advice.
  • Calories Count: 378
  • Fats: 27 grams
  • Carbs: 12 grams
  • Proteins: 23 grams