Zesty Curry Chicken Salad with Cilantro
This Zesty Curry Chicken Salad with Cilantro is a flavorful twist on traditional chicken salad. Combining creamy mayonnaise, aromatic curry powder, and fresh cilantro, this salad is the perfect blend of spice and freshness. It’s an ideal choice for a light lunch or a refreshing snack, served on crisp lettuce leaves. The addition of green onions and celery adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a tantalizing experience.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
mayonnaise
1 cup (none)
curry powder
2 teaspoons (none)
green onions
2 tablespoons (minced)
celery
1/4 cup (minced)
cilantro
1/4 cup (chopped)
chicken
4 cups (chopped, cooked)
salt
to taste (none)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
lettuce leaves
as needed (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, curry powder, minced green onions, minced celery, and chopped cilantro.
2
Add the chopped cooked chicken to the mixture and stir until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the curried mayonnaise mixture.
3
Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
4
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5
Serve the chilled curry chicken salad atop fresh lettuce leaves for a crisp and refreshing meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Curry Chicken Salad with Cilantro?
It is a flavorful twist on traditional chicken salad that combines creamy mayonnaise, aromatic curry powder, and fresh cilantro.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include mayonnaise, curry powder, green onions, celery, cilantro, cooked chicken, salt, black pepper, and lettuce leaves.
How do I prepare the dressing for the salad?
In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, curry powder, minced green onions, minced celery, and chopped cilantro.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What kind of chicken should be used?
The recipe calls for 4 cups of chopped, cooked chicken.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is an excellent way to save time.
How much curry powder is needed?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of curry powder.
What provides the crunch in this chicken salad?
The minced celery and green onions provide a delightful crunch in every bite.
Do I need to cook the celery or onions?
No, the celery and green onions should be used raw and minced for the best texture.
How long should the salad be chilled before serving?
The salad should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Why is it important to chill the chicken salad?
Chilling allows the aromatic flavors of the curry and cilantro to meld together properly.
How is this curry chicken salad typically served?
It is best served chilled atop fresh, crisp lettuce leaves.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
While mayonnaise provides the creamy base, you could try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise alternative.
Is this recipe spicy?
It is aromatic and flavorful; the spice level depends on the specific brand of curry powder you use.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is recommended for its vibrant flavor and freshness, which defines the 'zesty' aspect of the salad.
What else can I serve this salad with besides lettuce?
You can serve it in a wrap, on a croissant, or with your favorite crackers.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients are generally gluten-free, but you should verify that your mayonnaise and curry powder labels confirm they are gluten-free.
Can I add fruit to this recipe?
Yes, many people enjoy adding grapes or chopped apples to curry chicken salad for a touch of sweetness.
How long will this salad stay fresh in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, it should remain fresh for 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended because the mayonnaise-based dressing can separate and change texture upon thawing.
What is the best way to prep the green onions?
The green onions should be finely minced before being added to the mixture.
How much mayonnaise is used?
The recipe uses 1 cup of mayonnaise.
What are the tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include curry chicken salad, cilantro, lunch recipe, healthy snack, and quick meal.
Is this considered a quick meal?
Yes, as long as the chicken is already cooked, it is a fast and easy assembly process.
Can I add nuts for extra texture?
Yes, sliced almonds or cashews would pair very well with the curry flavor profile.
How much celery is required?
You will need 1/4 cup of minced celery.
Is there a specific serving size mentioned?
The recipe data indicates it serves 4 people, but a specific weight or volume per serving is not provided.
What category of food is this?
It is categorized under Lunch and Snacks.
How do I season the salad?
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
What makes this salad 'zesty'?
The combination of fresh cilantro, aromatic curry powder, and crisp green onions creates its zesty profile.