Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad – A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

Looking to elevate your regular chicken salad? Ina Garten’s curried chicken salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed variation that brings together tender roasted chicken, sweet fruit, crunchy nuts, and a creamy, spiced dressing. It’s perfect for lunches, picnics, or a light dinner served over greens or tucked into sandwiches.

What sets this version apart is the subtle heat of curry powder balanced with sweet chutney and crisp celery, making it both refreshing and comforting.

What Is Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad?

Ina Garten’s curried chicken salad is a creamy and mildly spicy dish made with roasted chicken breast, a flavorful curry-infused mayo dressing, and additions like raisins, nuts, and celery for texture and contrast. It’s a gourmet-level salad that can be served chilled and enjoyed as a light main or hearty side.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Chicken Chili
• Ina Garten Cioppino
• Ina Garten Jambalaya
• Ina Garten Sugar Cookie
• Ina Garten Boneless Ribeye Roast

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad

• Packed with flavor – Curry powder and mango chutney add a warm, sweet-spicy kick
• Great for meal prep – Keeps well in the fridge for easy lunches
• Versatile serving options – Works in sandwiches, wraps, or over greens
• Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples and easy-to-find items
• No boring bites – Every spoonful includes a mix of crunch, creaminess, and spice
• Perfect for warm weather – A chilled salad that feels light yet filling
• Elegant and crowd-pleasing – Great for potlucks or brunch spreads

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad

• 3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ cups mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup mango chutney
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup diced celery
• ¼ cup sliced scallions
• ½ cup golden raisins
• ½ cup chopped toasted cashews or almonds
• Mixed salad greens or sandwich bread, for serving

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad

Step 1: Roast the chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on a sheet pan and roast for 30–35 minutes, or until cooked through. Let them cool, then cut into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Prepare the dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mango chutney, curry powder, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add the mix-ins

Stir in diced celery, scallions, golden raisins, and chopped nuts. Fold in the cubed chicken and gently toss to coat everything evenly in the dressing.

Step 4: Chill and serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Serve chilled over a bed of greens, with crackers, or inside sandwich rolls.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad

• Buttery croissants or sandwich rolls – Makes a gourmet sandwich
• Mixed green salad – Lightens up the meal with crisp freshness
• Pita bread or wraps – A portable and modern serving style
• Fruit salad or grapes – Enhances the sweetness and complements curry
• Chilled white wine or iced tea – Refreshes the palate and balances spices
• Cucumber spears or sliced tomatoes – Adds cooling contrast to the spices
• Crackers or flatbreads – Great for a picnic or appetizer platter

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad

• Roast your chicken for best flavor – Adds depth compared to boiling or poaching
• Use real mango chutney – It adds both sweetness and tanginess to the dressing
• Toast the nuts – Toasting enhances their crunch and nutty flavor
• Let it chill before serving – The salad tastes better once the flavors meld
• Adjust curry to taste – Start with less and add more for desired heat
• Use golden raisins for a sweet touch – They balance the savory flavors
• Dice everything evenly – Ensures each bite has a balanced texture

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad

• Swap raisins with chopped dried apricots – Adds a unique sweetness
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo – For a lighter, tangy version
• Add diced apples or grapes – For extra crunch and sweetness
• Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro – Brightens up the flavor profile
• Add a dash of cayenne – For more heat if desired
• Serve in lettuce cups – For a low-carb, elegant presentation
• Top with crunchy fried onions – Adds a crispy, savory finish

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps fresh for up to 3 days
• Don’t freeze – The mayo-based dressing may separate upon thawing
• Store toppings separately – If using nuts or onions, add them just before serving
• Stir before serving again – Dressing may settle and need redistribution
• Keep chilled at all times – Especially important for food safety

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad

• Do not reheat – This is a cold salad meant to be served chilled
• Allow to come to room temperature slightly – If too cold from the fridge
• Refresh with extra lemon juice or chutney – If flavors seem dull after storage
• Add fresh toppings before serving again – Keeps texture crisp

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 550mg

This salad is high in protein and rich in flavor, offering a satisfying meal without feeling heavy.

FAQs

Can curried chicken salad be made in advance?

Yes, curried chicken salad can be made up to 2 days in advance. In fact, the flavor improves as it chills. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a gentle stir before serving.

What can I use instead of mango chutney in curried chicken salad?

If you don’t have mango chutney, you can substitute with apricot preserves or peach jam mixed with a splash of vinegar for similar sweetness and tang. It won’t be identical, but it will still complement the curry flavor.

Is Ina Garten’s curried chicken salad served hot or cold?

Ina Garten’s curried chicken salad is served cold. It’s best enjoyed chilled after allowing the flavors to meld in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for curried chicken salad?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient substitute. Simply shred or cube the meat and mix it directly into the curried dressing. It’s a great time-saver without compromising flavor.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s curried chicken salad is a brilliant twist on a traditional favorite. With its creamy curry dressing, tender roasted chicken, and satisfying mix of textures, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

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