This Greek yogurt curry chicken salad is a tasty and healthy dish! With tender chicken, creamy yogurt, and a hint of curry spice, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
You can enjoy it in a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or just on its own—no judgment here! I love making extra to snack on during the week. It’s a win-win! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: This is the star of the recipe. It adds creaminess and a hint of tang. If you need a dairy-free version, you can choose coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt instead. Just make sure it’s unsweetened!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast works best, but any cooked chicken will do. You can also swap it for rotisserie chicken for convenience or replace it with chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Curry Powder: This gives the salad its unique flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your taste or try using garam masala for different spice notes. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the quantity.
Olives: I love using Kalamata olives for a briny kick, but green olives work too! If olives aren’t your thing, you can skip them or add chopped pickles for a different crunch.
What’s the Best Way to Shred Cooked Chicken?
Shredding chicken can be tricky, but it’s easy with these simple steps:
- Use leftover chicken breast or cook some fresh chicken in advance. Let it cool first.
- Grab two forks and pull the chicken apart in opposite directions, breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
- For a quick method, place cooked chicken in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment and mix on low speed until shredded.
- Whichever method you use, just aim for consistent size so it combines well in your salad!
Greek Yogurt Curry Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color and extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, chopped into small cubes
- 1/4 cup red or Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Overall, you can have this delicious dish ready to enjoy in just about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if you’re using it), curry powder, turmeric, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk or spoon to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well blended. This will serve as your flavorful dressing.
2. Combine With Chicken:
Add the shredded chicken breast to the bowl. Gently stir the chicken into the dressing until every piece is coated nicely. This ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.
3. Mix In Fresh Ingredients:
Next, fold in the chopped cucumber, olives, and fresh parsley. Be gentle to keep the cucumber’s crunch, but make sure everything is nicely distributed throughout the salad.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Before you chill it, taste your salad. If you want more zing, add a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to fit your preference. It’s all about making it just right for you!
5. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, it’s time to serve your salad! You can enjoy it on its own, over a bed of greens, or in a sandwich. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your refreshing and tasty Greek Yogurt Curry Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Plain Yogurt Instead of Greek Yogurt?
Yes, you can use plain yogurt if that’s what you have on hand! Just keep in mind that it will be a bit runnier than Greek yogurt, so you might want to adjust the quantity or add a little extra chicken to compensate for the difference in texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to stir it again before serving, as the ingredients may separate a bit while stored.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Chopped bell peppers, celery, or grated carrots would add nice crunch and flavor to the salad. Just add them in and mix well!
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad is versatile! It works well in a sandwich, on a wrap, or served over a bed of greens. Pair it with some pita chips or crackers for a delicious light lunch or snack!