This chicken salad offers a fresh twist on a classic, blending tender chicken with crisp apples, candied pecans, and a creamy maple-curry dressing. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it ideal for autumn lunches, gatherings, or quick dinners. The recipe is inspired by a cafe dish the author enjoyed years ago and has since recreated for a comforting yet special meal.
Ingredients and Preparation
The salad is straightforward to make, relying on a mix of common ingredients.
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is recommended for ease.
- Vegetables: Celery and green onions provide crunch and freshness.
- Dressings: Mayonnaise, sour cream, curry powder, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard create a unique flavor profile.
- Fruits & Nuts: Apples (honey-crisp or similar) and pecans (candied or honey-roasted) add texture and sweetness. Golden raisins or cranberries complete the mix.
The key to this salad lies in letting the curry powder infuse the flavors after chilling. Adding the apples and nuts just before serving preserves their crunchiness.
Serving and Storage Tips
This chicken salad is versatile: serve it on croissants, bread, lettuce wraps, or crackers. It can be prepared a day in advance for enhanced flavor; just wait to add the fresh ingredients until serving. Leftovers last up to three days in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Serving Options: Enjoy the salad with crackers, on greens, or in a tortilla wrap.
- Nut Substitutions: Almonds, walnuts, or cashews can be used instead of pecans.
- Make-Ahead Preparation: The salad tastes better after chilling for several hours, so feel free to make it in advance.
- Chicken Choice: Rotisserie chicken is convenient, but any cooked chicken will work.
- Yogurt Substitution: Greek yogurt can replace some or all of the sour cream for a tangier flavor.
- Storage Duration: The salad stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
This Curried Maple Chicken Salad combines familiar ingredients in a unique way, making it a flavorful and convenient dish for any occasion. The blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors ensures a satisfying meal that is both comforting and refreshing.
