Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins and Almonds

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins and Almonds is a vibrant twist on classic chicken salad, blending savory, sweet, and warmly spiced flavors into one irresistible dish. Tender chicken is coated in a creamy curry-infused dressing, then paired with sweet raisins and crunchy almonds for a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.

This recipe draws inspiration from Indian and Western fusion cuisine, using curry powder to add depth without overwhelming the dish. It’s refreshing yet satisfying, light enough for lunch but flavorful enough to feel special. Whether served chilled on a croissant, wrapped in lettuce, or spooned over greens, this curried chicken salad is a standout recipe that never fails to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s bold, balanced, and incredibly versatile. The curry adds warmth, the raisins bring natural sweetness, and the almonds add crunch—all working together perfectly. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dish that tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.

It’s one of those recipes that feels elegant yet comforting at the same time.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Unique blend of savory, sweet, and spiced flavors
• Perfect for meal prep and make-ahead lunches
• Great served cold or at room temperature
• Works well in sandwiches, wraps, or salads
• Simple ingredients with big flavor payoff

If you enjoy chicken salad but want something more exciting, this version is a must-try.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Salad / Lunch / Light Main
• Cuisine: Fusion (American-Indian inspired)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes (if cooking chicken)
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approx. 360 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for lighter texture)
• 1½ teaspoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Add-Ins

• ⅓ cup raisins
• ¼ cup sliced or chopped almonds, lightly toasted
• ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons red onion or green onion, finely chopped

Cooking Directions

1. Cook and cool chicken if needed
2. Prepare curry dressing
3. Combine chicken with dressing
4. Fold in raisins, almonds, and vegetables
5. Chill and serve

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Chicken (If Needed)

• Boil, bake, or roast chicken breasts until fully cooked.
• Let cool completely, then dice or shred.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

• In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), curry powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Dressing

• Add the chicken to the bowl and gently toss to coat evenly.

Step 4: Add Mix-Ins

• Fold in raisins, almonds, celery, and onion until well combined.

Step 5: Chill

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.

How to Serve

• Serve on croissants, sandwich bread, or wraps
• Spoon into lettuce cups for a low-carb option
• Serve over mixed greens or spinach
• Enjoy as a chilled picnic or potluck dish

Recipe Tips

• Toast almonds for deeper flavor and extra crunch
• Adjust curry powder to taste—start mild and build
• Chill before serving for best flavor
• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
• Add a splash of apple juice for subtle sweetness

Variations

Mango Curried Chicken Salad

Add diced fresh mango for tropical sweetness.

Spicy Curried Chicken Salad

Mix in cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño.

Vegan Curried “Chicken” Salad

Use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken.

Apple Walnut Version

Replace raisins with diced apples and almonds with walnuts.

Lightened-Up Version

Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days

Freezer

• Not recommended due to mayonnaise and yogurt base.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins and Almonds is a flavorful, elegant twist on a classic favorite. Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and warmly spiced, this dish offers a refreshing change from traditional chicken salad while remaining comforting and familiar.

Perfect for lunches, picnics, or light dinners, this recipe is easy to prepare, beautifully balanced, and endlessly adaptable. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.