My dear friend Christine introduced our family to this dish when she brought us dinner after my son was born. At my house we call it “Auntie Christine’s Chicken Curry,” and when it is announced as the answer to “What’s for dinner tonight?” both of my kids celebrate. This recipe is actually a double batch, but don’t waste your time making a single batch….it actually tastes even better on the second day. It serves a larger group easily, and based on my experience (and Christine’s, and her sister’s experience who shared it with her) you will get many requests for the recipe.
Pro Tip: add the grapes and cashews to each person’s serving as a topping (don’t mix it in). Each person can top it to their liking, and then when you re-heat the leftovers, you won’t have exploding grapes and chewy cashews in the microwave.
Curry Chicken Salad
Serves 6-8 people
Ingredients:
This recipe uses measurement ranges because it is a completely flexible recipe..adjust it based on what you have on hand, and to your taste preferences!
2 boxes Rice/Orzo Pilaf Mix, approximately 7 oz. each (available at Target, Trader Joe’s and most grocery stores near the rice and pasta), **plus any ingredients listed on the box to prepare pilaf as directed**
1 c. to 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great, or any poached chicken you have on hand)
1/4 c. to 1/2 c. Miracle Whip or Mayonnaise (whichever you have on hand)
1/2 T. to 1 T. curry powder (we use a generous 1/2 T. at my house)
1 c. to 2 cups of red grapes, cut into pieces
1/4 c. cashew pieces (or whole cashews)
- Prepare Rice/Orzo Pilaf mixes as directed on the box.
- While cooking the pilaf, shred or cut your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also work ahead and cut your grapes in half or quarters.
- After pilaf mix is done, add chicken, Miracle Whip (or mayonnaise) and curry powder to the pan. Mix well.
- Portion out individually. Serve with grapes and cashews for each diner to top their bowl as they prefer.
This dish tastes great hot, straight from the pan. It also tastes great cold, making it a great meal in the summer.
If you don’t have cashews on hand, we have also used almonds as a topping. We haven’t found a good substitute for the grapes, though.
Enjoy!!
