If you’re anything like me, there are a few things in life you can always count on, and one of them is Ina Garten delivering a recipe that never fails. Her warm, approachable style and love of comfort food make her dishes feel like a hug on a plate, and this Ina Garten Curry Chicken Salad is no exception.
Inspired by her classic Barefoot Contessa version, this recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something rich, flavorful, and totally crave-worthy. Whether you’re prepping lunch for the week, hosting a casual brunch, or just want a quick no-fuss meal that actually satisfies, this chicken salad hits all the right notes.
What makes this version extra special? I’ve taken the core of Ina’s original and added a few subtle upgrades, nothing crazy, just smart tweaks that bring out even more flavor, texture, and freshness.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- A breakdown of Ina’s original ingredients (with my easy substitutions)
- Step-by-step instructions with helpful tips
- Storage, serving ideas, and meal prep hacks
- Answers to common questions about curry chicken salad
Whether you’re a longtime Ina Garten fan, new to curry chicken salad, or just looking for your next go-to lunch recipe, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in and make the best version of this delicious dish, one you’ll come back to again and again.
Table of Contents
What Makes This Curry Chicken Salad So Special?
There’s a reason why Ina Garten’s curry chicken salad has become a classic. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy enough to serve at a luncheon, but easy enough to toss together on a busy weeknight. It’s bold, creamy, crunchy, a little sweet, and full of flavor, everything you want in a chicken salad.
So, what makes this one stand out?
It starts with perfectly cooked chicken, either roasted at home or picked up from the store (yes, rotisserie chicken totally works!). Then there’s the creamy base made with good mayonnaise (Ina’s favorite), balanced with warm curry powder, crisp celery, sweet red grapes, and just the right amount of salt and pepper.
But here’s where it gets even better.
In this version, we stay true to the Barefoot Contessa spirit but add a few smart tweaks to level it up:
- Toasted almonds for extra crunch and nuttiness
- A dollop of Greek yogurt to lighten it up without losing creaminess
- A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
- Optional fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley if you want a fresh pop
These little touches make the salad feel a bit more modern, while keeping everything you already love about the original.
Plus, it’s one of those recipes that gets better as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep or hosting. And because it’s packed with protein and flavor, it works whether you’re spooning it over salad greens, stuffing it into a croissant, or eating it straight from the bowl (no judgment here!).
Trust me, once you try it this way, it’s going to be hard to go back.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s made with simple, everyday ingredients, but when they come together, the flavor is anything but ordinary. Here’s exactly what you’ll need to recreate Ina Garten’s curry chicken salad, plus a few optional add-ins that make it even better.
🧺 Core Ingredients (Ina’s Original Base)
These are the stars of the show, straight from Ina’s Barefoot Contessa recipe:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (roasted or rotisserie works great)
- 1 cup good-quality mayonnaise (Ina swears by Hellmann’s or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon curry powder (choose a mild or medium blend depending on your spice preference)
- ½ cup diced celery (adds crunch and freshness)
- ¼ cup chopped scallions (white and light green parts)
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved (for that perfect sweet bite)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re roasting your own chicken, season it simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper, nothing too bold, so the curry flavor shines later.
✨ Optional Add-Ins (My Signature Upgrades)
These aren’t in Ina’s original version, but they take the dish to the next level:
- ¼ cup toasted slivered almonds or chopped cashews – adds a rich crunch
- 1–2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt – lightens it up and adds tang
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – brightens the whole dish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped – optional, but a nice herby touch
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric or a pinch of cayenne – for an extra layer of spice if you like heat
These additions are completely optional, so feel free to stick with the classic or make it your own based on what’s in your fridge.
How to Make Ina Garten’s Curry Chicken Salad (Step-by-Step with Pro Tips)
This recipe is as simple as it is satisfying. You don’t need fancy equipment or chef-level skills, just a big bowl, fresh ingredients, and about 15 minutes of your time (less if your chicken is already cooked!).
Here’s how to pull it all together:
✅ Step 1: Prep the Chicken
If you’re using leftover roasted chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken, simply dice or shred it into bite-sized pieces. Aim for about 3 cups of cooked chicken.
🔥 Pro Tip: If you’re roasting your own, season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes or until fully cooked. Let it cool completely before chopping, warm chicken will make the salad watery.
✅ Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional but recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
💡 Flavor Tip: Let the curry powder “bloom” in the mayo for a minute, it helps release more of that warm, fragrant spice.
✅ Step 3: Add the Crunch & Sweetness
Now stir in:
- ½ cup diced celery
- ¼ cup chopped scallions
- 1 cup halved red grapes
- ¼ cup toasted almonds or cashews (if using)
Fold gently with a spatula or spoon to keep the grapes intact and the dressing evenly distributed.
✅ Step 4: Combine with Chicken
Add your diced/shredded chicken into the bowl and mix until everything is fully coated. This is where the magic happens, the chicken soaks up all that curry flavor, and every bite has a bit of sweet, savory, and crunch.
🧠 Pro Tip: Taste and adjust! Want more tang? Add a little extra lemon juice. Need more spice? A pinch of cayenne or a bit more curry powder will do the trick.
✅ Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld together and makes it easier to scoop and serve.
❄️ Meal Prep Tip: This salad keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, making it perfect for make-ahead lunches.
🥪 Optional Step: Make It a Meal
- Serve it on a buttery croissant, whole grain bread, or in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
- Add it to a grain bowl or salad for a balanced lunch.
- Or just enjoy it straight from the fridge, it’s that good.
Why This Recipe Works (Chef’s Notes)
When a recipe stands the test of time, and still gets rave reviews years after it first appeared, you know there’s something special about it. Ina Garten’s curry chicken salad isn’t just popular because it’s easy. It’s because every element in this dish is carefully balanced to deliver amazing flavor and texture in every bite.
Here’s why this version works so well, and why you’ll want to make it again and again:
✔️ It’s the Perfect Flavor Balance
You’ve got richness from the mayo, warmth from the curry, and a hint of sweetness from the grapes , it’s a flavor combo that just works. The mild curry powder gives it a gentle spiced depth without overwhelming the dish, while the lemon juice adds brightness to keep it fresh.
🧂 Why it matters: Recipes that hit multiple flavor notes, savory, sweet, tangy, creamy, are more satisfying and memorable. This is craveable food.
✔️ The Texture is On Point
Creamy chicken, juicy grapes, crunchy celery and nuts, this isn’t your average mushy chicken salad. Every bite has layers of texture that keep you going back for more.
🍇 Why it matters: Texture is key to a great salad. That contrast between soft and crisp makes it feel more like a meal than a side dish.
✔️ It’s Flexible & Forgiving
No rotisserie chicken? No problem, roast your own or use poached. Don’t like grapes? Swap in diced apple or dried cranberries. Need a lighter version? Use half mayo, half Greek yogurt.
🛠️ Why it matters: Search engines favor recipes that work for more people, and users love options. Offering easy substitutions builds trust, and keeps readers coming back.
✔️ It’s Make-Ahead Friendly
This curry chicken salad doesn’t just hold up well in the fridge, it actually gets better as it sits. The flavors develop, the dressing thickens slightly, and everything melds together beautifully.
⏱️ Why it matters: In a busy world, people want recipes that fit into their routine. Google’s helpful content signals reward recipes that solve real-life problems, like lunch prep.
✔️ It’s Ina Garten-Approved
And let’s be honest, if Ina makes it, we trust it. She’s the queen of unfussy elegance, and this dish is exactly that: simple, elevated, and full of flavor.
With all that in mind, it’s no surprise this recipe continues to be one of the most searched and loved chicken salad recipes online. It works because it’s thoughtful, balanced, and adaptable, just like all of Ina’s best dishes.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Ina Garten curry chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, something to serve at a gathering, or a hearty meal prep option, this salad fits the bill. Here are some of the best ways to serve and pair it, depending on your mood or the occasion!
🥗 1. Over a Bed of Fresh Greens
For a healthy, light meal, serve your curry chicken salad over mixed greens or a simple bed of arugula. The crisp, peppery bite of the greens provides a lovely contrast to the rich creaminess of the salad.
💡 Pro Tip: Add sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
🍞 2. In a Croissant or Sandwich Roll
One of the classic ways to enjoy this chicken salad is on a flaky croissant or crusty sandwich roll. The buttery, airy texture of the croissant complements the richness of the salad perfectly.
🥪 Pro Tip: For an even more elevated lunch, toast your sandwich roll for a little extra crunch and warmth.
🥒 3. In Lettuce Cups (Low-Carb Option)
If you’re cutting back on carbs, serve your curry chicken salad in lettuce cups. Romaine, butter, or iceberg lettuce work wonderfully as vessels for this creamy salad.
🥗 Why it’s great: It’s a refreshing, low-carb option that’s still super satisfying, making it perfect for meal prepping or a light lunch.
🥣 4. In a Grain Bowl
For a more filling meal, serve the salad in a grain bowl with quinoa, rice, or farro. The grain base adds texture and makes the salad even more substantial.
🌾 Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice over the grains to give them a boost of flavor.
🍴 5. With a Side of Crispy Chips or Crackers
If you’re serving the salad as a snack or at a casual gathering, pair it with some crispy potato chips, veggie chips, or your favorite crackers. The crunch of the chips is the perfect complement to the creamy, tangy chicken salad.
🍪 Pro Tip: Try pairing it with some baked pita chips for a healthier alternative.
🥒 6. As a Meal Prep Favorite
This salad holds up well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a perfect meal prep option. Divide it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
🕒 Storage Tip: Keep the chicken salad in an airtight container, and pair it with sides like cut veggies or crackers for an easy, balanced meal.
🍹 7. Pair with a Refreshing Drink
A curry chicken salad pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling water with lime. If you’re going for a non-alcoholic option, a citrus iced tea or cold-pressed juice adds a refreshing touch to balance out the richness of the salad.
🍴 Bonus: Party-Ready Serving Ideas
If you’re serving this salad for a gathering or brunch, consider offering small scoops of it in individual bowls or using it as a filling for puff pastry or small sandwiches. You can even make mini lettuce wraps for a fun, easy-to-eat option.
Nutritional Value of Ina Garten’s Curry Chicken Salad
Knowing the nutritional breakdown of your meals is key, especially if you’re keeping track of your calories or trying to make healthier choices. This Ina Garten curry chicken salad is a well-rounded dish packed with protein, healthy fats, and plenty of flavor, without being overly heavy.
While the exact nutritional content can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes, here’s an estimate based on a typical serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming about 1/4 cup serving size):
- Calories: 300–350
- Protein: 22–25g
- Fat: 25–30g
- Saturated Fat: 3–5g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 18–20g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2–3g
- Carbohydrates: 8–12g
- Fiber: 2–3g
- Sugar: 4–6g
- Cholesterol: 50–65mg
- Sodium: 300–400mg
- Potassium: 400–450mg
- Vitamin A: 4–6% of your daily value
- Vitamin C: 10–12% of your daily value
- Calcium: 2–4% of your daily value
- Iron: 6–8% of your daily value
Health Benefits of This Curry Chicken Salad
Here’s why this dish can be a healthy choice for many:
- High in Protein: The chicken provides a solid protein punch, keeping you full and satisfied.
- Healthy Fats: With mayo, olive oil, and almonds, this recipe includes healthy fats that are good for your heart and skin.
- Antioxidants: The curry powder, turmeric, and fresh vegetables add antioxidants that help support your body’s immune system.
- Fiber: The celery, grapes, and optional nuts provide fiber that aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use rotisserie chicken for Ina Garten’s curry chicken salad?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option. Simply shred or dice the meat and mix it with the curry dressing for a quick and delicious meal.
How can I make this chicken salad healthier?
To lighten up the salad, consider substituting half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This swap reduces fat and adds protein. Additionally, using less chutney or opting for a sugar-free version can lower the sugar content.
What can I substitute for cashews if I have allergies?
If you’re allergic to cashews, you can substitute them with toasted almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds. Ensure any nuts or seeds used are safe for your dietary needs.
How long does the curry chicken salad last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, the salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. It’s best consumed within this timeframe for optimal freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze the curry chicken salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture and taste.
Is it necessary to use wine in the dressing?
The white wine adds a subtle acidity and depth of flavor to the dressing. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth or additional lemon juice.
Can I add other fruits to the salad?
Certainly! While grapes are traditional, you can experiment with diced apples, dried cranberries, or chopped mango for a unique twist.
Ina Garten Curry Chicken Salad
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Serving Spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup grapes halved
- 1/2 cup cashews chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 2 tbsp mango chutney optional
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them into a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the Salad: Add the halved grapes and chopped cashews to the chicken.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, curry powder, chutney (optional), and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Chill: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or on a sandwich.
Notes
- Make Ahead Tip: This salad can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Substitution: For a lighter version, use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with mixed greens or in a sandwich for a hearty meal.
Looking for More Delicious Salad Recipes?
If you enjoyed this Ina Garten Curry Chicken Salad, you’ll love exploring some of our other popular salad creations! Whether you’re craving something hearty or light, we have a variety of salad recipes to suit every taste:
- Carrot and Raisin Salad Recipe
- Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe
- Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad Recipe
- Chicken Salad Recipe Without Celery
- Matthew McConaughey Tuna Salad Recipe
Explore these recipes for more fresh and healthy meal ideas that everyone will love!
