I developed this Apple Mango Chicken Salad to use up leftover roasted chicken and give white meat a tasty island twist. It combines juicy mango, crisp apple, crunchy celery, and red onion with a hint of curry powder for an irresistible Caribbean-flavored salad. It’s refreshing, quick to prepare, and perfect for sandwiches or as a light meal that everyone enjoys.
Ingredient Guide
- Cooked Chicken: Tender shredded chicken forms the hearty base of this salad.
- Mango: Tropical fruit with sweet, juicy flesh that adds a Caribbean touch.
- Apple: A crisp and mildly tart fruit that brings crunch and balance.
- Celery: Bright green vegetable with a clean, crunchy texture.
- Red Onion: Milder than white onions with a sharp flavor and vibrant color.
- Mayonnaise: Creamy condiment that binds everything together.
- Prepared Mustard: Adds tanginess and slight acidity.
- Lemon Juice: Helps preserve freshness and brightens the flavor.
- Curry Powder: A spice blend that introduces warm, savory notes.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the dish.
Shopping Made Easy
- Use leftover roasted chicken or grab rotisserie for convenience.
- Choose a ripe yet firm mango for easy cubing without mush.
- Red onion provides milder flavor; substitute with white or sweet onion if preferred.
- Any crisp, firm apple (e.g., Honeycrisp) works well in this mix.
Cooking Notes from the Kitchen
- Toss mango and apple with lemon juice immediately after dicing to preserve color.
- Chill for about 30 minutes to let flavors meld and for a refreshing experience.
- Great make-ahead dish; keeps well for up to 2 days with a quick stir before serving.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add chickpeas or diced avocado for protein and creaminess.
How can I use Apple Mango Chicken Salad in meals?
This salad works well in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or served over greens for a light lunch. It’s also great on crackers or as a party dip.
Can I meal prep this chicken salad in advance?
Yes, this salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container and stir before serving to freshen the texture.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in chicken salad?
Greek yogurt, sour cream, or mashed avocado are excellent alternatives that offer a lighter or dairy-free base while keeping the salad creamy.
What fruits go well in chicken salad?
Besides mango and apple, try grapes, pineapple, or dried cranberries. These add sweetness and contrast well with savory ingredients.
Can I make chicken salad without curry powder?
Yes, you can omit the curry powder or substitute it with paprika or a dash of cumin for a different flavor profile.
Apple Mango Chicken Salad
Description
A refreshing Caribbean-style chicken salad with tropical mango, crisp apple, and a hint of curry; perfect for sandwiches or a light, flavorful meal.
With most things I prepare I like to bring a bit of the “island” into it, so the addition of the ripe mango and pinch of curry powder, was only natural.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine mango and apple. Stir in lemon juice to prevent discoloration.
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Add shredded chicken, celery, and red onion.
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Stir in mayonnaise, mustard, curry powder, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.
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Chill for about 30 minutes to meld flavors.
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Serve on bread, lettuce wraps, or as a standalone salad.
Note
Try to get a mango that’s about 90% ripe, so it’s firm and will be easy to dice and handle in general, without falling apart. If you don’t have a red onion, any sweet or mild onion will work. The idea is not to have karate breath after eating this.
