Introduction

Discover a delightful recipe that combines the health benefits of kale with the savory flavors of chicken and curry. This Kale and Curry Chicken Salad is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Packed with vibrant ingredients, this salad is a wonderful addition to your meal rotation!

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Kale – 150g, washed and chopped
Cooked chicken – 200g, shredded
Curry powder – 1 tablespoon
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Cherry tomatoes – 150g, halved
Cucumber – 1, diced
Red onion – 1/4, thinly sliced

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield in french

Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 portions

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preparation of the Kale

Wash the kale thoroughly under running water. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.

Massage the Kale

In a large bowl, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the chopped kale. Massage the leaves with your hands for a few minutes until they become tender and dark green.

Cooking the Chicken

Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and curry powder. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through.

Shredding the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Then, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.

Preparing the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well combined.

Tossing the Salad

In the bowl with the massaged kale, add the shredded chicken, chopped almonds, and the dressing. Toss everything together until the kale and chicken are well coated with the dressing.

Serving the Salad

Serve the kale and chicken salad immediately, garnishing with additional almonds if desired.

Notes

Storage Suggestions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. If storing, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian alternative, you can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.

Additional Toppings

Feel free to customize the salad with additional toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or avocado for added flavor and texture.

Cook techniques

Chopping Kale

To prepare kale, remove the thick stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Rinse thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

Cooking Chicken

For the chicken, you can grill, bake, or pan-sear it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Season with your preferred spices.

Making Vinaigrette

To create a vinaigrette, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and your choice of seasonings until fully emulsified.

Toasting Nuts

Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the pan frequently until they are golden and fragrant.

Combining Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, cooked chicken, and any additional ingredients like nuts or fruits, tossing gently.

FAQ

Can I use other greens instead of kale?

Yes, you can substitute kale with other sturdy greens like spinach or Swiss chard.

What type of chicken works best for this salad?

Grilled or roasted chicken breast is ideal, but you can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad keeps well in the fridge, but it’s best to add the vinaigrette just before serving to avoid sogginess.

What nuts can I use in this salad?

Almonds, walnuts, or pecans are great options to add crunch and flavor to the salad.

Conclusion

The Kale and Chicken Curry Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect main dish or a side. Packed with nutrients from the kale and protein from the chicken, this salad is not only tasty but also healthy. It showcases how simple ingredients can create a satisfying meal, ideal for lunch or dinner.

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