Trader Joe’s Copycat Curried Chicken Salad – Sweet, Savory & Irresistibly Creamy!
If you’ve ever fallen in love with the Curried Chicken Salad from Trader Joe’s, you’re not alone.
It’s one of those prepared deli items that’s sweet, tangy, savory, and perfectly spiced—ideal for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or straight off a fork.
The good news? You can now make your homemade version that’s just as delicious (and even fresher!) in your kitchen.
This copycat recipe features tender chicken breast, crunchy celery, plump raisins, and toasted cashews, all tossed in a creamy, mildly spiced curry dressing.
It’s quick, simple, meal-prep friendly, and seriously addicting.
Why You’ll Love This Curried Chicken Salad
🍛 Bold, curry-forward flavor with sweet and savory balance
🐔 Tender chicken and crunchy celery for a satisfying texture
🥗 Perfect for meal prep, lettuce wraps, or sandwiches
⏱️ Ready in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients
🍯 Sweet raisins and creamy dressing make it crave-worthy
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon curry powder (mild or medium)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup raisins (or chopped dried cranberries)
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup toasted cashews, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Trader Joe’s Copycat Curried Chicken Salad
1️⃣ In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayo, curry powder, lemon juice, and honey. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
2️⃣ Add the cooked chicken, celery, raisins, green onions, and cashews to the bowl.
3️⃣ Toss everything together until evenly coated in the curry dressing.
4️⃣ Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld (optional but recommended!).
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
🥭 Add chopped mango or apple for fruity freshness
🌶️ Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick
🥒 Swap celery for chopped cucumber for extra crunch
🍋 Use lime juice for a zesty citrus variation
🥑 Serve over avocado halves or in lettuce cups for a low-carb meal
Serving Ideas
🥬 Lettuce wraps or collard green wraps for a low-carb lunch
🥪 Sandwiches on sourdough, croissants, or wraps
🍽️ On crackers or cucumber slices as a snack or appetizer
🥗 Over greens or quinoa for a protein-packed salad bowl
Storage Tips
📦 Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
❄️ Not freezer-friendly due to the creamy dressing
🍴 Stir before serving if it separates slightly over time
Final Thoughts
This Trader Joe’s Copycat Curried Chicken Salad gives you all the flavor and comfort of the original, with the bonus of being easy to customize and made with real, fresh ingredients.
It’s a dish that’s perfect for lunches, gatherings, or a quick bite anytime you need something satisfying, unique, and full of flavor. One bite and you’ll see why it’s a cult favorite! 🍛🥗💛
