When it comes to iconic Southern cuisine, Dooky Chase’s Restaurant in New Orleans holds a special place in our hearts. Known for its rich history and soulful dishes, this legendary spot has inspired countless recipes, including their flavorful Curry Chicken Salad. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, warm spices, and creamy dressing, offering a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Dooky Chase Curry Chicken Salad Recipe
This iconic curry chicken salad from Dooky Chase’s Restaurant combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a luscious dressing for an unbeatable dish. Let’s recreate this classic Southern recipe with precise, step-by-step instructions to bring the flavors of New Orleans to our kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
For the Curry Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Salad Mix:
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 4 cups mixed salad greens or lettuce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken:
- In a large pot, combine water, salt, black pepper, and the bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Add the chicken breasts. Reduce the heat to medium-low, ensuring a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Remove the chicken, let it cool, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Curry Dressing:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, curry powder, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
3. Assemble the Salad Mix:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, raisins, and nuts (if using).
- Pour the curry dressing over the mixture. Gently toss using a spatula to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Serve:
- Arrange the mixed greens or lettuce on individual plates or a serving platter.
- Spoon the curry chicken mixture onto the greens.
- Garnish with additional nuts, raisins, or a sprinkle of curry powder for presentation.
Serving Tips:
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with buttery croissants, crackers, or a side of fruit for a well-rounded meal.
- Make Ahead: The flavors develop beautifully if refrigerated for a few hours before serving.
- Customizable: Swap raisins for apricots or use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy twist.
Nutritional Table
Provided values are estimates for one serving (serves four):
| Component | Nutritional Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Ingredients
Here is everything we need to create the iconic Dooky Chase Curry Chicken Salad. Follow the categorized lists below for each component of this flavorful dish.
For The Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For The Salad
- 4 cups mixed salad greens, washed and dried
- 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup almonds, slivered or chopped
- 1/4 cup golden raisins
For The Curry Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment Needed
To bring the Dooky Chase Curry Chicken Salad to life in our kitchen, having the right tools is essential. Each piece of equipment will streamline the preparation and ensure we achieve the perfect texture and balance of flavors. Here’s what we need:
Cooking Equipment
- Large pot or saucepan – Perfect for poaching the chicken breasts until tender and juicy.
- Meat thermometer – Ensures the chicken reaches the ideal internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Tongs or slotted spoon – Helps handle and remove the chicken from the pot with ease.
Prep Tools
- Cutting board – Use a sturdy board for chopping the vegetables, fruits, and chicken.
- Sharp chef’s knife – Essential for clean, precise cuts of celery, red onion, and chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurement of mayonnaise, curry powder, honey, and other dressing ingredients.
- Citrus juicer – Handy for extracting fresh lemon juice without seeds.
Mixing and Assembly
- Large mixing bowl – Ideal for tossing and combining the salad ingredients without spilling.
- Small mixing bowl – Use this to whisk together the curry dressing until smooth and creamy.
- Whisk – Ensures an evenly blended dressing without lumps.
- Salad tongs – Makes mixing the salad components easy and allows for gentle handling of delicate greens.
Serving and Presentation
- Serving platter or bowl – Showcase the beautifully assembled Curry Chicken Salad for a stunning presentation.
- Optional: Individual plates or bowls – Convenient for portioned servings.
Quick Glance Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot or pan | Poaching chicken |
| Meat thermometer | Ensuring chicken is cooked properly |
| Mixing bowls | Preparing dressing and tossing salad |
| Chef’s knife | Chopping vegetables, fruits, and chicken |
| Meadowings tools | Measuring ingredients for accuracy |
| Salad tongs | Mixing and serving the salad |
By gathering these tools, we’ll ensure an efficient cooking process and effortless assembly of a perfectly crafted Dooky Chase Curry Chicken Salad.
Instructions
Let’s recreate the iconic Dooky Chase Curry Chicken Salad step by step. Follow these easy instructions to ensure your salad turns out flavorful, perfectly textured, and restaurant-worthy.
Prep The Ingredients
- Prepare the chicken: Trim any excess fat from the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Wash and chop produce: Rinse the mixed greens thoroughly and set them aside to dry. Slice the celery, red onion, and halve the grapes.
- Toast the almonds: Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool.
- Measure the dressing ingredients: Gather mayonnaise, curry powder, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey in a small prep area for easy mixing.
Cook The Chicken
- Fill a large pot with water and season it with a mix of salt, pepper, and a bay leaf for aromatic flavor.
- Place the chicken breasts in the pot and bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. Do not boil.
- Poach the chicken gently for 15–20 minutes or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Once cool, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces using a sharp chef’s knife or your hands.
Make The Curry Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl, add 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of honey for subtle sweetness. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning based on preference.
Assemble The Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grapes, celery, red onion, toasted almonds, and golden raisins. Toss gently to mix.
- Pour the prepared curry dressing over the salad mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Use salad tongs to fold the ingredients together carefully.
- Arrange the mixed greens on a serving platter, then spoon the chicken salad on top. Garnish with additional toasted almonds or fresh herbs for a sophisticated touch.
| Cooking Time | Prep Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 25 minutes | 45 minutes |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing parts of the Dooky Chase Curry Chicken Salad in advance is a fantastic way to streamline your cooking process and ensure a stress-free experience, especially when hosting or meal prepping. Follow these steps to make components ahead of time without compromising the salad’s fresh and vibrant flavors:
1. Cook and Store the Chicken
Prepare the chicken up to 2 days in advance by poaching it as instructed. Once fully cooked, allow it to cool completely, then shred or dice it according to the recipe. Place the chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
Tip: Add a drizzle of olive oil or a touch of the curry dressing to the chicken before refrigerating to keep it moist and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Curry Dressing
The curry dressing can be made ahead and stored for up to 3 days. Whisk the mayonnaise, curry powder, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey until smooth, then transfer it to a sealed container. Keep it chilled until ready to use. Stir the dressing before tossing it with the salad to ensure even consistency.
3. Toast the Almonds
Toast the sliced almonds in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents the almonds from losing their crunch by refrigerating.
4. Wash and Prep Produce
- Wash and dry the mixed greens, grapes, and celery thoroughly. Store the greens in a bag or bowl lined with paper towels to maintain freshness and crispness.
- Dice the red onions and celery. Store these prepped vegetables in separate airtight containers in the fridge.
- If cutting grapes ahead, store them in an airtight container to retain their natural sweetness and avoid drying out.
5. Assembly on the Day of Serving
Keep all prepped components chilled and separate. When ready to serve, combine the chicken, produce, and dressing in a large bowl, then toss gently. Top with toasted almonds and golden raisins just before plating to preserve their texture and enhance the dish’s visual appeal.
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | Up to 2 Days | Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. |
| Curry Dressing | Up to 3 Days | Keep in the fridge in a sealed container. |
| Toasted Almonds | Up to 5 Days | Store in an airtight container at room temperature. |
| Washed Mixed Greens | 1 Day | Keep in a bowl or bag with paper towels in the fridge. |
| Prepped Vegetables | 1 Day | Store diced vegetables in containers in the fridge. |
By following these make-ahead tips, we can enjoy the Dooky Chase Curry Chicken Salad with minimal last-minute effort. Each component remains fresh, ensuring the finished dish retains its bold flavors and textures.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving the Dooky Chase Curry Chicken Salad, presentation is just as important as the flavors. This dish is highly versatile, offering options that range from elegant plated meals to casual gatherings. Here are our favorite ways to serve this creamy, flavorful salad:
1. Classic Plated Salad
- Arrange a generous amount of mixed greens on a large serving plate or individual plates.
- Top with the dressed curry chicken mixture, ensuring the flavorful sauce coats the chicken evenly.
- Garnish with toasted almonds, golden raisins, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
- Serve with a side of buttery croissants or crusty artisan bread for a well-rounded meal.
2. Sandwich or Wrap
- Spread the curry chicken salad onto a slice of buttery brioche bread or fill it into a flour tortilla.
- Add extra greens, such as arugula or baby spinach, to balance the creaminess with freshness.
- For wraps, roll tightly and slice in half diagonally for a neat and portable serving option—perfect for lunches or picnics.
3. Party Platter
- Use a large platter and create sections for each element: the curry chicken salad in the center and an array of dipping crackers, vegetable sticks, and mini toasts around it.
- This is ideal for entertaining and encourages guests to build their own bites.
4. Stuffed Avocado or Tomato
- For an elegant twist, hollow out half an avocado or a large beefsteak tomato and fill it with the curry chicken salad.
- The creamy avocado and juicy tomato complement the salad’s texture beautifully and make a stunning presentation.
5. Lettuce Cups
- Scoop the salad into crisp butter lettuce leaves or romaine hearts for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.
- These handheld bites are light yet packed with dynamic curry flavors, making them perfect for appetizers or as a crowd-pleaser.
6. Charcuterie Concept
- Pair the salad with a spread of artisan cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits like grapes and figs, and nuts for a unique addition to a charcuterie board.
- This approach complements the sweet and savory notes of the salad beautifully.
| Serving Style | Perfect For | Recommended Add-ons |
|---|---|---|
| Plated Salad | Elegant meals | Croissants or bread |
| Sandwich/Wrap | On-the-go lunches | Fresh greens |
| Party Platter | Casual gatherings | Crackers, veggies |
| Stuffed Avocado/Tomato | Elegant dinner parties | Avocado, tomatoes |
| Lettuce Cups | Healthy appetizers | Romaine, butter lettuce |
| Charcuterie Concept | Specialty occasions | Cheeses, fruits, nuts |
Experiment with one—or all—of these serving options and enjoy how each presentation feels fresh and thoughtfully crafted! The Dooky Chase Curry Chicken Salad is truly a dish that shines in any setting.
Conclusion
Dooky Chase’s Curry Chicken Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and versatility. By bringing this iconic dish into our kitchens, we can enjoy a taste of New Orleans while creating a meal that’s as comforting as it is elegant.
Whether served at a casual lunch or a special gathering, this salad offers endless possibilities for presentation and enjoyment. With its bold flavors, thoughtful preparation, and timeless appeal, it’s a dish that truly stands out. Let’s savor every bite and share this culinary gem with those we cherish most.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dooky Chase’s Restaurant known for?
Dooky Chase’s Restaurant in New Orleans is renowned for its rich history, Southern cuisine, and iconic dishes, including the famous Curry Chicken Salad. It’s a cultural and culinary landmark that celebrates soulful flavors and hospitality.
What makes the Curry Chicken Salad special?
The Curry Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, creamy dressing, and warm spices, alongside fresh ingredients like grapes, celery, and almonds. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it comforting yet elegant.
What are the key ingredients for the Curry Chicken Salad?
The salad features chicken breasts, mixed greens, grapes, celery, red onion, almonds, and golden raisins. The curry dressing includes mayonnaise, curry powder, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, and seasonings.
How long does it take to prepare the Curry Chicken Salad?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, including cooking the chicken, making the curry dressing, and assembling the salad.
Can I make components of the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Cook and store the chicken up to 2 days in advance, prepare the dressing 3 days ahead, and toast almonds up to 5 days before assembling.
What tools do I need to make the salad?
Essential tools include a large pot for poaching chicken, cutting board, knife, whisk, mixing bowls, measuring cups, and a serving platter or plates.
Are there variations for serving the Curry Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! Enjoy it as a plated salad, in sandwiches or wraps, on party platters, in lettuce cups, or stuffed in avocados or tomatoes. It’s versatile for any occasion.
Is the Curry Chicken Salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Components can be prepped ahead and assembled just before serving, making it convenient yet flavorful.
Are there nutritional benefits to this dish?
Yes, the Curry Chicken Salad is packed with protein from the chicken and almonds, along with fiber and vitamins from the fresh produce.
Can I customize the Curry Chicken Salad?
Certainly! Feel free to adjust ingredients based on preferences—swap grapes for dried cranberries, use pecans instead of almonds, or adjust the dressing’s sweetness or spice level.