Curried Chicken Salad with Apple Rounds

Ready in just 20 minutes, this heart-healthy chicken salad is a crunchy, gluten-free twist on the classic recipe. Instead of bread, crisp apple rounds create a fresh, low-fat option perfect for a cardiac diet chicken salad.

Apples are rich in fiber, which can help lower cholesterol, and flavonoids — plant compounds known to reduce inflammation. These nutrients have been linked to a lower risk for heart disease, stroke, and even certain cancers. Studies also suggest apples may help reduce blood pressure, making them a great choice for heart patients.

Turmeric, the spice that gives curry its golden color, offers anti-inflammatory benefits, supports cardiovascular health, and may even help with memory. Combined with lean chicken and Greek yogurt, this heart-healthy curry chicken recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

• ½ cup non-fat Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons tahini

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons curry powder

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 2 cups cooked, skinless, boneless chicken breast, diced

• ¼ cup cashews, chopped

• 1 scallion, diced

• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped

• 4 large, crisp red apples

• 8 small Boston or Bibb lettuce leaves

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, curry powder, and black pepper.

2. Stir in chicken, cashews, scallion, and celery.

3. Core the apples and slice into ½-inch thick rounds, keeping the skin on, for a total of 16 rounds.

4. Place a lettuce leaf on 8 of the apple rounds. Top with about ⅓ cup of chicken salad.

5. Cover with the remaining apple rounds to create sandwiches.

6. Serve and enjoy! Makes 4 servings.

Heart Health Benefits of This Recipe

Rich in Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients

Turmeric and apples both fight inflammation, which is linked to heart disease. This makes it a good choice for an anti-inflammatory diet.

Supports Healthy Cholesterol Levels

Apples provide soluble fiber, which can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.

Great for a Cardiac Diet

The recipe uses lean chicken breast and Greek yogurt instead of mayo, reducing saturated fat.

Blood Pressure-Friendly

The nutrients in apples may help reduce blood pressure, supporting overall heart health.

FAQs

Is curry chicken good for your heart?

Yes, especially when made with lean chicken, turmeric, and heart-healthy ingredients like in this recipe.

Can a heart patient eat curry?

Yes, as long as the curry is made with healthy fats and low sodium.

What is the best salad for heart patients?

Salads with lean protein, vegetables, fruit, and healthy fats — like this chicken salad for heart patients — are ideal.

Which curry is best for heart patients?

A mild curry made with turmeric, lean protein, and low-fat dairy is best.