Apricot Chicken Rice Salad Recipe

This vibrant and refreshing Apricot Chicken Rice Salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner! Sweet apricots, crunchy almonds, and tender chicken combine with fluffy rice in a zesty dressing. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy – get ready for a flavor explosion in under an hour!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 50 mins
Calories 396.1 kcal
Protein 33g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Apricot Chicken Rice Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Apricot Chicken Rice Salad

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Curry Powder
  • Fresh Ginger
  • Instant Brown Rice
  • Dried Apricot
  • Golden Raisin
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • Green Bell Pepper
  • Red Bell Pepper
  • Cooked Chicken Breasts
  • Toasted Sliced Almonds
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • White Wine Vinegar
  • Dry Sherry
  • Mayonnaise
  • Dijon Mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cayenne

How to Make Apricot Chicken Rice Salad

  1. In a 4-quart pot, bring 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1-inch piece of peeled and thinly sliced ginger to a boil.
  2. Stir in 2 cups of long-grain rice, cover tightly, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed.
  3. While the rice cooks, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl.
  4. Remove the cooked rice from heat and discard the ginger.
  5. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in 1 cup dried apricots (halved), 1/2 cup raisins, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color), 2 cups cooked chicken (diced), and 1/2 cup slivered almonds.
  6. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and stir to combine.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving. Garnish with extra chives before serving (optional).

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

8 g

Sugar

63g

Fat

7g

Carbs

20g