Coronation Chicken: The Ultimate British Dish You Need to Try

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Introduction:

If you’re looking to try a classic British dish that is both flavorful and steeped in history, look no further than Coronation Chicken. Created in 1953 for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, this dish has stood the test of time, remaining a beloved staple at parties, celebrations, and gatherings. With its blend of tender chicken, creamy dressing, and a hint of curry, Coronation Chicken is a unique and exciting way to enjoy chicken salad. Whether you’re hosting a royal-themed party, looking for an elegant picnic dish, or just craving a classic British treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to create your own Coronation Chicken, offer pro tips, and explain why this dish continues to reign supreme in British kitchens.

What is Coronation Chicken?

Coronation Chicken is a creamy, spiced chicken salad dish that was first created in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. It combines cooked chicken, a mild curry-flavored sauce made with mayonnaise and yogurt, and is often paired with dried fruit and nuts like raisins and almonds. This dish became a symbol of royal British cuisine and continues to be a popular choice for light lunches, picnics, or even as a filling for sandwiches. The recipe has evolved over the years, but its essence remains the same: a deliciously creamy and subtly spiced chicken salad.

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Essential Ingredients for Coronation Chicken:

To make Coronation Chicken, you will need the following key ingredients:

1. Chicken Breast: This is the base of the dish, providing a tender and lean protein.
2. Mayonnaise: Adds richness and creaminess to the dressing.
3. Greek Yogurt: This helps balance out the richness of the mayonnaise, adding a tangy flavor.
4. Curry Powder: The signature flavor of Coronation Chicken, giving it its distinct spiciness.
5. Raisins or Sultanas: Adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
6. Almonds (optional): Sliced or chopped almonds provide a nice crunch.
7. Lemon Juice: A little tanginess that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
8. Salt and Pepper: To season the dish and enhance the flavors.

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Alternative Ingredients:

While the traditional Coronation Chicken recipe is loved by many, there are several ways to customize it depending on your preferences. Here are a few alternative ingredients you can try:

1. Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat over white meat, chicken thighs can provide a juicier, richer flavor.
2. Mango Chutney: For an added sweet-spicy flavor, you can mix in a spoonful of mango chutney.
3. Curry Paste: If you like a stronger curry flavor, try using curry paste instead of curry powder.
4. Greek Yogurt Alternative: If you want to reduce calories, you can use a lower-fat or dairy-free yogurt alternative.
5. Nuts and Dried Fruits: Other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or different nuts like cashews or walnuts, can be swapped in for variety.
6. Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, add some chopped cilantro or parsley.

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| Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4 | Yield: 4 servings |

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Key Features:

• Quick and Easy: This dish is simple to make and perfect for busy days when you need a flavorful meal without much fuss.
• Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
• Healthy: With lean chicken, yogurt, and fresh ingredients, Coronation Chicken can be a lighter alternative to traditional creamy salads.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Whether it’s for a royal-themed party or a casual picnic, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
• Rich in Protein: With chicken as the main ingredient, it’s a great source of lean protein.

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Nutrition Facts:

Amount Per Serving	Calories	Total Fat	Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium	Total Carbohydrates	Dietary Fiber	Sugars	Protein
Per Serving	320	15g	2g	65mg	280mg	15g	3g	10g	30g

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Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Coronation Chicken (600 words)

Making Coronation Chicken from scratch is a simple and rewarding process. With a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this delicious British classic at home. Follow these easy steps to make your own Coronation Chicken, and you’ll have a dish fit for royalty in no time!

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

The foundation of Coronation Chicken is tender, juicy chicken. For the best results, we recommend using skinless boneless chicken breasts, which cook quickly and offer a mild, lean protein. Here’s how to cook your chicken:

1. Boil the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts in a large saucepan or pot. Add enough cold water to cover the chicken. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until fully cooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
2. Alternative Cooking Methods: If you prefer, you can also bake the chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), season the chicken with salt and pepper, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, depending on thickness. Alternatively, you could grill or pan-sear the chicken to add a smoky flavor.
3. Shred or Cube the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. You can either shred it using two forks or cut it into bite-sized cubes. The choice between shredding or cubing depends on your texture preference—shredded chicken offers a more rustic feel, while cubed chicken is neat and easy to serve in sandwiches.

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Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

The heart of Coronation Chicken is its creamy curry sauce, which balances rich flavors with tangy sweetness. Here’s how to make it:

1. Mix Mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt: In a medium-sized bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise with ¼ cup of Greek yogurt. This combination provides the perfect balance of creaminess from the mayonnaise and tanginess from the yogurt. You can also opt for a lighter version of the sauce by using low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
2. Add Curry Powder: Sprinkle in 1½ to 2 tablespoons of mild curry powder. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less, or if you’re a fan of bold curry flavors, feel free to add more. Mix the curry powder into the mayonnaise and yogurt until fully combined. This will give the sauce its signature flavor.
3. Season the Sauce: Add the juice of half a lemon to brighten the sauce and balance the richness. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you want a hint of sweetness, you can add a tablespoon of mango chutney or a teaspoon of honey.

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Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once your sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together:

1. Add the Shredded Chicken: Take the shredded or cubed chicken and place it into the bowl with the curry sauce. Gently fold the chicken into the sauce, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Be careful not to break up the chicken too much—you want to maintain nice chunks that hold up well in the salad.
2. Check the Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of chicken broth or water. Add just a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

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Step 4: Add Raisins and Almonds

The raisins or sultanas in Coronation Chicken add a burst of sweetness and chewiness, while the almonds provide a satisfying crunch. Here’s how to incorporate them:

1. Raisins or Sultanas: Add ¼ cup of raisins or sultanas to the chicken mixture. These dried fruits give the dish a touch of natural sweetness, which complements the savory, spiced chicken. You can soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes to soften them, but they can also be added straight from the packet.
2. Almonds (Optional): If you like a bit of crunch, stir in ¼ cup of chopped or slivered almonds. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful texture that contrasts with the creaminess of the sauce. You can also substitute almonds with other nuts, such as cashews or walnuts, for a different flavor.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, it’s recommended to chill the Coronation Chicken in the refrigerator before serving:

1. Chill the Salad: Transfer the Coronation Chicken to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the dish even tastier. If you have time, let it chill for a few hours or even overnight.
2. Serving Suggestions: Serve your Coronation Chicken in a variety of ways. You can serve it on a bed of fresh salad greens for a light meal, spoon it into a sandwich, or serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. It also works great as a filling for wraps, pita pockets, or on top of crackers.
3. Garnish (Optional): For added color and flavor, garnish your Coronation Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley. This adds a fresh, herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

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Step 6: Enjoy!

After chilling, your Coronation Chicken is ready to be served! The combination of tender chicken, spiced curry sauce, and sweet raisins makes this dish irresistible. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion, a picnic, or a casual family meal, Coronation Chicken is sure to be a hit.

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Final Notes:

Coronation Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish at parties or gatherings. It’s easy to make, and you can even make it ahead of time, saving you time on the day of your event. Play around with different ingredients and spices to make it your own, and enjoy the royal flavors of this British classic!

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Pro Tips for a Perfect Coronation Chicken

To ensure your Coronation Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips that will elevate the flavor and presentation of this classic British dish:

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Chicken:

For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. Avoid using pre-cooked or frozen chicken, as it can dry out and lack the tender juiciness that makes Coronation Chicken so delightful. If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs are also a great choice, offering a richer, more flavorful alternative to breasts.

2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken:

Overcooking chicken can make it dry and tough, which will affect the final texture of your dish. Keep an eye on the cooking time, whether you’re boiling, baking, or pan-searing your chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly tender and moist chicken.

3. Allow the Chicken to Cool Before Shredding:

Once your chicken is cooked, let it cool for a few minutes before shredding or chopping it. This helps retain the moisture and ensures the chicken remains juicy. Shredding the chicken allows the sauce to coat the meat more effectively, giving you the best texture and flavor.

4. Adjust the Curry Powder to Your Taste:

Curry powder is the heart of Coronation Chicken, but everyone’s tolerance for spice differs. Start with 1½ tablespoons of curry powder, then taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of curry powder or opt for a mild variety. For a bolder flavor, increase the curry powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

5. Let It Chill Before Serving:

For the best flavor, always chill your Coronation Chicken for at least 30 minutes before serving. The cooling period allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive and flavorful dish. In fact, if you have the time, let it chill for a few hours or even overnight to deepen the taste.

6. Customize with Add-ins:

While raisins and almonds are the traditional additions to Coronation Chicken, don’t be afraid to get creative. Add in other dried fruits like apricots or cranberries, or try different nuts such as cashews or walnuts. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also enhance the freshness of the dish, giving it an aromatic lift

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Coronation Chicken is a dish that effortlessly balances rich flavors with a light and creamy texture. Its blend of savory chicken, tangy yogurt, and subtle curry spice creates a taste that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a summer picnic, serving it at a formal event, or simply craving a flavorful lunch, this dish is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, versatile, and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways—from a salad to a sandwich. Coronation Chicken is a timeless classic that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

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What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets Coronation Chicken apart from other chicken salads is its combination of spiced curry flavors with the smooth creaminess of mayonnaise and yogurt. It’s not just your average chicken salad—it’s a dish with a rich history, a nod to the British monarchy, and a recipe that offers a royal touch to any meal. Whether served as a quick lunch or as part of a grand celebration, Coronation Chicken offers a unique twist on traditional chicken salads, making it both flavorful and iconic.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Coronation Chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare Coronation Chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge. This will actually allow the flavors to meld together and enhance the taste.

2. Can I make Coronation Chicken without curry powder? Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the curry powder or substitute it with mild curry paste or turmeric.

3. Is Coronation Chicken suitable for a low-fat diet? You can make Coronation Chicken lower in fat by using low-fat yogurt and reducing the amount of mayonnaise. You can also skip the almonds or use a lower-fat version.

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You’ll Also Love:

If you enjoyed making Coronation Chicken, you’ll also love these other delicious recipes:

1. Chicken Tikka Masala: A creamy and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that’s easy to make at home.
2. Classic Caesar Salad: A light yet indulgent salad made with fresh greens, parmesan, and a creamy dressing.
3. Chicken Salad with Avocado: A fresh and healthy twist on the traditional chicken salad.

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Conclusion:

Coronation Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a piece of history. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and simple ingredients, it’s no wonder this recipe remains a favorite for so many. Whether you’re preparing it for a royal-themed party or simply looking for a delicious and easy meal, this dish is sure to please. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with #BeesRecipes on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your delicious take on this British classic!