Pleasing the Royals when cooking for them is a tough job and only a few people achieve this feat. In the list of the few selected dishes that have pleased the British Royals is the name of the Coronation Chicken. A classic dish from the British cookbooks that is not only historically important but is a cultural example to show what the British palette looks like.
This dish was originally crafted to please Queen Elizabeth II during her coronation. But now it is a staple food created in the kitchens across all of the United Kingdom.
There are many recipes for this classic dish out there, but nothing beats the one introduced by the Queen of British baking and comfort food, Mary Berry. So, keep reading this article as we break down Mary Berry’s recipe of Coronation Chicken and go through the process step-by-step, so that you serve a warm dish that steals hearts!
The Royal Origins of Coronation Chicken
It’s crucial to comprehend the dish’s history before we actually begin the recipe. The secret to creating a meal is its goal, and in the case of Coronation chicken, two brilliant minds came up with it in 1953. This chicken dish was prepared for Queen Elizabeth’s coronation supper by Constance Spry and Chef Rosemary Hume of the Cordin Bleeu Cookery School.
The dish’s concept was straightforward but brilliant. A chicken salad that combines the allure of juicy, succulent meat with a sauce that is creamy, curry-style. Stylish enough to be approved by the monarch, but roomy enough to accommodate 350 guests.
The outcome? Well, a tasty dish that symbolized Britain’s growing cultural regions by fusing exotic spices with the British palate.
Why Mary Berry’s Recipe Stands Out
Mary Berry’s cooking style has always been about balance, flavor, and simplicity. Her version of coronation chicken is no different:
- Lighter Sauce: This is a genius change she adds to her dish. Adding chutney is a heavy element in itself, and in Indian cooking as well. Yogurt is a great companion to chutneys. Hence, switching mayo to Greek yogurt in the recipe adds a fresh, clean taste, keeping it creamy but not heavy.
- Balanced Spices: A lot of spices could have been added at this stage, but Curry Powder is the best. It makes it have a warmth that brings out the flavor of the chutney.
- Fruity Touch: Apricot or mango chutney adds sweetness and tang, staying true to the original recipe.
- Texture: Tender chicken is mixed with toasted almonds, sultanas, or herbs for crunch and freshness.
The result is a dish that is sophisticated yet comforting—perfect for family meals, buffets, or even afternoon tea sandwiches.
Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Let’s get into the heart of the matter: how to actually make Mary Berry’s coronation chicken recipe at home.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless chicken breasts (about 700g)
- 200g mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt for lighter texture)
- 2 tbsp mango chutney (or apricot jam if preferred)
- 2 tsp mild curry powder
- Juice of half a lemon
- 3 tbsp sultanas or raisins
- 2 tbsp toasted flaked almonds
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the chicken
The ideal way of cooking the chicken for this recipe is to poach them. In a pan full of simmering salted water, allow the chicken breasts to poach for 15-20 minutes. Make sure they are fully cooked, drain them, and take them out. Once they are cool, you may shred it or cut them into cubes.
Prepare the dressing
Grab a mixing bowl, in which you combine Greek Yogurt or mayonnaise. We like the Greek Yogurt more. Now add curry powder, mango chutney, and some lemon juice in it. Mix this dressing until smooth.
Add Extras And Toss
Now you can add some sultanas, add your seasoning of salt and pepper to adjust. When all is done, you add your cool chicken pieces into the sauce and toss until all of it is well coated. When done, you can garnish with fresh herbs or toasted almonds.
Serving Suggestions for Coronation Chicken
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some fun ways to serve it:
- Classic Sandwiches: These are the ideal fillings you want in some soft white bread. The best picnic snack or for afternoon high tea.
- Buffet-Style Salad: If you’re cooking a large buffet where salad is a must, this is one of those recipes where people will come for second servings.
- Royal Wraps: As we said, this is a great filling and will make for a great lightweight high protein tortilla wrap.
Variations to Try
Now, we accept and there is no doubt in it, that Mary Berry’s version of the coronation chicken is a classic and unnecessarily delicious. However, making food is all about creativity. SO always feel free to add your own flair to recipes once you have mastered making them.
In case of this unique chicken salad, you can swap the mayonnaise used for some low-fat Greek Yogurt, to give it a lighter and fresher taste. It also gives it a tangy kick and makes it creamy, without it being too heavy.
If you want a kick or a hint of spice in the dish, then add some chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to give this dish a fiery element, which complements the chutney used in an umami flavor bomb.
Speaking of sweetness, you can play up the fruity element by replacing the traditional chutney with fresh diced mango or pineapple, which adds brightness and a tropical touch. For those who need to avoid nuts, simply skip the almonds and instead experiment with extra fresh herbs like coriander or parsley, or even crispy onions for added crunch.
Also! Don’t hesitate to try this recipe if you’re vegan or don’t consume meat, because who said coronation chicken could not be coronation veggies? Or Tofu? Or Cottahge Cheese? Basically, any plant-based option that you’d like, because the limits and combinations to try are endless. Personally, we think this could make for a great chickpea salad as well!
Tips for Perfect Execution
- Poach, Don’t Fry: Poaching keeps chicken juicy and tender, which pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Toast the Spices: For deeper flavor, gently toast curry powder in a dry pan before mixing.
- Balance is Key: Taste the sauce before adding chicken—sweetness, tang, and spice should be harmonious.
- Chill Before Serving: Coronation chicken tastes even better after resting in the fridge for at least an hour.
Storage and Make-Ahead Advice
- Fridge: Store coronation chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not ideal, as mayonnaise doesn’t freeze well.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Cook the chicken in advance and refrigerate it, then mix with the sauce just before serving.
Final Thoughts
A historically significant dish that is utterly delicious, and remains one to remember thanks to Mary Berry’s recipe. Whether you’re serving your own royal themed potluck, or having a casual family lunch, a summer picnic, or a grill dinner. This is a classic recipe whose flair never fails!
So rush to the nearest grocery, grab your chicken. Whip up that creamy curry dressing and get the true taste of British royal food on your table!
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