The Coronation Chicken is a dish fit for a king, offering a perfect balance of spicy curry, sweet mango chutney, and crunchy almonds. The chicken is tender and juicy, coated in a creamy dressing with a burst of flavor from the golden raisins. This salad is not only vibrant but also packs a punch in terms of taste, making it ideal for a special lunch or dinner.
Whether served on a bed of greens or as a sandwich filling, this dish has the versatility to shine in many settings. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy chicken with a unique and indulgent twist. Perfect for picnics, meal prep, or impressing guests at a dinner party, Coronation Chicken adds a touch of royalty to any table.
Full Recipe:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon curry powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/2 cup plain yogurt
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2 tablespoons mango chutney
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2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
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1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
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1/4 cup golden raisins
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1/4 cup chopped green onions
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Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Season chicken breasts with curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper on both sides.
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Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
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Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
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Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yogurt, and mango chutney. Stir until smooth.
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Add the shredded chicken, cilantro, toasted almonds, raisins, and green onions to the bowl. Stir to combine.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve chilled.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Coronation Chicken
Coronation Chicken is a classic British dish with an intriguing history, making it an ideal choice for any celebratory occasion or casual meal. With a rich blend of flavors, this dish combines tender chicken with a creamy, curried sauce, complemented by sweet and tangy mango chutney, raisins, and almonds. It’s a dish that reflects a unique mixture of spices, textures, and flavors, perfect for serving at picnics, as part of a buffet, or even as a main course for a light, yet satisfying meal.
The origins of Coronation Chicken date back to 1953 when it was created to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The dish was first presented as a cold chicken salad with a curried dressing, which was served at the banquet following the queen’s coronation. The dish was a huge hit and quickly became a popular British classic. Over time, Coronation Chicken has evolved with various adaptations, but the core elements remain the same.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
At its heart, Coronation Chicken is all about balancing the sweetness of the mango chutney with the subtle heat of curry powder. The creamy dressing made from mayonnaise and yogurt brings everything together into a velvety sauce that coats the chicken, making each bite rich and satisfying. The addition of almonds and raisins provides texture and sweetness, creating a dish that’s not only flavorful but also full of contrast.
What makes Coronation Chicken particularly appealing is the versatility it offers. You can adjust the level of spiciness by tweaking the amount of curry powder or chili. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the curry powder and opt for a more delicate touch with the chutney. Alternatively, for those who love bold flavors, you can add extra spices like cumin or paprika to give it more depth.
Health Benefits of Coronation Chicken
Although Coronation Chicken may seem indulgent, it can be surprisingly healthy when made with the right ingredients. The dish is a great source of protein from the chicken, and the addition of yogurt provides probiotics that are beneficial for digestion. The almonds in the recipe add healthy fats and protein, while the raisins contribute antioxidants and natural sugars.
If you’re looking to make the dish even lighter, consider using low-fat yogurt and mayonnaise. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots, to increase the fiber content and make the dish even more filling. This makes Coronation Chicken a flexible option for various dietary needs, whether you’re looking for something light, filling, or nutrient-rich.
Serving Suggestions for Coronation Chicken
Coronation Chicken can be served in various ways, making it an excellent dish for a wide range of occasions. Traditionally, it is served chilled as a salad, often accompanied by a side of crisp lettuce or other greens. You can also serve it on a bed of couscous or quinoa for a heartier option.
For a more casual meal, Coronation Chicken works beautifully in a sandwich or wrap. A whole-grain sandwich or a soft flatbread can help balance the richness of the curried chicken. For those with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to make Coronation Chicken gluten-free by serving it in lettuce wraps instead of bread.
Another fun way to serve this dish is as a topping for a baked potato. The creamy chicken salad pairs wonderfully with the fluffy potato, offering a complete meal that is both filling and satisfying.
Variations on the Classic Coronation Chicken Recipe
Over time, many chefs and home cooks have created their own twists on the classic Coronation Chicken recipe. Some may add more exotic ingredients, like chopped fresh herbs, such as coriander or mint, to bring in fresh, aromatic flavors. Others may swap out the mayonnaise for a more tangy dressing, such as Greek yogurt with a splash of lemon juice, making it a healthier alternative.
For a more tropical flair, some versions include pineapple or coconut, enhancing the fruity sweetness of the dish and making it even more vibrant. The use of different nuts, such as cashews or pecans, can also change the texture and flavor profile, offering a delightful variation on the original recipe.
Why Coronation Chicken is a Timeless Dish
Despite being over 70 years old, Coronation Chicken remains a beloved classic in British cuisine. The dish combines flavors that appeal to a wide range of tastes, from savory curry to sweet chutney. It’s simple enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve at a celebratory event. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a staple in homes and restaurants alike, ensuring its place in the culinary world for years to come.
Whether you’re hosting a royal tea party or simply looking for a light yet flavorful meal, Coronation Chicken is a dish that never goes out of style. Its combination of tender chicken, creamy dressing, and the boldness of curry powder creates a timeless appeal that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves a meal with both depth and simplicity.
Conclusion: A Dish Fit for Any Occasion
Coronation Chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a dish with a rich history and a timeless appeal. Its flavorful combination of ingredients brings together creamy, sweet, and savory elements, making it a versatile choice for various occasions. Whether you’re serving it at a formal gathering, a picnic, or a casual family dinner, this dish will always impress with its balanced flavors and ease of preparation.
If you’ve never tried Coronation Chicken, it’s time to bring this iconic dish to your table. With its roots in royal British history, it’s sure to add a touch of elegance to your dining experience, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner with loved ones. So why not give it a try and elevate your next meal with this royal treat?
This dish is not only delicious but also offers a beautiful array of textures, from the crunchy almonds to the sweet raisins. As you prepare it, feel free to get creative by adding your own twists, making Coronation Chicken an adaptable and customizable recipe that suits every taste and dietary need. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or experiment with your own variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.