Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken is a beloved and easy-to-make British dish that beautifully melds the rich flavors of mayonnaise, curry powder, mango chutney, cinnamon, sultanas, and shredded cooked chicken. This simple yet delightful recipe, which takes only 5 minutes to prepare, is perfect for serving cold alongside jacket potatoes, salads, or as a delicious sandwich filling.
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What Is Coronation Chicken?
Coronation Chicken is a traditional British dish consisting of cold-cooked chicken enveloped in a creamy yellow sauce. This iconic sauce typically features mayonnaise, curry powder, and often includes other flavorful ingredients such as sultanas, mango chutney, and raisins. This delectable dish was originally crafted in 1953 to honor the coronation banquet of Queen Elizabeth II, and it has since become a cherished staple in British cuisine.
Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 tbsp mango chutney
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup sultanas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of curry powder, ensuring it’s evenly distributed over the mayonnaise. Add 1 tablespoon of mango chutney for sweetness and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon for a subtle, warm undertone. Finally, add 1/4 cup of sultanas to the mix.
- Combine the Ingredients: Using a spoon or a whisk, mix all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined. The sauce should have a uniform consistency with the curry powder and cinnamon fully incorporated, and the sultanas evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Add the Chicken: Take 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken and add it to the bowl with the sauce. It’s important that the chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces for the best texture and flavor distribution.
- Mix Thoroughly: Using a large spoon, gently fold the chicken into the sauce. Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated with the creamy, spiced sauce. Continue to mix until the chicken and sauce are fully integrated.
- Season to Taste: Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper to your preference. Start with a small amount, mix well, and adjust as necessary to ensure the seasoning is balanced.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve the Coronation Chicken cold. It pairs wonderfully with jacket potatoes, fresh salads, or as a flavorful sandwich filling.
Tips and Variations
Use Leftover Chicken
This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover chicken, making it both economical and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Coronation Chicken can be enjoyed with jacket potatoes, tossed in a fresh salad, or used as a sandwich filling for a quick and tasty meal.
Adjust Seasonings
Feel free to adjust the amount of curry powder to match your personal taste preference. For a milder flavor, use less curry powder; for a spicier kick, add more.
Add Extra Ingredients
Enhance the texture and flavor of your Coronation Chicken by adding chopped celery, scallions, or even some toasted almonds.
History of Coronation Chicken
The origins of mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken trace back to the grand coronation banquet of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Created by Constance Spry and Rosemary Hume, this dish was initially considered a luxury due to the rarity and expense of chicken in post-World War II Britain. Over the decades, Coronation Chicken gained widespread popularity, especially during the 1970s and 1980s. Celebrity chefs like Heston Blumenthal have contributed to its enduring appeal by experimenting with new spices and ingredients, adding their unique twist to the classic recipe.
FAQs About Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken
What Is the Origin of Coronation Chicken?
Coronation Chicken was created in 1953 by Constance Spry and Rosemary Hume for the coronation banquet of Queen Elizabeth II. It was designed to be a luxurious dish during a time when chicken was a rare and expensive ingredient.
Why Is It Called Coronation Chicken?
The dish was named “Coronation Chicken” to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. It was served at the official coronation luncheon and has since become a popular British dish.
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in Coronation Chicken?
While traditional Coronation Chicken uses cooked chicken, you can experiment with other meats like turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The key is the flavorful sauce that brings the dish together.
How Should I Store Coronation Chicken?
Coronation Chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days when properly stored.
Can I Freeze Coronation Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Coronation Chicken. Place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Is Coronation Chicken Gluten-Free?
The basic ingredients in Coronation Chicken are gluten-free, but it’s important to check the labels on your curry powder and mango chutney to ensure they do not contain any gluten.
How Can I Make Coronation Chicken Healthier?
To make Coronation Chicken healthier, you can use a reduced-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat mayonnaise. You can also add more vegetables like chopped celery and scallions to increase the fiber content.
Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken Recipe: A Delightfully Flavorful British Classic
Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken is a quintessential British dish that is both simple to prepare and delightfully flavorful. With its creamy, spiced sauce and succulent chicken, mary berry’s coronation chicken offers a perfect way to transform leftover chicken into a satisfying and versatile meal. Whether served with jacket potatoes, as part of a fresh salad, or as a hearty sandwich filling, this Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken recipe is sure to impress and delight.
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