Mary Berry Recipes

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My dears, there are some dishes that simply stand the test of time, and Coronation Chicken is undoubtedly one of them. Created for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation luncheon in 1953, it's a truly iconic British dish that has graced countless tables since. It's a wonderful example of how a few carefully chosen ingredients, when combined with a little love and attention, can create something truly spectacular. I've always adored its creamy texture and the gentle warmth of the curry – it’s a delightful flavour profile that truly sings.

This particular recipe, my version of the classic, aims for that perfect balance of sweetness and spice, ensuring every mouthful is a joy. I’ve found that using good quality chicken and allowing the flavours to meld together makes all the difference. It’s not overly complicated, which is precisely why it’s become such a beloved staple in so many homes. You'll find it's wonderfully adaptable, equally at home nestled in a freshly baked baguette or serving as the star of a vibrant salad.

I remember making this for countless family gatherings and garden parties over the years. It has a magical way of pleasing everyone, from the youngest grandchild to the most discerning dinner guest. It’s a dish that evokes a sense of occasion, yet remains wonderfully approachable. So, let’s gather our ingredients and create a batch of this sheer perfection, shall we?

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

It's a wonderfully versatile dish, perfect for everything from elegant lunches to casual picnics.
The blend of sweet, savoury, and gently spiced flavours is utterly delightful and universally appealing.
It can be prepared ahead of time, making entertaining a breeze and allowing the flavours to truly deepen.

Ingredients

500g cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
3 tbsp good quality mayonnaise
3 tbsp crème fraîche or plain Greek yogurt
1-2 tsp mild curry powder (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp mango chutney, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp sultanas or dried apricots, finely chopped
2 tbsp flaked almonds, lightly toasted (optional, for garnish)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: A few sprigs of fresh coriander or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl • Sharp knife • Chopping board • Measuring spoons • Spatula or mixing spoon • Airtight container for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: If you're cooking chicken from scratch, gently poach or bake two large chicken breasts until cooked through, then allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. If using leftover cooked chicken, ensure it's cold.
Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, crème fraîche (or yogurt), curry powder, mango chutney, and fresh lemon juice. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded or diced chicken, sultanas (or apricots), and a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to the sauce. Gently fold all the ingredients together until the chicken is thoroughly coated.
Allow Flavours to Mingle: For the best flavour, cover the bowl and refrigerate the Coronation Chicken for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, several hours. This allows the wonderful spices and ingredients to truly meld and develop.
Serve and Garnish: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Spoon the Coronation Chicken into a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted flaked almonds and fresh coriander or parsley, if using.

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Perfect Substitutions

Crème fraîche: You can easily swap this for plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce, or even double the mayonnaise for a richer version.
Sultanas: Finely diced dried apricots or even a touch of finely chopped fresh apple can add a lovely sweetness and texture.
Curry Powder: If you prefer a little more heat, a medium curry powder can be used, but always start with less and add more to taste.
Chicken: Leftover roast chicken or even turkey works beautifully in this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

This delightful Coronation Chicken is incredibly versatile! It's simply divine piled high on fresh, crusty bread or warm, fluffy jacket potatoes. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a vibrant green salad with a simple vinaigrette. It also makes a wonderful filling for delicate canapés or as part of a grand buffet spread. A side of fluffy basmati rice can turn it into a more substantial main course. If you enjoyed this, you might also love our Hearty Garden Vegetable Soup and Hearty Chilli Con Carne.

How to Store \u0026 Reheat

Coronation Chicken is best enjoyed chilled. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. As it's a mayonnaise-based dish, it's not suitable for reheating. Always ensure it's kept cold, especially if serving outdoors.

Mary's Secrets to Success

My secret to a truly outstanding Coronation Chicken lies in two things: ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked and cooled, and allowing the finished dish to rest in the refrigerator. That resting time isn't just for convenience; it's when the curry powder, the sweetness of the chutney, and the tang of the lemon juice truly come alive, creating a harmonious symphony of flavours. And always taste and adjust your seasoning before serving – a little extra lemon juice or a pinch more salt can make all the difference to achieve sheer perfection!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken is best to use?

Poached or roasted chicken breast works beautifully, as it's lean and takes on the flavours wonderfully. Leftover roast chicken is also a brilliant choice, providing a lovely depth of flavour. Just ensure it's completely cooled before shredding or dicing.

How can I adjust the spice level?

For a milder flavour, start with 1 teaspoon of mild curry powder and taste before adding more. If you prefer a bit more kick, you can use a medium curry powder or add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper, but do be careful not to overpower the other lovely notes!

Can I use fresh mango instead of mango chutney?

While fresh mango is delicious, mango chutney provides a lovely sweetness, tang, and a slightly thicker consistency that works perfectly in the sauce. If you must use fresh, ensure it's very ripe and finely diced, but you might need to adjust the sweetness with a tiny touch of honey or sugar.

What if I don't have crème fraîche?

Not to worry! Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute, offering a similar tang and creaminess. You could also use extra mayonnaise for a richer sauce, or even a dollop of sour cream.