Coronation Chicken: History, Ingredients, and Modern Serving Ideas

Coronation Chicken, also known as Poulet Reine Elizabeth, was created by Constance Spry and Rosemary Hume. They developed the dish for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation banquet held on June 2, 1953. Inspired by Jubilee Chicken, made for George V’s silver jubilee in 1935, Coronation Chicken combines poached chicken, mayonnaise, and curry powder.

Popularity Over the Years

Coronation Chicken quickly became popular after its introduction. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, it appeared at various social events and picnics. By the 1980s, it found a place in sandwich fillings and salad bowls across the UK. Today, Coronation Chicken remains a beloved staple, available in grocery stores and featured in modern recipes.

Key Ingredients in Coronation Chicken

Main Components and Variations

Coronation Chicken primarily features poached chicken, mayonnaise, and curry powder as its base. Start with high-quality, free-range chicken for the best texture and flavor. Tenderize the chicken by poaching it gently until cooked through, making it easy to shred or chop.

Mayonnaise acts as the creamy binder, lending a rich mouthfeel. Use full-fat mayonnaise for a classic taste, though reduced-fat varieties work if calorie-conscious. Curry powder provides the signature spice blend, balancing sweet and savory notes. Opt for mild curry powder or adjust the type based on your preference for heat.

Variations on the recipe include adding dried apricots for sweetness or toasted almonds for crunch. Some recipes incorporate Greek yogurt to lighten up the dish while retaining creaminess. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a burst of color and freshness.

Essential Spices and Flavorings

Curry powder is the essential spice in Coronation Chicken, delivering its iconic flavor profile. This blend typically contains turmeric, coriander, cumin, and fenugreek. Adjust the quantity to control the intensity of the dish’s flavor.

Next, ground ginger adds warmth and depth. Include garlic powder or fresh minced garlic to enhance the savory aspect. Lemon juice brightens the flavors, while a dash of salt and pepper rounds out the seasoning. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a spoonful of mango chutney or a sprinkle of raisins.

Integrate these spices and flavorings to maintain the dish’s traditional taste, or tweak them slightly to match your palate better.

Preparing Coronation Chicken

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Poach the Chicken

• Place 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a pot. Cover with water.
• Add one bay leaf and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
• Remove chicken from water, let cool, then shred or cube into bite-sized pieces.

1. Prepare the Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of full-fat mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of mild curry powder, and 1 tablespoon of mango chutney.
• Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
• Fold in 1/4 cup of finely chopped dried apricots or sultanas for added sweetness and texture.

1. Combine Chicken and Sauce

• Pour the prepared sauce over the shredded chicken. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

1. Chill and Serve

• Transfer the mixture to a serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Choose high-quality chicken and fresh spices for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients significantly impact the dish’s overall taste.

1. Adjust Seasoning

• Taste the sauce before combining it with the chicken. Adjust the curry powder, lemon juice, or mango chutney to suit your preference.

1. Add Texture

• Incorporate nuts like toasted almonds or cashews for an additional crunch. Mix these in just before serving to keep them crispy.

1. Serve Creatively

• Serve Coronation Chicken as a sandwich filling, on a bed of greens as a salad, or with jasmine rice for a complete meal.

1. Healthy Substitutions

• Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
• Use grilled or roasted chicken instead of poached if preferred.

By following these steps and tips, you can prepare a delicious and authentic Coronation Chicken dish that honors its royal origins while catering to modern tastes and preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Traditional Accompaniments

Serve Coronation Chicken with classic sides for an authentic experience. Pair it with rice salad, using a mix of wild and basmati rice, chopped fresh herbs, and diced vegetables like bell peppers and cucumber. Include freshly baked bread, such as a crusty baguette or soft rolls, to complement the dish. Offer crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. Consider adding a dollop of mango chutney on the side to enhance the overall taste. For a traditional beverage, serve with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Modern Serving Ideas

Explore contemporary variations to keep the dish exciting. Serve Coronation Chicken in whole-grain wraps or pita pockets for a portable option. Use it as a filling for stuffed avocados or bell pepper halves for a low-carb alternative. Add it to a mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of toasted almonds for a nutritious meal. Incorporate it into sandwich fillings using whole-grain bread and an array of fresh vegetables. Try serving it over a bed of quinoa, garnished with microgreens and a squeeze of lemon juice. Engage guests by offering it as a topping for bruschetta or crostini at parties.

Summing Up

Understanding the traditional and modern ways to serve Coronation Chicken ensures you can cater to various preferences and occasions. Experiment with these suggestions to discover your preferred way to enjoy this iconic dish.

Conclusion

Embracing Coronation Chicken in your culinary repertoire offers both a nod to history and a wealth of modern possibilities. Whether you stick to its classic form or experiment with contemporary twists, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it traditionally with rice salad or get creative with whole-grain wraps and stuffed avocados. Pair it with a refreshing drink, and you’ll have a meal that’s both flavorful and memorable. Dive into the rich flavors and versatile applications of Coronation Chicken, and you’ll see why it remains a beloved favorite.