Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe – A Fusion Of Flavors - Soup Chick (2024)

Finding a dish that effortlessly combines exotic flavors with familiar comfort can be challenging. That’s where the Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe steps in, a culinary gem that blends creamy, curried luxury with the simplicity of a chicken salad.

This unique recipe caught my attention during a summer gathering, where its unexpected yet harmonious flavors left a lasting impression.

I was faced with the dilemma of preparing an exciting and comforting meal, so I turned to this dish.

Its rich history, tracing back to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, adds a touch of elegance to any occasion.

The salad’s creamy texture, punctuated by bursts of fruity sweetness and the warmth of curry, offers a delightful sensory experience.

What Is Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe?

Coronation Chicken Salad is a classic British dish created for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. It features cold, cooked chicken in a creamy curry dressing, often with mayonnaise and yogurt.

For crunch, the salad is enhanced with mixed herbs, sultanas or raisins, and sometimes almonds.

It’s typically seasoned with curry powder and lemon juice, balancing spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors.

This versatile dish can be served as a sandwich filling or on a bed of lettuce, making it a popular choice for picnics, luncheons, and festive occasions.

What Is The Origin Of Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe?

Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe originated in 1953, created for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation banquet.

Conceived by chef Rosemary Hume and food writer Constance Spry, the recipe was designed to be a practical yet elegant dish suitable for large-scale events.

It was initially named “Poulet Reine Elizabeth.” The recipe combined cold, cooked chicken with a creamy, curry-flavored sauce, incorporating a blend of mayonnaise, curry powder, and herbs.

This blend of British and Indian flavors reflected the post-war era’s culinary diversity and the Commonwealth’s influence.

Since then, Coronation Chicken has become a British classic, often served at celebrations and casual meals.

Ingredients List

What Are The Tips For The Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe?

• Quality Chicken: Use fresh, quality chicken. Poaching the chicken in aromatic broth enhances flavor.
• Balance Flavors: Carefully balance the curry’s spice with the chutney’s sweetness and lemon juice’s tanginess.
• Homemade Mayo: If possible, use homemade mayonnaise for a richer taste.
• Let it Marinate: Allow the chicken to marinate in the sauce for a few hours for deeper flavor.
• Consistency of Sauce: Adjust the sauce’s consistency by adding more mayonnaise or yogurt to your liking.
• Toasting Nuts: Toast almonds to enhance their flavor and crunch.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro add a burst of freshness.
• Chill Before Serving: Serve chilled for a refreshing taste, especially in warmer weather.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the amount of curry, chutney, and dried fruits according to your taste preferences.
• Garnish: Garnish with extra herbs or nuts before serving for an appealing presentation.

Are There Any Unusual Or Exotic Ingredients That Work Well With This Salad?

Coronation Chicken Salad is a classic dish, but you can introduce unusual or exotic ingredients for a unique twist:

• Mango Chutney: Adds a sweet, fruity, and slightly spicy flavor.
• Cashews or Almonds: Provide a nutty crunch and richness.
• Pineapple Chunks: Bring tropical sweetness and a juicy texture.
• Curry Leaves: Infuse aromatic, earthy notes.
• Greek Yogurt: A tangy twist on the traditional mayo base.
• Cilantro or Mint: Fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
• Saffron Threads: Add vibrant color and a subtle floral aroma.
• Roasted Coconut Flakes: Impart a toasty, coconutty depth.

Recipe Directions

Prepare The Chicken

• Combine chicken, salt, peppercorns, bay leaf, onion, and cinnamon sticks in a large saucepan or soup pot.
• Add enough water to cover everything by 1 inch. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.
• Let simmer until the chicken is cooked, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Let the chicken cool in the broth.

Shred The Chicken

• Transfer the cooled chicken to a cutting board, reserving the broth for another use.
• Pull the meat off the bones, discarding the skin. Shred or dice the meat into bite-size pieces.

Assemble The Salad

• Whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, chutney, curry paste or powder, dried apricots or raisins, and lemon or lime juice in a large bowl.
• Fold in the chicken, almonds, cilantro, or scallion. Add a little more mayonnaise if the mixture seems dry.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add more curry paste or powder, chutney, lemon or lime juice, salt, and pepper as needed.

Rest And Serve

• For the best flavor, let the mixture rest for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• The salad will be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Wellness in a bowl. Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe brings health and flavour together.

What Herbs And Spices Work Well In Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe?

• Curry Powder: A key spice that gives the salad its signature flavor, offering warmth and depth.
• Cinnamon: Often used in the poaching liquid for the chicken, adding a subtle sweetness.
• Bay Leaves: Included in the poaching process, imparting a subtle, herbal flavor to the chicken.
• Fresh Cilantro or Scallions: These herbs add a fresh, bright taste and a lovely green color.
• Black Peppercorns: They lend a sharp, aromatic quality to the poaching liquid.
• Turmeric: For an extra hint of earthiness and color, especially if your curry powder is milder.
• Ginger: Fresh or powdered, it adds a spicy, warm note.
• Lemon or Lime Zest: Adds a citrusy zing, complementing the creamy and spicy elements.
• Garam Masala: A pinch can deepen the curry flavor profile.
• Fresh Mint: For a refreshing contrast, especially in warmer weather.

Nutritional Values

A typical serving of Coronation Chicken Salad is moderately high in calories. It contains a good amount of protein and fats, with a moderate level of carbohydrates.

What Are The Total Calories In The Salad?

A standard serving of Coronation Chicken Salad typically contains around 300-400 calories, with significant amounts of protein (20-30 grams), fat (20-30 grams), and moderate carbohydrates (15-25 grams).

Health Benefits Of Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe

Coronation Chicken Salad offers several health benefits:

Nutrition Table

What Dressings Are Best Served With Coronation Chicken Salad?

Coronation Chicken Salad pairs well with various dressings to enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent dressing options:

• Mango Chutney Dressing: Adds sweetness and fruity depth to complement the salad’s flavors.
• Curry Mayonnaise: Offers a rich, savory, and slightly spicy twist.
• Greek Yogurt Cumin Dressing: A healthier, tangy choice with earthy cumin notes.
• Lemon Herb Vinaigrette: Adds zesty brightness and a fresh herbal touch.
• Honey Mustard: Balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness and tang.
• Tamarind Chutney Dressing: Provides a sweet and tart profile with an Indian-inspired flair.
• Coconut Lime Dressing: A tropical option with a creamy, zesty kick.

Nourish your palate with the iconic Coronation Chicken Salad -A healthy option.

Are There Any Unique Toppings That Can Elevate The Crunch Factor?

• Fried Shallots: Thinly sliced and fried to a crisp, they add a savory crunch.
• Crispy Chickpeas: Roasted or air-fried until crunchy, a protein-packed option.
• Puffed Quinoa: Light and crispy, it brings a subtle nutty flavor.
• Sesame Brittle: A sweet and savory shard of crunch, adding an unexpected twist.
• Crispy Kale Chips: Oven-baked for a healthy, crunchy addition.
• Toasted Coconut Flakes: They add a tropical, sweet crunch.
• Pickled Red Onion Rings: Thinly sliced, pickled, and fried for a tangy crunch.
• Toasted Buckwheat (Kasha): Nutty and crunchy, ideal for a textural contrast.
• Parmesan Crisps: Baked into thin, crunchy discs.
• Wasabi Peas: For a spicy, crunchy kick.

What Is The Difference Between Homemade And Store-Bought Coronation Chicken Salad?

• Freshness: Homemade salads typically use fresher ingredients compared to store-bought, which may have been prepped days in advance.
• Ingredient Quality: You have control over the quality and source of ingredients in homemade salads.
• Customization: Homemade salads allow for personalization regarding ingredients, flavors, and dietary needs.
• Nutritional Value: You can make healthier choices with homemade salads, avoiding preservatives and additives common in store-bought versions.
• Flavor: Homemade salads often taste fresher and can be seasoned to your preference.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Making salads at home can be more economical than buying pre-made salads.
• Packaging and Environment: Homemade salads reduce packaging waste, unlike store-bought salads that often come in single-use plastic.
• Portion Sizes: You can control portion sizes more effectively at home.
• Preservatives and Additives: Store-bought salads may contain preservatives to extend shelf life, which are absent in homemade versions.
• Variety and Creativity: Homemade salads offer endless possibilities to experiment and try new recipes.

How Can You Store Or Preserve The Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe Leftovers?

• Airtight Container: Store the salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.
• Refrigeration: To slow bacterial growth, keep the salad refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C).
• Consume Quickly: Ideally, consume the leftovers within 2-3 days.
• Separate Components: Store the dressing separately from the chicken and other ingredients to maintain texture.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing may alter the texture of the mayonnaise and other creamy ingredients, leading to separation when thawed.
• Stir Before Serving: If the ingredients have settled or separated, stir the salad well before serving.
• Check Before Eating: Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers.
• Keep Cool During Transport: If taking the salad on the go, use an ice pack to keep it cool.

Special Tools & Equipment List

• Food Processor: Ideal for chopping, grinding, and blending ingredients quickly.
• Stand Mixer: Essential for baking, it’s perfect for mixing doughs and batters.
• Immersion Blender: Great for pureeing soups and sauces directly in the pot.
• Mandoline Slicer: Provides uniform slices of fruits and vegetables.
• Digital Kitchen Scale: Ensures precise ingredient measurements for consistent results.
• Pressure Cooker: Speeds up the cooking process, especially for tougher cuts of meat and legumes.
• Sous Vide Machine: For precision cooking, ensuring perfect temperature control.
• Cast Iron Skillet: Versatile for both stovetop and oven cooking, excellent for searing and baking.
• Silicone Baking Mats: Reusable and non-stick, ideal for baking and roasting.
• Spice Grinder: For freshly ground spices, enhancing flavor profiles in dishes.
• Thermometer: Essential for checking the doneness of meats and baked goods.
• Pasta Maker: For homemade pasta, fresh and customized pasta dishes are allowed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Leftover Chicken Or Rotisserie Chicken For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, including leftovers or rotisserie chicken. Just skip the poaching step and shred or dice the chicken.

Is There A Substitute For Mango Chutney?

If you don’t have mango chutney, you can use apricot jam mixed with a bit of vinegar for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.

Can This Salad Be Made Ahead Of Time?

Yes, it’s better when made ahead. The flavors meld together beautifully when refrigerated for a few hours or overnight.

What Are Some Vegetarian Alternatives For Chicken In This Recipe?

Chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh are great vegetarian substitutes. They absorb the flavors well and offer a similar protein-rich texture.

How Long Can I Store Coronation Chicken Salad In The Fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days. However, the texture is best in the first 24 hours.

Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe – A Fusion Of Flavors

5 from 4 votes

Recipe by Lana RiveraCourse: Salads

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour

Calories

400

kcal

Experience a fusion of flavors with this Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe. It combines tender chicken in a creamy curry sauce, enhanced with sweet fruits and crunchy almonds. Perfect for a refreshing lunch or a picnic dish, this salad is a nod to tradition and a taste adventure.

Ingredients

• For The Chicken

• 3½ to 4 Pounds 3½ to 4 Bone-In Chicken Parts (all breasts or a combination)

• 1 Tablespoon 1 Fine Sea Or Table Salt, Plus More To Taste

• 1 Teaspoon 1 Black Peppercorns

• 1 1 Bay Leaf

• 1 1 Onion

• 1 1 Cinnamon Stick

• For The Salad

• ½ Cup ½ Mayonnaise, preferably homemade

• ½ Cup ½ Plain Greek Yogurt, Sour Cream, or Crème Fraîche

• 3 Tablespoons 3 Mango Chutney, chopped if large pieces

• 1 Tablespoon 1 Curry Paste or Powder (such as Madras)

• ⅓ cup ⅓ Diced Dried Apricots or Golden Raisins

• 3 Tablespoons 3 Fresh lemon or Lime Juice

• ½ Cup ½ Sliced Almonds, Toasted

• ¼ Cup ¼ Chopped Cilantro, Leaves And Tender Stems, or scallions

• Fine Sea or Table Salt And Freshly Ground Black Pepper, To Taste (As needed)

Step-By-Step Directions

• Prepare The Chicken
  Place the chicken parts in a large saucepan. Add enough water to cover the chicken by 1 inch.
  Add 1 tablespoon of salt, peppercorns, bay leaf, quartered onion, and cinnamon stick to the pot.
  Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let the chicken cool in the broth.
• Shred The Chicken
  Remove the chicken from the broth and transfer it to a cutting board. Reserve the broth for another use if desired.
  Discard the skin and bones, and shred or dice the chicken meat into bite-size pieces.
• Make The Salad Dressing
  Whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, mango chutney, curry paste or powder, and lemon or lime juice in a large bowl.
  Combine the Ingredients
  Fold the shredded chicken, diced dried apricots or golden raisins, and toasted almonds into the dressing.
  Add chopped cilantro or scallions. Mix well.
• Season The Salad
  Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more curry paste or powder, chutney, lemon or lime juice, salt, and pepper as needed.
• Let The Salad Rest
  Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
• Serve
  Serve the Coronation Chicken Salad chilled. It can be served on its own, as a sandwich filling, or over a bed of lettuce.

Recipe Video

https://youtu.be/qIPouLF4KYg?si=75gDaC6U5djPAibz

Notes

• Flavor Enhancement: Letting the salad rest for at least 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavors.
• Curry Variation: The type and amount of curry powder or paste can be adjusted based on your heat preference.
• Nut Allergies: If allergies are a concern, omit the almonds or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
• Serving Suggestions: This salad is versatile – great on its own, as a filling for sandwiches, or over a bed of greens.
• Dairy-Free Options: For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayonnaise and omit the yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Storage: If not serving immediately, store in the fridge in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

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