Did you know that over 27 million servings of coronation chicken were consumed during the coronation celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953? This beloved British classic has stood the test of time, becoming a staple in homes and restaurants across the country. Originating from a recipe developed by writer Constance Spry and the founder of the famous Le Cordon Bleu cookery school, Rosemary Hume, this coronation chicken recipe features cooked chicken in a simple curried mayonnaise dressing, often with the addition of dried apricots or sultanas.
Over the years, the dish has evolved with various interpretations, but the original version remains a beloved staple in the UK, perfect for coronation chicken sandwiches, coronation chicken salads, or a light coronation chicken lunch. This homemade coronation chicken recipe captures the essence of the classic dish, with a balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of British culinary heritage.
Uncovering the History of Coronation Chicken
The origins of the beloved coronation chicken recipe can be traced back to the year 1953 and the momentous coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. This quintessentially British dish was created specifically for the royal banquet held to celebrate the Queen’s ascension to the throne.
Constance Spry and Rosemary Hume’s Creation
The recipe for coronation chicken was developed by two renowned culinary figures of the time – writer Constance Spry and the founder of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu cookery school, Rosemary Hume. These visionary chefs collaborated to design a dish that would both delight the guests and pay homage to the historic occasion.
From Royal Banquet to British Culinary Icon
The original coronation chicken recipe featured cooked chicken in a savory, slightly sweet curried mayonnaise dressing, often accompanied by the addition of dried apricots or sultanas. This delightful blend of flavors proved to be an immediate hit at the royal banquet, and the dish quickly gained popularity among the British public, becoming a beloved culinary icon that has stood the test of time.
Mastering the Coronation Chicken Recipe
To make an authentic coronation chicken at home, we’ll need a few key ingredients: cooked chicken, mayonnaise, crème fraîche or whipped cream, curry powder, dried apricots or sultanas, and a few other seasonings. The dressing comes together quickly, with the curry powder, lemon juice, and a touch of sugar creating a balance of flavors that captures the essence of this beloved British classic.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
The foundation of a great coronation chicken recipe lies in the quality of the ingredients. Start with tender, cooked chicken that has been shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces. For the dressing, you’ll want to use a combination of mayonnaise and crème fraîche or whipped cream to achieve a rich, creamy texture. The signature flavor profile comes from the aromatic curry powder, which should be balanced with a touch of sweetness from dried apricots or sultanas.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results
Once you have your coronation chicken ingredients assembled, the preparation is straightforward. Begin by mixing the mayonnaise, crème fraîche or whipped cream, curry powder, lemon juice, and a pinch of sugar in a large bowl. Gently fold in the cooked, shredded chicken and the dried apricots or sultanas until everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’re ready to serve!
Cooking and Preparing the Chicken
For the most flavorful coronation chicken, we recommend starting with poached or roasted chicken breasts. Poaching the chicken in a light broth or stock will keep it tender and juicy, while roasting will impart a delightful caramelized flavor. Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to cool completely before shredding or dicing it into the desired bite-sized pieces.
Serving and Enjoying Coronation Chicken
Coronation chicken is a wonderfully versatile dish that we can savor in a variety of ways. The classic serving suggestion is as a sandwich filler, where the creamy, slightly tangy chicken salad pairs perfectly with soft bread or a crusty baguette. For a lighter meal, we can also serve coronation chicken over a bed of salad greens or as a topping for a baked potato.
When it comes to coronation chicken serving ideas, the possibilities are endless. We can use it as a filling for tea sandwiches, or scoop it onto toasted brioche buns for a delightful lunch. For a heartier coronation chicken meal, we can serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
One of our favorite ways to enjoy coronation chicken is in a coronation chicken salad. The creamy, flavorful chicken pairs beautifully with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing. It’s a refreshing and satisfying option for a summer picnic or a light dinner.
And let’s not forget the classic coronation chicken sandwich. Layered between slices of crusty bread or tucked into a soft bun, this beloved chicken salad makes for a perfect midday coronation chicken meal idea. Whether you’re packing it for a work lunch or serving it up at a family gathering, this quintessential British dish is sure to delight.