When I first experimented with Coronation Chicken, I hit upon something truly special. The delightful combination of tender chicken enveloped in a spiced mayonnaise kicked off a taste adventure that had my family and friends raving. The rich flavor of curry coupled with sweet raisins and the crunch of toasted almonds creates an enticing contrast that turns a simple salad into an elegant centerpiece. Whether you’re looking for a fresh and sophisticated lunch idea or planning to impress guests at a gathering, this classic dish has you covered.
Perfect for any time of year, Coronation Chicken is versatile too easily adapting to your pantry staples or personal taste. Let’s dive into how this dish came to be and why it deserves a spot on your table today!
Why is Coronation Chicken a Must-Try?
Flavor Fusion: The unique blend of warm curry and sweet raisins creates a taste sensation that’s both comforting and exotic.
Effortlessly Elegant: Serve this dish for a family lunch or a sophisticated gathering, and watch it become the star of the table.
Easy Preparation: Quick and simple to make, even beginners can whip up this flavorful salad without stress.
Customizable Options: Substitute ingredients based on what you have at home, whether it’s chicken or chickpeas, making it perfect for every dietary need.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it in advance, letting the flavors meld, so you can enjoy stress-free entertaining.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its visually appealing presentation atop fresh lettuce leaves, it’s sure to impress guests and leave them craving more!
Coronation Chicken Ingredients
For the Salad
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – A hearty main protein for a satisfying dish; rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
- Kosher salt – Enhances the flavor of the chicken; adjust to your personal taste.
- Celery (finely chopped) – Adds a delightful crunch; swap with diced apples for a hint of sweetness.
- Scallions (finely chopped) – Provides a mild onion flavor; chives or red onion work as tasty substitutes.
- Raisins (preferably golden) – Introduces a sweet contrast to the spices; consider purple raisins, currants, or chopped dried apricots if you enjoy variety.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base of your sauce; Greek yogurt can lighten it up nicely.
- Curry powder – Infuses warmth and depth; don’t hesitate to try different spice blends to find your favorite!
- Fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dish to balance flavors; lime juice is an excellent alternative if you prefer a twist.
For the Presentation
- Head of Bibb lettuce – Serves as a beautiful base and a refreshing crunch; feel free to swap it for spinach or other leafy greens.
- Toasted sliced almonds – Brings a nutty crunch and richness; walnuts or pecans can be delightful substitutes.
This delectable Coronation Chicken salad is not only a delight to the palate but a feast for the eyes too!
How to Make Coronation Chicken
- Cook Chicken: Poach the boneless chicken thighs or breasts in salted water for about 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through. Let it cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, curry powder, and fresh lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well blended.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, chopped celery, scallions, and raisins to the sauce. Gently mix until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the curried mayonnaise.
- Serve: Spoon the coronation chicken mixture onto fresh Bibb lettuce leaves. Top with toasted almonds for an added crunch and delightful flavor contrast.
Optional: Serve chilled for an even more refreshing taste.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Coronation Chicken
- Juicy Chicken: Poach the chicken gently; overcooking can lead to dryness. Perfect poaching ensures a succulent texture in your Coronation Chicken.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This melding of flavors makes a delightful difference!
- Taste Test: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A dash of extra salt or lemon juice can elevate your Coronation Chicken to perfection.
- Crunch Factor: Don’t skip the toasted almonds! They add a fantastic crunch that balances the creaminess of the dressing.
- Ingredient Flexibility: Feel free to be creative with your ingredient substitutions based on what you have; the versatility of Coronation Chicken allows endless possibilities!
How to Store and Freeze Coronation Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Coronation Chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to save your Coronation Chicken for later, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to store it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, or enjoy it cold right from the fridge. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Make-Ahead Tip: This salad can be made a day ahead. Just prepare and store it in the fridge to let the flavors meld beautifully before serving.
Coronation Chicken Variations
Feel free to play with this delightful recipe and make it your own with these fun variations!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with avocado or a dairy-free mayo to keep it creamy without the dairy.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with cooked chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version packed with protein.
- Fruit Fusion: Use dried cranberries, figs, or chopped dried apricots instead of raisins for a unique twist on sweetness.
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat that elevates the flavors.
- Nutty Substitution: Swap sliced almonds for toasted walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor and crunch.
- Fresh Herb Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to give the dish a fragrant, refreshing profile.
This versatility makes it easy to adapt Coronation Chicken to what you have on hand or what you feel like enjoying. Happy cooking!
What to Serve with Coronation Chicken?
When you’re about to indulge in a delightful Coronation Chicken salad, it’s important to consider how to round out your meal experience.
- Crispy Crackers: Perfect for a satisfying crunch, crackers add a delightful texture contrast that complements the creamy chicken salad beautifully.
- Toasted Brioche Buns: Serve the Coronation Chicken on toasted brioche for a rich, buttery flavor that elevates the experience and creates a lovely sandwich.
- Garden Fresh Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette enhances the meal with freshness, balancing the richness of the chicken salad.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies not only add vibrant colors to your plate, but their caramelized flavors draw out the best in the chicken’s spices.
- Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine pairs excellently, its acidity highlighting the creamy and spiced elements of the dish without overpowering it.
- Refreshing Lemonade: A homemade lemonade offers a bright, citrusy note that refreshes your palate and harmonizes with the Coronation Chicken’s flavor profile.
- Mini Fruit Tartlets: For dessert, these sweet treats provide a delightful contrast to the savory salad, leaving a light and happy finish to your meal.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: The satisfying warmth of cheesy garlic bread serves as a comforting side, perfect for scooping up any leftover chicken salad.
- Herbed Quinoa: A light, fluffy side of herbed quinoa adds nutritional value while providing a subtle nutty flavor that complements the Coronation Chicken perfectly.
Make Ahead Options
These Coronation Chicken salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the chicken and prepare the curried mayonnaise up to 24 hours in advance; this allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Simply poach the chicken, cool it, and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Mix it with the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Just remember to add the toasted almonds right before serving to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, spoon the coronation chicken onto fresh Bibb lettuce, and you’ll have a vibrant, delicious meal that’s just as delightful as if it were made fresh!
Coronation Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for Coronation Chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my go-to for this recipe as they remain juicy even after cooking. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just ensure any pre-cooked chicken is shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
How should I store leftover Coronation Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so you can whip it out for a quick lunch or snack!
Can I freeze Coronation Chicken for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze, transfer your Coronation Chicken to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and it’s good to go!
What should I do if my chicken turns out dry?
Very understandable! If your chicken ends up a bit dry, consider mixing in a little extra mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to add moisture and creaminess. You can also try poaching the chicken again in a little broth or water on low heat until it warms through—this usually helps revive its juiciness.
Is Coronation Chicken safe for pets?
Great question! While chicken itself is safe, be cautious with seasoning and any added ingredients like onion or garlic, which can be harmful. If you’d like to share, offer plain, cooked chicken without sauce in moderation.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
The more the merrier! Substitute the chicken with cooked chickpeas or diced tofu for a hearty vegetarian version. You can also up the flavor by adding extra spices or even roasting vegetables to mix in for more depth!
Delicious Coronation Chicken Salad for Effortless Entertaining
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Poach the boneless chicken thighs or breasts in salted water for about 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through. Let it cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, curry powder, and fresh lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well blended.
- Add the cooked chicken, chopped celery, scallions, and raisins to the sauce. Gently mix until the chicken is thoroughly coated.
- Spoon the coronation chicken mixture onto fresh Bibb lettuce leaves. Top with toasted almonds.