Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe

Introduction & Background

Coronation chicken salad has roots in British culinary history. It was created in 1953 for the coronation luncheon of Queen Elizabeth II. The dish was developed by renowned chefs Constance Spry and Rosemary Hume at Le Cordon Bleu in London. Their goal was to design a dish that was elegant, easy to serve to large crowds, and suited to post-war Britain, where ingredients were still limited.

The original recipe used cold cooked chicken, a curry-flavored mayonnaise dressing, and dried fruits for a hint of sweetness. Over the decades, the salad has evolved, with many variations incorporating yogurt, fresh herbs, or different spices. Despite the updates, its core identity remains—a lightly spiced, creamy chicken salad with a balance of savory and sweet flavors.

What is Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe?

Coronation chicken salad is a classic British dish that blends tender cooked chicken with a creamy, lightly spiced dressing. The dressing is usually made with mayonnaise, curry powder, and a touch of sweetness from ingredients like apricot puree, mango chutney, or sultanas. This balance of savory, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors gives the salad its signature taste.

Unlike a regular chicken salad, coronation chicken has a distinctive golden color from the curry powder and often includes dried fruits or nuts for extra texture. It’s typically served cold, making it a refreshing yet satisfying option for lunches, picnics, or party spreads.

Key Ingredients

The charm of coronation chicken salad lies in the harmony of its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a role in creating its signature taste and texture.

Chicken

Traditionally, poached or roasted chicken breast is used for its tender texture and mild flavor. You can also use leftover roast chicken, which makes the recipe quicker and reduces waste. The meat is usually shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces.

Dressing Base

• Mayonnaise: The creamy foundation of the dressing, giving it a rich mouthfeel.
• Yogurt or Crème Fraîche (optional): Lightens the dressing while adding a subtle tang, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise.

Curry Flavoring

Curry Powder:

The defining spice of coronation chicken. It brings warmth and gentle heat without overpowering the dish. Some recipes bloom the curry powder in a little oil before mixing, enhancing its aroma and depth of flavor.

Sweet Elements

Mango Chutney, Apricot Purée, or Sultanas:

These add a fruity sweetness that balances the savory and spiced notes. They also contribute to the salad’s distinct British-Asian fusion flavor.

Fresh Accents

• Lemon Juice: Cuts through the creaminess with a fresh, citrusy brightness.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley, coriander, or chives can add color and freshness.

Seasoning

Salt & Pepper:

Essential for bringing out the flavors of all ingredients. When combined, these elements create a balanced mix of creamy, sweet, and spiced flavors that make coronation chicken salad so memorable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making coronation chicken salad is straightforward, but a few small steps help achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re cooking fresh chicken, poach or roast chicken breasts until fully cooked and tender. Let them cool completely. Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Using cooled chicken helps the dressing cling better and prevents it from becoming watery.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise with a few spoonfuls of yogurt or crème fraîche (optional) for a lighter, tangier taste. Add curry powder. For a richer flavor, briefly toast the curry powder in a dry pan or in a little oil before mixing. Stir in mango chutney, apricot purée, or sultanas for sweetness. Adjust the amount depending on how sweet you prefer it. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Dressing

Gently fold the chicken into the dressing, making sure every piece is evenly coated. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.

Step 4: Chill for Best Flavor

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the curry notes to develop fully.

Step 5: Final Touches

Just before serving, check the seasoning and adjust if needed. Sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley, coriander, or chives on top for color and freshness.

Recipe Tips & Variations

Coronation chicken salad is a flexible recipe, which means you can adjust it to suit your taste, dietary needs, or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some ideas to help you perfect and personalize it:

Recipe Tips

• Use Cold Chicken: Chilling the chicken before mixing prevents the dressing from separating and keeps the salad fresh for longer.
• Toast the Curry Powder: Warming the curry powder for 30–60 seconds in a dry pan or a little oil deepens its flavor and removes any raw spice taste.
• Balance Sweetness: Taste the dressing before adding all the sweet elements. Start small with chutney or dried fruit, then increase to your preference.
• Adjust Creaminess: If the salad feels too thick, loosen it with a little milk, cream, or even a splash of orange juice for a fruity note.
• Make Ahead: Coronation chicken often tastes better after a few hours in the fridge, so prepare it in advance for parties or picnics.

Variations

• Healthier Version: Replace part or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for more protein and less fat.
• Nutty Crunch:  Add toasted almonds, cashews, or walnuts for texture and a richer flavor.
• Fresh Fruit Twist: Fold in diced apples, grapes, or pineapple for a juicy bite.
• Herb Boost: Swap parsley for fresh coriander or mint for a more vibrant, aromatic flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Use chickpeas or roasted cauliflower in place of chicken for a plant-based alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you want more heat.

Serving Ideas

One of the best things about coronation chicken salad is its versatility. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, a picnic, or an elegant afternoon tea, there’s a way to serve it that fits the occasion perfectly.

Sandwiches & Wraps

Spread generously between slices of crusty bread, soft sandwich bread, or inside buttery croissants for a rich and satisfying meal. Use as a filling for tortilla wraps, adding crisp lettuce or cucumber slices for extra crunch.

Over Fresh Greens

Serve a scoop of coronation chicken on a bed of mixed salad leaves, baby spinach, or rocket for a light yet flavorful lunch. Top with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added texture.

Stuffed Potatoes

Spoon the salad into baked jacket potatoes for a hearty and comforting dinner option. For a lighter version, use sweet potatoes, which complement the curry and fruit notes beautifully.

Party & Buffet Style

Serve in mini pastry shells, vol-au-vents, or lettuce cups for bite-sized appetizers. Use as a topping for crackers or toasted baguette slices during gatherings.

Afternoon Tea Tradition

Pair with finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries as part of a traditional British afternoon tea spread. Its light curry flavor contrasts nicely with the sweetness of tea cakes and desserts.

Storage & Leftovers

Coronation chicken salad stores well, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days, picnics, or parties. Proper storage ensures the salad stays fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat.

Storage Guidelines

• Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days if kept chilled at 4°C (40°F) or below.
• Avoid Room Temperature: Because it contains mayonnaise and cooked chicken, coronation chicken salad should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Leftover Tips

• Reviving Texture: If the salad thickens after refrigeration, loosen it with a small spoonful of yogurt, mayonnaise, or even a splash of milk before serving.
• Creative Uses: Leftovers make excellent sandwich fillings, jacket potato toppings, or wrap stuffings for the next day’s lunch.
• Batch-Freezing Warning: Freezing is not recommended, as mayonnaise-based dressings tend to separate and become watery once thawed.

Signs It’s No Longer Fresh

Discard if it develops an off smell, slimy texture, or any discoloration. Always err on the side of caution when dealing with chicken dishes to avoid foodborne illness.

Nutrition Information

The nutritional profile of coronation chicken salad can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size, but here’s a general idea for a typical serving (about 1 cup / 200g) made with mayonnaise, yogurt, mango chutney, and chicken breast.

Estimated Nutrition per Serving

• Calories: 300–350 kcal
• Protein: 22–25 g
• Fat: 15–20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3–5 g
• Carbohydrates: 15–20 g
• Sugars: 8–12 g
• Fiber: 1–2 g
• Sodium: 400–600 mg

Key Nutritional Points

• Protein-Rich: Chicken breast provides lean protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle health.
• Moderate Fat: Most of the fat comes from mayonnaise; using Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo can reduce the overall fat content.
• Sugar Content: The sweetness from mango chutney or dried fruits contributes to the sugar count; you can adjust or reduce this if you’re watching sugar intake.
• Customizable: By tweaking ingredients—such as swapping full-fat mayo for yogurt, adding extra veggies, or using less chutney—you can make the salad lighter without losing flavor.

Closing Notes

Coronation chicken salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a piece of culinary history that has stood the test of time. From its royal debut in 1953 to its place in modern kitchens, it continues to charm with its creamy texture, gentle curry spice, and sweet-savory balance.

Whether you serve it in delicate tea sandwiches, over a fresh green salad, or as a hearty baked potato topping, this dish adapts effortlessly to any setting. It’s simple to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for making ahead.

The beauty of coronation chicken lies in its versatility—you can keep it traditional for a nostalgic treat or put your own twist on it for something fresh and modern. However you make it, you’ll be carrying on a tradition that blends flavor, history, and a touch of elegance in every bite.

Conclusion

Coronation chicken salad is a timeless dish that blends history, flavor, and versatility into one satisfying recipe. With its creamy curry dressing, tender chicken, and hint of sweetness, it offers a unique taste that’s just as enjoyable today as it was at its royal debut. Whether you serve it for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a special gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Try the recipe, make it your own, and enjoy a dish truly fit for royalty.

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