Coronation Chicken is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of curry spices with the creamy texture of mayonnaise and the tender succulence of chicken.
Originating from the United Kingdom, this dish has gained popularity across the globe, including in South Africa, where it is enjoyed as a cold salad or sandwich filling.
This guide is designed to introduce novice cooks to the delightful world of Coronation Chicken, breaking down each step into simple, easy-to-follow instructions.
Whether you’re preparing a meal for a family gathering or looking to add an exotic touch to your culinary repertoire.
This guide will walk you through creating a delicious Coronation Chicken dish that serves four people.
Ingredients:
To serve four people, you will need:
For the Chicken:
- 500g chicken breast fillets
- 1 litre chicken stock (you can use 2 stock cubes dissolved in 1 litre of boiling water)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons of mild curry powder
- 1 teaspoon of tomato purée
- 150ml dry white wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 slice of lemon
- A pinch of sugar
- Salt to taste
- 150ml mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of apricot jam
- 2 tablespoons of fresh cream
- 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
- 30g sultanas
- 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh coriander
For Garnishing:
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
Poach the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large pot.
- Pour the chicken stock over the chicken, ensuring it’s completely submerged.
- Bring to a simmer on medium heat, then reduce to low and poach gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken cool in the stock.
Shred the Chicken:
- Once cooled, take the chicken out of the stock.
- Using two forks or your fingers, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
Making the Sauce:
Sauté the Onion:
- Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Spices and Simmer:
- Stir in the curry powder and tomato purée, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine, add the bay leaf, lemon slice, and a pinch of sugar.
- Simmer gently until the liquid is reduced by half, about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and discard the bay leaf and lemon slice.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely.
Combine with Mayonnaise:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled curry mixture with mayonnaise, apricot jam, fresh cream, and lemon juice.
- Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Add Final Touches:
- Stir in the sultanas and chopped coriander.
- Season with salt to taste.
Combining Chicken and Sauce:
- Mix Chicken with Sauce:
- Pour the sauce over the shredded chicken.
- Gently mix until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Chill Before Serving:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving:
- Serve chilled on a bed of lettuce leaves or as a filling for sandwiches.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and sliced almonds, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooled before shredding to avoid it becoming mushy.
- Adjust the level of curry powder to suit your taste for spiciness.
- The dish can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, which enhances its flavors.
- For a healthier version, use low-fat mayonnaise and cream.
Coronation Chicken Side Dishes
1. Lightly Dressed Mixed Greens Salad
A mixed greens salad, lightly dressed with a vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy and rich flavors of Coronation Chicken.
The crispness of fresh lettuce, arugula, and spinach, combined with the tangy dressing, cleanses the palate and balances the meal, making it a perfect, light side dish.
2. Cucumber and Dill Salad
Cucumber and dill salad brings a cool and refreshing element to the table.
Thinly sliced cucumbers mixed with fresh dill, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a hint of garlic in a light yogurt dressing complements the spicy notes of the Coronation Chicken, adding a fresh, herby dimension to your meal.
3. Mango Chutney and Red Onion Relish
The sweet and tangy flavors of mango chutney mixed with finely chopped red onion create a relish that enhances the fruity and spicy notes of Coronation Chicken.
This relish adds a vibrant burst of flavor and color, making it an exotic and flavorful accompaniment.
4. Basmati Rice Pilaf
A fragrant Basmati rice pilaf, cooked with a hint of saffron, cloves, and cinnamon, offers a subtle aromatic base that complements the bold flavors of Coronation Chicken.
The light, fluffy grains provide a comforting texture and a neutral backdrop, allowing the main dish to shine.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes, seasoned with a sprinkle of cumin and smoked paprika, bring a sweet and smoky flavor to the meal.
Their natural sweetness and soft texture provide a comforting and hearty side that pairs beautifully with the creamy and spiced chicken.
6. Naan Bread
Warm, buttery naan bread serves as a delightful accompaniment to Coronation Chicken.
Its soft, pillowy texture is perfect for scooping up the chicken and its sauce, adding a touch of traditional Indian flair to the meal and ensuring no delicious sauce goes to waste.
7. Quinoa and Almond Salad
A quinoa and almond salad offers a nutritious and crunchy side dish.
The nutty flavors of quinoa and toasted almonds, mixed with chopped parsley and a lemony dressing, provide a wholesome and textured contrast to the smooth and creamy Coronation Chicken, making it a balanced and healthy option.