Coronation Chicken Salad

Regal and Flavorful: Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe

Elevate your lunchtime experience with the regal flavors of Coronation Chicken Salad. This classic British dish, originally created for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, combines tender chicken with a creamy, spiced sauce, accented by the sweetness of dried apricots and the tanginess of mango chutney. Whether served atop a bed of greens, stuffed into a sandwich, or enjoyed on its own, this dish promises to delight your taste buds and transport you to culinary royalty. Join us as we delve into the exquisite flavors and easy preparation of this iconic recipe.

Ingredients

Meat

  • 3 cups Chicken, cooked

Produce

  • 1/3 cup Dried apricots
  • 3 tbsp Flat-leaf parsley
  • 2 tbsp Green onion
  • 1/3 cup Onion

Canned Goods

  • 2 tbsp Curry powder or curry paste
  • 1 tbsp Tomato paste

Condiments

  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp Mango chutney
  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise

Baking & Spices

  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
  • 1 tsp Salt

Oils & Vinegars

  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Cooking Chicken: Start by cooking the chicken if it’s not already cooked. You can boil, bake, or grill the chicken breasts until they are fully cooked. Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool before shredding or dicing it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Chopping Produce: Finely chop the dried apricots, flat-leaf parsley, green onion, and onion.

3. Prepare the Dressing:

  1. Making the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the curry powder or paste, tomato paste, lemon juice, mango chutney, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Combine Ingredients:

  1. Mixing Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped dried apricots, parsley, green onion, and onion.
  2. Adding Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy, spiced sauce.

5. Chill and Serve:

  1. Refrigerating: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  2. Serving: Once chilled, serve the Coronation Chicken Salad chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or sliced green onions if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Add Crunch: For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in toasted slivered almonds or chopped cashews to the chicken salad just before serving.
  • Swap Proteins: If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute cooked turkey, shrimp, or even chickpeas for the chicken to create a vegetarian version of this salad.
  • Adjust Spices: Adjust the amount of curry powder or paste to suit your taste preferences. For a milder flavor, use less curry, or for a spicier kick, add more.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Version:

  • Low-Carb Dressing: Substitute the mango chutney with a sugar-free version or omit it altogether to reduce the carb content of the dressing. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lower-carb option.
  • Serve on Greens: Enjoy the Coronation Chicken Salad over a bed of mixed greens or lettuce wraps instead of traditional bread or crackers to keep it keto-friendly.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Reduce Fruit: Decrease the amount of dried apricots or omit them entirely to reduce the carb content of the salad. You can also replace them with diced bell peppers or celery for added crunch.
  • Use Sugar-Free Sauce: Look for a sugar-free mango chutney or make your own using low-carb sweeteners to keep the sauce low in carbs.

In conclusion, Coronation Chicken Salad is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s fit for royalty. With its exotic blend of spices, creamy dressing, and vibrant colors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a luncheon, packing a picnic, or simply craving a delicious meal, this dish offers a taste of culinary elegance that’s both easy to make and delightful to enjoy. So why not treat yourself to a taste of regal indulgence with Coronation Chicken Salad today?

Additional Tips and Serving Suggestions

  • Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the chicken salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
  • Serve with Accompaniments: Enjoy the Coronation Chicken Salad on its own, stuffed into pita pockets, or served alongside crusty bread, crackers, or naan bread for a satisfying meal.
  • Creative Presentation: For an elegant presentation, garnish the chicken salad with additional dried apricots, parsley sprigs, or a sprinkle of curry powder before serving. Pair it with a refreshing beverage such as iced tea or a fruity mocktail for a complete dining experience.