Coronation Chicken Salad is a delightful British classic that was originally created for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. This version is simplified, combining slightly sweet, tangy, and mildly curried chicken with creamy mayonnaise and raisins or dried apricots. It’s perfect as a filling for finger sandwiches, making it ideal for an afternoon tea picnic or a light luncheon salad.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Coronation Chicken Salad:

• 1 lb. (450g) cooked chicken (about 3 cups diced or chopped)

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 3 tbsp mango chutney

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tsp curry powder (mild or medium)

• ¼ tsp sea salt

• ¼ tsp pepper

• ⅛ tsp cinnamon

• 3 tbsp raisins or chopped dried apricots

For Tea Sandwiches:

• 14 slices sandwich bread (gluten-free or regular)

• Butter

• Several handfuls of baby arugula (or greens of choice)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: If you haven’t cooked the chicken yet, poach, roast, or pan-fry the chicken breasts. Once cooked, chop the chicken into bite-sized chunks (or smaller for a sandwich filling).

2. Make the Salad: In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, chutney, lemon juice, curry powder, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and raisins (or apricots). Add the chopped chicken and mix gently to combine.

3. Prepare the Sandwiches: For tea sandwiches, spread a thin layer of butter on each slice of bread. Then, spread a generous amount of the coronation chicken salad onto half of the slices. Top with baby arugula or your preferred greens. Place the remaining bread slices on top to form sandwiches.

4. Cut the Sandwiches: For an elegant presentation, cut off the crusts and slice each sandwich into 4 triangles or 3-4 finger-sized pieces.

5. Serve: Arrange the sandwiches on a platter for an afternoon tea or serve them as a light lunch.

Nutrients

Each serving (1 sandwich) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Protein: 12g

• Fat: 16g

  • Saturated Fat: 3g

• Sodium: 400mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 6g

The Origins of Coronation Chicken Salad

Coronation Chicken Salad has its roots in the regal event of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. The dish was originally crafted by the renowned chef Constance Spry and was featured as part of the celebration menu for the occasion. The creation of the dish was a blend of British tradition with exotic ingredients, highlighting the spirit of post-war British cuisine while incorporating a nod to the Commonwealth and the Empire. The dish was named “Coronation Chicken,” and its unique flavor profile—spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet—made it an instant classic.

Over the decades, Coronation Chicken has evolved into a dish enjoyed by people of all walks of life, no longer limited to special royal events but becoming a fixture at picnics, tea parties, and casual gatherings. Its status as a comforting yet elegant dish has solidified its place in British culinary culture.

Why Coronation Chicken Salad Is a Timeless Favorite

The Coronation Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various forms, from a sandwich filling to a stand-alone salad or even as a topping for crackers. What makes it so appealing is the contrast of textures and flavors—the creamy, slightly tangy dressing that combines mayonnaise and mango chutney, paired with the mild heat of curry powder, creates a vibrant but well-balanced sauce. The addition of dried fruit, such as raisins or apricots, lends a natural sweetness that complements the savory chicken, making this dish uniquely delicious.

The ability to customize the salad with different greens or bread options makes it adaptable to various dietary preferences and occasions. Whether served in traditional white bread for an afternoon tea or with a gluten-free alternative, the Coronation Chicken Salad will always remain a favorite thanks to its deliciously complex flavor and rich, comforting texture.

The Ingredients Behind Coronation Chicken Salad

At the heart of Coronation Chicken Salad is its key ingredients, each contributing to its signature taste. The chicken serves as the base, and when cooked properly—whether through poaching, roasting, or pan-frying—it provides a tender and juicy foundation. Using pre-cooked chicken makes the salad quicker to assemble, but fresh, homemade chicken also works wonderfully for added flavor.

The dressing is what truly defines the dish. A mixture of mayonnaise and mango chutney creates a creamy yet slightly tangy base. The chutney adds a fruity sweetness with a mild heat, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise. Curry powder infuses the salad with its characteristic warmth, while the addition of cinnamon gives a surprising but subtle depth to the flavors. These elements come together to create a sauce that enhances the chicken without overpowering it.

Dried apricots or raisins provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken, adding texture and a burst of natural sweetness. The fruit pairs beautifully with the other ingredients and helps to round out the flavor profile.

How to Customize Your Coronation Chicken Salad

One of the best things about Coronation Chicken Salad is how easily it can be tailored to suit personal preferences. The base recipe, with chicken, curry, and mango chutney, is delicious as is, but there’s always room for creativity.

For example, if you prefer a spicier version, you could add a touch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the dressing to give it a little extra heat. You could also swap out the mango chutney for a different variety of chutney, such as apple or pear, for a slightly different flavor profile.

Vegetarians or those looking for a lighter version can substitute the chicken with tofu or roasted vegetables for a plant-based option. Additionally, if you want to add more texture or flavor, you can experiment with adding chopped nuts, such as cashews or almonds, which provide a satisfying crunch that complements the creaminess of the dressing.

For those who enjoy a more herby flavor, fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or mint can be incorporated into the salad to brighten the overall taste. These fresh additions provide a touch of color and aromatic appeal, adding a refreshing layer to the dish.

Serving Coronation Chicken Salad

Coronation Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Traditionally, it’s served as a filling for finger sandwiches during afternoon tea, where the creamy salad pairs perfectly with soft white bread and a handful of fresh greens. However, this dish can be enjoyed in a variety of ways depending on the occasion.

For a more substantial lunch, Coronation Chicken Salad can be served over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a light soup. This makes for a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. If you’re hosting a picnic, consider packing the salad in small containers for easy serving, or spread it onto croissants or baguette slices for a more casual and portable option.

For a slightly different twist, the Coronation Chicken Salad can be served as a dip with crackers or vegetable sticks. Its creamy texture and balanced flavor make it an excellent option for entertaining guests at parties or casual gatherings.

The Best Bread for Coronation Chicken Sandwiches

When making Coronation Chicken Sandwiches, the choice of bread can make a significant difference in the overall experience. Traditionally, soft white sandwich bread is used, as its neutral flavor complements the richness of the salad without overpowering it. If you’re looking for a more flavorful option, you could use whole wheat bread for added texture and nuttiness or a hearty sourdough for a tangy contrast.

For those who prefer gluten-free options, gluten-free bread is an excellent substitute. The texture and flavor of gluten-free bread have come a long way, and many varieties pair wonderfully with the creamy Coronation Chicken Salad. Additionally, you can serve the salad on crackers or in lettuce wraps for a lighter, gluten-free alternative.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Coronation Chicken Salad is an excellent dish for meal prepping. You can make the salad in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re preparing it as a filling for sandwiches, consider keeping the salad and bread separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help the bread stay fresh and avoid becoming soggy.

The salad also works well as a topping for salads or as a filling for wraps. This versatility ensures that you can enjoy the salad in different forms throughout the week without feeling like you’re eating the same meal every day.

Conclusion

Coronation Chicken Salad is a delicious and versatile dish with a rich history, offering a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and mildly spiced flavors. Whether enjoyed as part of a traditional afternoon tea, served as a light lunch, or packed for a picnic, it’s sure to impress with its comforting and flavorful profile. The ability to customize the salad with different fruits, herbs, and spices makes it adaptable to various tastes, and its easy preparation ensures that it’s a go-to meal for both casual and formal occasions. With its timeless appeal and satisfying flavors, Coronation Chicken Salad is a dish that will remain a favorite for years to come.