Delia Smith’s Coronation Chicken is a delightful British classic that blends tender chicken with a creamy, mildly spiced sauce, making it the perfect dish for celebrations or a simple lunch. Originally created to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, this dish has stood the test of time due to its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare and is typically served with salad or in sandwiches, making it both versatile and delicious.
What is Delia Smith Coronation Chicken?
Delia Smith’s Coronation Chicken is a flavorful dish made with cooked chicken, tossed in a creamy sauce that includes mayonnaise, curry powder, and apricot jam for sweetness. This retro recipe is beloved for its balance of spices, fruitiness, and creaminess. It’s often enjoyed as a filling for sandwiches or served alongside rice or salad, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Quick and simple: A fuss-free recipe that comes together in no time.
- Perfect for leftovers: Great for using up leftover cooked chicken.
- Balanced flavors: A unique combination of savory, sweet, and mildly spicy.
- Versatile dish: Serve it in sandwiches, as a salad, or alongside rice.
- Ideal for parties: A crowd-pleaser for picnics, buffets, or celebratory gatherings.
Ingredients Needed to Make Delia Smith Coronation Chicken
- Cooked chicken (500g / 1 lb): Shredded or diced, perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Mayonnaise (100ml / ½ cup): Creates the creamy base for the sauce.
- Greek yogurt (100ml / ½ cup): Adds lightness and tang to the dish.
- Curry powder (1 tbsp): Provides a mild warmth and spice.
- Apricot jam (2 tbsp): Adds sweetness and a fruity note to the sauce.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
- Mango chutney (1 tbsp): Adds an extra layer of sweetness and tang.
- Raisins or sultanas (2 tbsp): For a sweet bite in every spoonful.
- Fresh coriander (a handful): Chopped, for garnish and a fresh herbal note.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon for stirring
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions to Make Delia Smith Coronation Chicken
- Prepare the chicken: Shred or dice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.
- Mix the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, curry powder, apricot jam, mango chutney, and lemon juice. Stir well until the sauce is smooth and fully combined.
- Add the raisins: Stir in the raisins or sultanas, allowing them to soak up the sauce’s flavors.
- Toss the chicken: Add the chicken to the sauce and mix until all the pieces are evenly coated.
- Season and garnish: Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh coriander for an added burst of flavor and color.
- Serve: Enjoy the Coronation Chicken cold, served on a bed of salad, in sandwiches, or alongside rice.
What Goes Well With Delia Smith Coronation Chicken
- Rice: Serve with steamed basmati rice for a hearty meal.
- Salad: Pair with a green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Sandwiches: Use as a filling for sandwiches or wraps for an easy lunch.
- Couscous: A delicious pairing that absorbs the sauce and enhances the flavors.
- Pita bread: Serve with warm pita or flatbread for scooping up the creamy mixture.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Delia Smith Coronation Chicken
- Use leftover chicken: This dish is a great way to use up roast chicken from a previous meal.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of curry powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Chill before serving: Let the Coronation Chicken sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Don’t over-sweeten: Be careful not to add too much apricot jam or chutney, as it may overpower the savory flavors.
- Add texture: For a bit of crunch, mix in toasted almonds or chopped celery.
Easy Variations of Delia Smith Coronation Chicken
- Vegan version: Replace the chicken with tofu or jackfruit and use plant-based mayonnaise and yogurt.
- Spicier version: Add a dash of hot sauce or more curry powder for an extra kick.
- Add fresh fruit: Toss in diced apples or grapes for a fresh, fruity contrast.
- Use different herbs: Swap coriander for parsley or mint for a different herbaceous flavor.
- Creamier option: Add a little cream or crème fraîche for an even richer sauce.
Best Practices to Store Delia Smith Coronation Chicken
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze: Coronation Chicken doesn’t freeze well due to the yogurt and mayonnaise-based sauce, which may separate when thawed.
- Make in advance: This dish can be made a day ahead, as the flavors improve when left to marinate.
Best Practices to Reheat Delia Smith Coronation Chicken
- Serve cold: Coronation Chicken is traditionally served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.
- Refresh with lemon juice: If stored for a couple of days, freshen up the flavors by adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
How Can I Make Delia Smith Coronation Chicken Healthier?
- Use light mayonnaise: Replace regular mayonnaise with a lighter version to reduce calories.
- Skip the jam: For a less sweet version, reduce or omit the apricot jam and add more lemon juice.
- Add more vegetables: Toss in chopped celery, cucumber, or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
- Reduce the yogurt: You can use less yogurt to make the dish lighter while maintaining its creaminess.
- Opt for grilled chicken: Instead of using leftover roast chicken, use grilled chicken breast for a leaner option.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
Can I make Coronation Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, Coronation Chicken can be made a day ahead. In fact, letting it chill in the fridge allows the flavors to develop even more. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving.
What is the best chicken to use for Coronation Chicken?
Leftover roast or poached chicken works best for Coronation Chicken. You can also use grilled chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience. Simply shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
How long does Coronation Chicken last in the fridge?
Coronation Chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Coronation Chicken?
It is not recommended to freeze Coronation Chicken due to the mayonnaise and yogurt in the sauce. Freezing may cause the sauce to separate, resulting in an undesirable texture when thawed.
Final Words
Delia Smith’s Coronation Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to special gatherings. With its creamy sauce, subtle spices, and sweet undertones, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors and textures in this iconic dish!
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Delia Smith Coronation Chicken
- Prep Time: 15
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: British
Description
Delia Smith’s Coronation Chicken is a flavorful dish made with cooked chicken, tossed in a creamy sauce that includes mayonnaise, curry powder, and apricot jam for sweetness. This retro recipe is beloved for its balance of spices, fruitiness, and creaminess. It’s often enjoyed as a filling for sandwiches or served alongside rice or salad, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken (500g / 1 lb): Shredded or diced, perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Mayonnaise (100ml / ½ cup): Creates the creamy base for the sauce.
- Greek yogurt (100ml / ½ cup): Adds lightness and tang to the dish.
- Curry powder (1 tbsp): Provides a mild warmth and spice.
- Apricot jam (2 tbsp): Adds sweetness and a fruity note to the sauce.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
- Mango chutney (1 tbsp): Adds an extra layer of sweetness and tang.
- Raisins or sultanas (2 tbsp): For a sweet bite in every spoonful.
- Fresh coriander (a handful): Chopped, for garnish and a fresh herbal note.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Shred or dice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.
- Mix the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, curry powder, apricot jam, mango chutney, and lemon juice. Stir well until the sauce is smooth and fully combined.
- Add the raisins: Stir in the raisins or sultanas, allowing them to soak up the sauce’s flavors.
- Toss the chicken: Add the chicken to the sauce and mix until all the pieces are evenly coated.
- Season and garnish: Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh coriander for an added burst of flavor and color.
- Serve: Enjoy the Coronation Chicken cold, served on a bed of salad, in sandwiches, or alongside rice.
