Mary Berry Coronation Chicken Recipe

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This Mary Berry Coronation Chicken recipe is a classic British dish known for its creamy texture, gentle spice, and sweet fruity flavour. Tender cooked chicken is coated in a rich curry mayonnaise with apricots and a hint of lemon for freshness. It is wonderfully simple to prepare and ideal for sandwiches, salads, or buffet spreads. The recipe is beginner friendly and takes about 35 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

For the Coronation Chicken

500g cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
150g mayonnaise
2 tbsp Greek yogurt
1 tsp mild curry powder
1 tbsp mango chutney
50g dried apricots, finely chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

2 tbsp toasted flaked almonds
Extra chopped coriander

How to Make Mary Berry Coronation Chicken Recipe

Prepare the chicken: If using freshly cooked chicken, allow it to cool slightly before shredding or cutting into bite sized pieces. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl.
Mix the dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, curry powder, mango chutney, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Add the fruit and herbs: Stir the chopped dried apricots and fresh coriander into the dressing. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Combine with the chicken: Pour the dressing over the prepared chicken and mix gently until every piece is evenly coated.
Chill for best flavour: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This allows the flavours to develop and gives the mixture a creamy texture.
Finish and serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with toasted flaked almonds and extra coriander if desired.

Tips for the Best Coronation Chicken

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Use freshly cooked or good quality cooked chicken breast and avoid overmixing. The creamy dressing will help keep the meat tender.

Can I make the flavour milder?

Simply reduce the curry powder slightly and add a little more yogurt for a gentler taste.

How can I add more texture?

Toasted almonds or a handful of golden raisins add a pleasant crunch and extra sweetness.

Why should the mixture be chilled before serving?

Chilling helps the dressing thicken slightly and allows the curry and fruit flavours to blend beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Spoon into soft sandwich bread or brioche rolls
Serve over crisp green salad leaves
Use as a filling for jacket potatoes
Add to wraps with lettuce and cucumber
Include on a picnic or buffet table

Storage

Room Temperature

This dish contains mayonnaise, so it should not be left out for more than 1 hour.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended because the mayonnaise dressing may separate when thawed.

Nutrition

Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Protein: 28 g
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Sodium: 420 mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients used.

FAQs

What is coronation chicken?

Coronation chicken is a classic British dish made from cooked chicken mixed with a creamy curry flavoured mayonnaise dressing, often including fruit such as apricots or raisins.

Can I use leftover roast chicken?

Yes, leftover roast chicken works perfectly for this recipe and adds extra flavour to the dish.

Can I make coronation chicken in advance?

Yes, it can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavour improves as it rests.

What bread is best for coronation chicken sandwiches?

Soft white bread, brioche rolls, or lightly toasted sourdough all work well and complement the creamy filling.