Mary Berry's Coronation Chicken: A Classic Recipe Reimagined

Mary Berry's Coronation Chicken is a timeless classic, perfect for picnics, parties, or a simple yet elegant weeknight meal. This iconic dish, traditionally served at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, has become a staple in British cuisine. This recipe offers a delicious twist on the original, incorporating Mary Berry's signature flair for simple yet sophisticated flavors.

Understanding the Origins of Coronation Chicken

Before diving into the recipe, let's briefly explore the history. While the exact origins are debated, the creamy, subtly spiced chicken salad we know today emerged around the Queen's coronation in 1953. Its vibrant color and exotic spices (for the time) made it a memorable and fitting celebratory dish. Mary Berry's version likely builds upon this legacy, adding her own touch of culinary expertise.

Mary Berry's Coronation Chicken Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe focuses on achieving the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs cooked chicken breasts, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
  • 2 tbsp apricot jam
  • 1 tbsp curry powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• For Serving: (Suggestions)

  • Crusty bread rolls
  • Salad greens
  • Rice

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.

2. Combine the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apricot jam, curry powder, lemon juice, ginger, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.

3. Mix Everything Together: Add the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables to the bowl with the sauce. Gently toss to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.

4. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for optimal taste. Serve chilled on crusty bread, with a side salad, or over rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips and Variations for Mary Berry's Coronation Chicken:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry powder and cayenne pepper to suit your taste. For a milder dish, reduce the amount of curry powder.
• Fruit Additions: Consider adding other fruits like mango chutney or raisins for added sweetness and texture.
• Nutty Twist: Toasted slivered almonds or chopped cashews add a lovely crunch.
• Make it Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare it a day ahead to allow the flavors to fully develop.

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