Nigella Lawson Coronation Chicken

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Introduction

Nigella Lawson’s Coronation Chicken is a brilliant dish that brings together the delicate flavors of cooked chicken, curry, and creamy mayonnaise in one delightful, exotic combination. Created in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, this dish blends classic British cuisine with a touch of Indian spices, offering both richness and warmth. It’s versatile enough to serve as a salad or a filling for sandwiches, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

What I love about Nigella’s version of Coronation Chicken is how effortlessly it comes together—simply combining tender, cooked chicken with a sauce that’s tangy, slightly spicy, and decadently creamy. The flavors meld perfectly, making it the ideal make-ahead dish, and it’s just as satisfying whether it’s served for a casual lunch or as part of a more formal spread.

It’s easy to customize the recipe, too. You can tweak the level of spice to your liking or add additional ingredients, such as sultanas or almonds, to bring an extra layer of texture and flavor. In addition to being delicious, this dish is one that can be made in advance, allowing for stress-free entertaining. Nigella’s Coronation Chicken is the kind of dish that never fails to impress, while still feeling simple and approachable.

Perfect for:

  • Picnic lunches
  • Summer gatherings
  • Casual family dinners or parties
  • A flavorful lunch that’s easy to prepare ahead

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to Make: This dish is easy and doesn’t take long to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
  • Flavorful and Unique: A wonderful mix of curry, apricots, and raisins creates an explosion of flavor, elevating the simple chicken salad.
  • Make Ahead: Nigella’s Coronation Chicken is ideal for making ahead of time, as the flavors only improve when allowed to rest in the refrigerator.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it as a standalone salad, as a sandwich filling, or paired with a side of rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Perfect for Every Occasion: Whether served at a summer BBQ or a holiday buffet, this dish adds a delightful touch to any gathering.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 25 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 2 hours
  • Servings: 4–6 servings
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 320–360 calories

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (optional, for a lighter version)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon mango chutney (or apricot jam)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro or parsley (optional)

For the Salad:

  • 1/4 cup raisins or sultanas
  • 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped into small pieces
  • 1 small apple, diced (optional, for crunch and freshness)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer a lean protein base that’s easy to cook and tender.
  • Curry Powder: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce, balancing the tangy sweetness of mango chutney.
  • Mango Chutney or Apricot Jam: These fruity components bring a touch of sweetness to complement the savory elements of the curry.
  • Raisins and Apricots: Dried fruits add a sweet, chewy texture that enhances the flavors of the dish.
  • Greek Yogurt: The optional yogurt lightens the richness of the sauce without sacrificing creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), curry powder, mango chutney (or apricot jam), and lemon juice. Stir everything until well-mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. You can also add fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. Combine the Chicken with the Sauce: Add the diced cooked chicken to the sauce, mixing until the chicken is evenly coated.
  2. Add the Fruit and Nuts: Stir in the raisins or sultanas, chopped apricots, and the diced apple (if using). These ingredients provide a lovely balance of sweetness and texture against the creamy sauce.
  3. Chill and Serve: Place the Coronation Chicken in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop. Serve chilled.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve the Coronation Chicken on a bed of greens with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for garnish.
    • Use it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, paired with crisp lettuce for crunch.
    • Enjoy it with rice, couscous, or as part of a salad platter alongside other cold dishes.

How to Serve

  • On a Salad: Place the Coronation Chicken atop a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a light, refreshing meal.
  • As Sandwiches: Use the Coronation Chicken as a sandwich filling with whole grain bread or in a soft pita.
  • Wraps: You can also wrap the Coronation Chicken in a tortilla, with lettuce and fresh veggies, for an easy-to-eat lunch.
  • With Rice: Serve with some plain or coconut rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Additional Tips

  • Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper for extra heat in your Coronation Chicken.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: For tender chicken, avoid overcooking. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the heat.
  • Substitute Chicken: If preferred, you can use rotisserie chicken to make the recipe quicker and easier. Just make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
  • Substitute Dried Fruits: If you don’t have raisins or apricots, you can use currants, cranberries, or any dried fruit you enjoy.
  • Use Light Mayonnaise: For a lighter version of the dish, opt for light mayonnaise or substitute half with Greek yogurt.

Recipe Variations

  1. Add Nuts: For extra crunch, add a handful of toasted almonds or cashews to the salad.
  2. Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version of Coronation Chicken.
  3. Creamier Sauce: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt until you reach your desired consistency.
  4. Fruit Options: Substitute the apricots with mango, pineapple, or other seasonal fruits for a different twist.
  5. Vegan Version: Make this recipe vegan by using vegan mayonnaise and replacing the chicken with grilled tempeh or jackfruit.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store any leftover Coronation Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the sauce, but it can be kept in the fridge for a few days.

Special Equipment

  • Skillet: A skillet for cooking the chicken breasts, allowing them to develop a golden-brown sear while staying tender.
  • Mixing Bowl: A bowl to combine the sauce ingredients and mix the Coronation Chicken.
  • Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slicing fruit.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, Coronation Chicken is ideal for making ahead, as the flavors meld and develop in the fridge. Make it a few hours or the night before serving for the best results.
  2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
    Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and will work wonderfully for this recipe.
  3. Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?
    Fresh fruit such as diced apple, grapes, or mango can be used instead of dried fruit for a lighter, refreshing twist.
  4. How spicy is the Coronation Chicken?
    The curry powder provides mild warmth, but it is not very spicy. You can always adjust the amount of curry powder or add extra chili for more heat.
  5. Can I substitute the Greek yogurt with something else?
    Yes, if you prefer, you can use regular yogurt, sour cream, or omit it entirely for a richer mayonnaise-based sauce.

Conclusion

Nigella Lawson’s Coronation Chicken is a rich, creamy dish that blends vibrant flavors in a way that feels luxurious yet simple. Originating from the celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, this dish has become a timeless classic. The tender chicken, combined with a tangy curry sauce, provides a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet tastes, perfect for a light meal or as part of a buffet spread.

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can add extra fruits like mango or grapes for a twist, or serve it over rice, as a salad, or in a sandwich. The creamy texture and zesty undertones are sure to leave a lasting impression, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Prepare your Coronation Chicken today, and let the savory aroma fill your kitchen. Once it’s ready, don’t forget to take a photo of your masterpiece and share it on Instagram—tag me, and we can both celebrate your delicious success! Happy cooking!

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