Discover the delightful Mary Berry Coronation Chicken Recipe. This renowned dish is a true culinary gem that combines succulent chicken with a rich and creamy sauce. Mary Berry’s version of this classic recipe is sure to impress your taste buds with its unique blend of flavors.
The tender chicken is marinated in a tantalizing mixture of aromatic spices, including curry powder, cumin, and paprika, which infuse it with a burst of exotic taste. The sauce, made with a velvety combination of mayonnaise, yogurt, and mango chutney, adds a luscious sweetness that perfectly balances the spices. This mouthwatering dish is not to be missed!
Enter Mary Berry, a name synonymous with British home cooking, who presents her own twist on this classic dish. Known for her straightforward and reliable recipes, Berry’s rendition of Coronation Chicken marries the traditional elements with a touch of elegance and ease.
Her recipe involves the sublime combination of tender chicken, mayonnaise, curry powder, and a hint of sweetness from mango chutney, making it a perfect choice for those looking to recreate a bit of culinary history at home.
Why You’ll Be Glad You Tried This Coronation Chicken Recipe
Mary Berry Coronation Chicken stands out as a reflection of classic British cuisine with a modern twist. This recipe is both delightful and straightforward, ensuring that even novice cooks can achieve excellent results. The Coronation Chicken embodies a harmonious blend of flavours that promise to elevate your dining experience.
Firstly, the ease of preparation is a significant advantage. Following this recipe does not require professional skills, making it accessible for a home cook. You’ll find that the ingredients are readily obtainable, and the steps are clearly laid out, courtesy of Mary Berry’s expert guidance.
Mary Berry has a reputation for reliable and delicious recipes. Her version of Coronation Chicken includes a balance of creamy and tangy notes, ensuring a culinary delight that’s bound to impress. The recipe is flexible, too – it can serve as a splendid main course or a tasty sandwich filler.
What you can expect:
- Taste: A delightful balance of herbaceous and spicy undertones.
- Texture: Creamy with a pleasant contrast provided by the crunch of the vegetables.
- Appearance: A vibrant dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
This recipe also offers room for personalization. Whether you prefer a milder version or a more robust flavour profile, Mary Berry Coronation Chicken can be tweaked to suit your taste buds. The versatility of this dish makes it suitable for various occasions, from a casual lunch to a festive celebration.
By following this recipe, you’re not just making a meal; you’re taking part in a storied tradition that dates back to royal banquets. Hence, when you try your hand at this celebrated recipe, you’re not only treating yourself to a savory dish but also indulging in a slice of culinary history.
What Is Mary Berry Coronation Chicken Recipe?
Mary Berry Coronation Chicken embodies a delicious blend of cooked chicken in a rich, creamy sauce infused with curry flavours and hints of sweetness often from mango chutney or apricot jam. Paying homage to Queen Elizabeth II, the creation was initially crafted for Her Majesty’s coronation banquet, setting a culinary milestone in Britain.
The dish, a twist on the traditional Jubilee Chicken, carries a legacy woven into British history. Esteemed food writer and former judge on ‘The Great British Bake Off’, Mary Berry refined the recipe, ensuring it resonates with contemporary tastes whilst maintaining its rich historical essence. Historically, the recipe has undergone various iterations but is fondly known as a celebratory dish, representing a fusion of British culture with global flavours.
Mary Berry‘s version of Coronation Chicken involves a balanced mix of cooked shredded chicken and a sublime sauce made from mayonnaise, curry spices, and a touch of sweetness. This juxtaposition of components results in a taste that is both comforting and elegant. The dish stands as a testament to Britain’s innovation in gastronomy, persisting as a delightful reminder of a monumental event in British history.
Mary Berry Coronation Chicken Ingredients
Primary Components:
- Chicken breasts: They provide the key protein and base for the dish.
- Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and serves as a foundation for the sauce.
Flavour Enhancers:
- Mild curry powder and Madras curry powder: These spice blends infuse the dish with warmth and depth.
- Mango chutney: Introduces a sweet and tangy profile.
- Lemon juice and lemon zest: They contribute a zestful tanginess.
- Cinnamon or cinnamon stick: Brings a subtle, warm sweetness.
- Sultanas and dried apricots: These dried fruits offer hints of natural sugar and texture.
Additional Ingredients:
- Sugar: Balances the spices with its sweetness.
- Tomato purée: Adds richness and a slight tang.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger imparts a vibrant, spicy kick.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste.
- Butter: Used for sautéing and adds a smooth finish.
- Coriander leaves: Provides fresh, citrusy notes.
Optional Toppings:
- Flaked almonds: They introduce a nutty crunch.
- Greek yoghurt: Can be used for a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, for creaminess.
- Stock: Enhances the overall flavour of the sauce.
Herbal garnishes such as coriander leaves should be applied just before serving to maintain their brightness. This list creates a balanced combination of spices, sweetness, acidity, and creamy textures for a traditional taste of Coronation Chicken, perfected by culinary expert Mary Berry.
How to Make Mary Berry Coronation Chicken
The Coronation Chicken is a delightful chicken salad with royal origins, commonly associated with street parties and celebrations. This dish, known as Poulet Reine Elizabeth, boasts a harmonious mixture of spices, fruit, and tender chicken.
For the recipe, preheat the oven to 190°C. Begin by rubbing the chicken breasts with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Place them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until thoroughly cooked. The chicken should be allowed to cool before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
The seasoning combines mayonnaise, curry powder, a pinch of cinnamon, and mango chutney for a hint of sweetness. For a healthier option with fewer calories and fat, you may use crème fraîche as an alternative to mayonnaise. Incorporate the shredded chicken into this mixture, ensuring it is well-coated with the Coronation sauce.
Fresh coriander serves as a beautiful garnish, adding a burst of colour and freshness to the dish. When preparing Coronation Chicken Salad, the dish can be served on a bed of crisp salad leaves to create a complete meal.
For those preparing a larger feast, the chicken stock can be enhanced with aromatic herbs and spices, simmered alongside the chicken for deeper flavour.
The versatility of this recipe allows it to be adapted for various occasions, from a simple lunch to grand celebrations.
Recipe Tips for Mary Berry Coronation Chicken
In creating Mary Berry Coronation Chicken, a few tips can enhance the flavours and textures. When adding sugar to the mixture, balance is key. One should aim for a slight sweetness without overpowering the other spices; hence, the use of mango chutney is brilliant, as it often contains sugar and adds a fruity hint.
If one decides to serve the chicken as a sandwich filler, the choice of bread is crucial. Opt for a sturdy type, such as a ciabatta, to hold the chicken mixture effectively without becoming soggy. Alternatively, for a lighter option, serving the Coronation Chicken on toast might be more preferable, giving a satisfying crunch.
The zest and juice of lemons are vital for adding a citrusy freshness to the dish, cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise. One must ensure the lemons are unwaxed before zesting to avoid any bitter aftertaste. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferable over bottled for the best flavour.
When cooking the chicken, using butter for a richer taste is recommended. However, if a lighter version is desired, one could use a splash of olive oil instead. A knob of butter can also be added when sautéing the chopped shallots, providing a nice base for developing the curry flavours.
To ensure richness and depth, one mustn’t skip on allowing the flavours to meld together. After preparing the Coronation sauce, letting it sit for a while before serving helps the spices and seasonings to fully infuse the chicken.
What To Serve With Coronation Chicken?
Deciding on the perfect accompaniments for Coronation Chicken can enhance the overall dining experience. This versatile dish pairs excellently with various sides that complement its rich and creamy texture.
For those favouring a more traditional approach, sandwiches or wraps present a casual yet satisfying option. Bread choices like nutty wholemeal or buttery brioche add a delightful contrast to the Coronation Chicken, with the bread acting as a canvas for the flavours.
Alternatively, a light and refreshing green salad serves as a balanced side. The crispness of fresh leaves and the tanginess of a simple vinaigrette cut through the creaminess, bringing a welcome zest to your palate.
Rice, be it basmati or pilaf, offers a filling and neutral base that allows the Coronation Chicken to shine. The grains absorb the curry-infused sauce, ensuring that no flavour is lost.
Moreover, a jacket potato proves to be a hearty companion to Coronation Chicken. The fluffy interior of the potato soaks up the sauce effectively, whilst the skin provides a satisfying texture.
Lastly, for gatherings, finger sandwiches filled with Coronation Chicken are ideal. They’re easy to manage and don’t compromise on taste, making them a hit for buffet tables and picnics alike.
Each option complements Coronation Chicken in its own way, ensuring a delightful meal whether one opts for simplicity with bread or a more elaborate side like a jacket potato.
How To Store Leftovers Coronation Chicken?
Storing leftover Coronation Chicken correctly means it stays fresh and delicious for later enjoyment. Place the mixture in an airtight container to maintain optimal freshness. Before sealing, a squeeze of lemon juice can be added to ensure the chicken retains its flavour. This acidic addition acts as a natural preservative, enhancing the shelf-life of the Coronation Chicken.
Once in the container, refrigerate immediately. The fridge should be at a consistent temperature, ideally below 5°C, to prevent bacterial growth. Use the leftovers within two days for the best quality and safety. To check if the Coronation Chicken is still good to eat, look for any change in smell, texture, or colour.
When reheating, ensure that the chicken is hot throughout before serving. However, Coronation Chicken is traditionally served cold, which makes it a convenient option for a quick meal directly from the fridge. If the recipe included fresh ingredients like herbs or fruits, consume them faster, as they might wilt or degrade, impacting the overall taste and texture of the dish.
Label the container with the date of storage to track how long it’s been in the fridge. Keeping track of this helps to avoid food waste and ensures that one only consumes fresh food.
To summarise, follow these steps to store Coronation Chicken:
- Transfer to an airtight container
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice as a preservative
- Keep chilled below 5°C
- Consume within two days
- Label with the storage date
By following these guidelines, one ensures that leftover Coronation Chicken remains as enjoyable as when it was freshly made.
How To Reheat Leftovers Coronation Chicken?
When reheating Coronation Chicken, it is important to preserve its moistness and flavour. Leftovers should be handled carefully to ensure a delightful second serving.
For those with access to an oven, preheat it to 150°C (300°F). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it lightly with aluminium foil to prevent drying out. The foil also helps to distribute the heat more evenly. Heat for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Remember, ovens may vary, so one should check the chicken periodically.
If using a stove, put a small amount of water or broth in a pan to just cover the base. Warm it over medium heat and add the chicken, stirring occasionally until it reaches the appropriate temperature. This method adds moisture and keeps the chicken tender.
Utilise a food thermometer to ensure that the Coronation Chicken is reheated to a safe temperature. Consuming reheated chicken that has not reached the proper temperature can pose a risk to health.
During the reheating process, the goal is to maintain the quality without altering the flavours infused into the Coronation Chicken. Whether using an oven or stove, both approaches can effectively warm up your leftovers while keeping the chicken succulent and ready to be enjoyed once again.
Mary Berry Coronation Chicken Nutrition Facts
Mary Berry Coronation Chicken is a savoury dish that provides a balanced mix of nutrients. It typically contains a variety of ingredients that add not just flavour but also nutritional value.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving
- Protein: 25-30 grams per serving
- Fat: 20-25 grams per serving
- Sugars: 10-15 grams per serving
- Carbohydrates: Mostly under 20 grams per serving (may vary depending on additional ingredients)
- Fiber: Minimal amounts
- Micronutrients: Trace amounts from spices and condiments
Mary Berry Coronation Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Saucepan
- stirring utensil
- Food thermometer (optional)
- Airtight container for storing leftovers
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- 200 g mayonnaise
- 2 tsp mild curry powder
- 1 tsp Madras curry powder
- 2 tbsp mango chutney
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Pinch of cinnamon
- 50 g sultanas
- 50 g dried apricots chopped
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp tomato purée
- 1- inch piece of ginger grated
- 25 g butter
- Fresh coriander leaves chopped, for garnish
- Optional toppings: flaked almonds Greek yogurt, stock
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Allow to cool, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mild curry powder, Madras curry powder, mango chutney, lemon zest, cinnamon, sultanas, dried apricots, sugar, tomato purée, and grated ginger.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté until soft.
- Add the shredded chicken to the saucepan with the butter and stir to coat.
- Pour the curry sauce mixture over the chicken and stir until well combined.
- Allow the flavors to meld together for a few minutes.
- Serve the Coronation Chicken garnished with fresh coriander leaves.
- Optional: Top with flaked almonds and a dollop of Greek yogurt, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 25 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Sugars: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Micronutrients: Varies based on ingredients used
Coronation chicken is a classic, and Mary Berry’s interpretation adds a delightful twist. This section answers common queries about crafting this dish with finesse and flavour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the traditional ingredients for Coronation chicken sauce?
Traditionally, Coronation chicken sauce includes curry powder, cinnamon, mango chutney, and mayonnaise, which create a creamy yet tangy flavour profile. Sultanas or raisins may be added to impart a mild, fruity sweetness.
How does one prepare Coronation chicken in true Mary Berry style?
To prepare Coronation chicken, one combines the mayonnaise, curry powder, cinnamon, mango chutney, and sultanas in a large bowl. The mixture is then blended until smooth before adding the shredded, cooked chicken pieces.
What distinguishes the flavour of Mary Berry Coronation chicken from other chefs’ interpretations?
The distinctive flavour of Mary Berry Coronation chicken comes from the balance of spices and the addition of mango chutney, which offers a unique sweetness and spiciness complemented by the sultanas.
Could you suggest a recipe for Coronation chicken suitable for serving at a British-style party?
For a British-style party, serve Coronation chicken as a sandwich filling, atop a salad, or as a jacket potato topping. It should be creamy, with a balance of curry and fruitiness from the chutney and raisins.
Is there a recommended way to adjust the seasoning of Coronation chicken to suit different palates?
Adjust the curry powder in the Coronation chicken according to taste, starting with a mild curry powder and gradually adding more to increase the heat and flavour as desired.
What are the key steps to ensure a moist and flavourful chicken when replicating Mary Berry Coronation chicken?
For a moist and flavourful base, use properly cooked, shredded chicken breasts. Ensure the chicken is not overcooked to avoid dryness and allow it to absorb the flavours of the Coronation sauce.
