Recipe for Coronation Chicken: Inspired by Mary Berry

Category: Food & Drink

Introduction Coronation Chicken is a classic British dish that was created to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. This regal recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and aromatic spices, resulting in a dish fit for royalty. Inspired by Mary Berry, a renowned British chef and television personality, this recipe captures the essence of Coronation Chicken with a few modern twists. In this article, we will explore the history of Coronation Chicken, share Mary Berry's inspired recipe, and guide you through the steps to create this delectable dish in your own kitchen. The History of Coronation Chicken Coronation Chicken was originally created by Rosemary Hume, a chef at Le Cordon Bleu cookery school, and Constance Spry, a prominent florist and cookery writer. The dish was designed to be served as part of the banquet for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation lunch, combining the flavors of the Commonwealth to celebrate the occasion. The recipe quickly gained popularity and became a staple of British cuisine. Its unique combination of tender chicken, rich and creamy sauce, and exotic spices captivated the palates of people across the nation. Today, Coronation Chicken remains a beloved dish, often served at picnics, parties, and traditional British events. Mary Berry's Inspired Recipe Ingredients: • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil • 1 onion, finely chopped • 2 cloves of garlic, minced • 1 tablespoon curry powder • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 1 teaspoon paprika • 1 cup mayonnaise • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt • 1/4 cup mango chutney • 2 tablespoons lemon juice • Salt and pepper to taste • Fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves, for garnish Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and drizzle with vegetable oil. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. 2. In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent. 3. In a small bowl, combine the curry powder, ground turmeric, ground cumin, and paprika. Add the spice mixture to the pan with the onion and garlic. Stir well to coat the onions and allow the spices to release their aroma. 4. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. 5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, mango chutney, and lemon juice. Add the cooled onion and spice mixture. Stir until well combined. 6. Add the shredded chicken to the sauce mixture. Mix gently to coat the chicken with the flavorful sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste 7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. 8. Before serving, garnish the Coronation Chicken with fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves for a pop of color and added freshness. 9. Serve the Coronation Chicken on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves or as a sandwich filling. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a topping for baked potatoes. 10. Tips and Variations 11. Feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of curry powder or omit the ground cumin. 12. For a touch of sweetness, add chopped dried apricots or raisins to the dish. 13. If you're vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu for a delightful twist on this classic recipe. 14. Experiment with different types of bread or wraps to create delicious Coronation Chicken sandwiches or wraps. 15. Make a refreshing salad by combining the Coronation Chicken with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices.