Coronation Chicken Recipe Mary Berry in 2024

Introduction to Coronation Chicken Recipe Mary Berry in 2024

Coronation Chicken is more than just a recipe; it is a piece of culinary history. Originally created by Constance Spry and Rosemary Hume, this dish was designed to be both delicious and economical, reflecting the post-war era’s values. The combination of cooked chicken in a creamy, curry-flavored sauce was a revelation at the time, and it quickly became a favorite across the UK.

Mary Berry, with her years of experience and love for traditional British cuisine, has perfected this recipe. Her version is slightly modernized but still pays homage to the original, maintaining the balance of flavors that make Coronation Chicken so special.

Ingredients for Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable dish. Mary Berry’s recipe is straightforward, using readily available ingredients that combine to create a rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken.

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 small onion, peeled and halved
• 1 carrot, peeled and halved
• 1 celery stick, cut into pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon mild curry powder
• 1 tablespoon tomato purée
• 1 tablespoon mango chutney
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 100 ml red wine
• 1 bay leaf
• 300 ml chicken stock
• 50 g dried apricots, chopped
• 150 ml mayonnaise
• 100 ml plain yogurt
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garnish:

• Fresh coriander leaves
• Sliced almonds or flaked almonds

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Coronation Chicken

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, let’s move on to the preparation of this iconic dish. Follow these steps to create a flavorful and creamy Coronation Chicken that will impress your guests.

Step 1: Poaching the Chicken

1. Start by poaching the chicken breasts. Place the chicken in a large saucepan, along with the bay leaf, onion, carrot, celery, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Cover the chicken with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Remove the chicken from the saucepan and allow it to cool. Once cooled, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Sauce

1. In a large frying pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
2. Stir in the curry powder and cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
3. Add the tomato purée, mango chutney, lemon juice, red wine, bay leaf, and chicken stock. Stir the mixture well.
4. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
5. Add the chopped dried apricots to the sauce and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 3: Combining Chicken and Sauce

1. Once the sauce has reduced and thickened, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and yogurt. Gradually fold in the cooled sauce until well mixed.
3. Add the poached chicken pieces to the bowl and gently stir until the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Garnishing and Serving

1. Transfer the Coronation Chicken to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a handful of sliced or flaked almonds for added texture and flavor.
3. Serve the dish chilled or at room temperature, accompanied by rice, salad, or as a filling for sandwiches or jacket potatoes.

Nutritional Information for Coronation Chicken

Understanding the nutritional content of Coronation Chicken can help you make informed dietary choices. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients found in a typical serving of Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken:

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving (approx.)
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	22 g
Fat	20 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Carbohydrates	10 g
Sugars	7 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	360 mg
Vitamin A	15% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C	10% of the Daily Value
Calcium	8% of the Daily Value
Iron	6% of the Daily Value

This nutritional profile makes Coronation Chicken a relatively balanced dish, offering a good source of protein while keeping the carbohydrate content moderate. The use of yogurt and mayonnaise in the sauce provides a creamy texture without excessive fat, making it a lighter option compared to other rich sauces.

Variations and Tips for Coronation Chicken

Coronation Chicken is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some variations and tips to help you customize the recipe:

1. Vegetarian Coronation Chicken:

• Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. The sauce’s rich flavors work well with these protein alternatives, providing a satisfying and meat-free dish.

2. Spicier Version:

• If you prefer a bit of heat, increase the amount of curry powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. This will give the dish a spicier kick, perfect for those who enjoy bolder flavors.

3. Healthier Options:

• For a healthier version, you can use light mayonnaise and Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise and plain yogurt. This will reduce the overall fat content without compromising the dish’s creamy texture.

4. Add Fresh Fruit:

• Some versions of Coronation Chicken include fresh fruits like grapes or apple slices. These add a refreshing sweetness and a bit of crunch to the dish, complementing the creamy sauce beautifully.

5. Serving Suggestions:

• Coronation Chicken can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion. It makes a great sandwich filling, can be served over a bed of rice or salad, or even used as a topping for jacket potatoes.

FAQs

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken recipe is a timeless classic that blends the rich history of British cuisine with modern flavors. This dish, with its tender chicken and creamy, curry-infused sauce, offers a perfect balance of taste and texture that can be enjoyed at any occasion, from casual picnics to elegant parties. The versatility of the recipe allows for various adaptations, making it easy to cater to different dietary preferences and spice levels. Whether served as a sandwich filling, over a salad, or alongside rice, Coronation Chicken remains a delicious and nutritious choice. By following this recipe, you can bring a touch of royal tradition to your table, delighting your family and friends with a dish that has stood the test of time.