Easy Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken Recipe

If you’re a foodie or a home cook who loves exploring iconic recipes, the Coronation Chicken recipe is a must-try. This classic dish, with its creamy, fruity flavors and vibrant yellow hue, is a staple in British cuisine. And when Mary Berry, the beloved queen of home cooking, adds her touch to it? You can bet it’s going to be something truly special!

From its royal roots to the heart of your kitchen, this post will guide you through the history, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions for creating Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken. Plus, you’ll discover expert cooking tips, variations, and serving suggestions that will elevate this timeless dish.

What Is Coronation Chicken? A Royal History of This Iconic Dish

First introduced in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, Coronation Chicken was created by chefs Rosemary Hume and Constance Spry. It blended the creamy richness of mayonnaise with curry powder and a touch of sweetness from apricot purée, creating a dish that was easy to prepare in large quantities yet indulgent enough for a royal affair.

Since then, Coronation Chicken has become a widely loved classic, appearing in sandwiches, salads, and buffets across the UK. It’s a celebration of flavors that combines the best of savory and sweet – no wonder it’s survived the test of time.

The Mary Berry Twist on Coronation Chicken

When it comes to revamping traditional recipes, Mary Berry does it best. Her version of Coronation Chicken respects the original but adds a few signature twists for a modern and mouthwatering update. Known for her precise instructions and foolproof recipes, Mary combines the quintessential curry-mayonnaise base with subtle tweaks like fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, and a touch of mango chutney for depth. The result? A dish that feels nostalgic yet elevated—a perfect balance of hearty comfort food and gourmet flair.

Read This – Mary Berry Soda Bread Recipe

What You’ll Need for Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken Recipe

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to success. Here’s everything you’ll need for Mary Berry’s take on Coronation Chicken:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 – 3 tablespoons mango chutney
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon mild curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 – 4 tablespoons plain yogurt (for a lighter texture)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan (for cooking chicken, if not pre-cooked)
• Whisk or spoon for mixing
• Cutting board and knife for garnishes

With the perfect balance of ingredients, you’ll be all set to recreate the magic of Coronation Chicken.

How to Prepare Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken – A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Chicken

Whether you’re using leftover chicken or cooking fresh, ensure the meat is tender and shredded into bite-sized pieces. Poaching the chicken in lightly salted water with a bay leaf adds extra flavor if you’re cooking it from scratch.

2. Create the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mango chutney, lemon juice, curry powder, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth. Gradually fold in the yogurt for a lighter texture, adjusting the quantity to reach your desired creaminess.

3. Season to Perfection

Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the sauce has a balanced sweet, tangy, and subtly spiced profile.

4. Combine

Mix the sauce with the shredded chicken until every piece is coated evenly. Pro tip: Reserve a little sauce on the side to adjust consistency after chilling.

5. Chill and Garnish

For the flavors to meld beautifully, refrigerate the Coronation Chicken for at least 30 minutes. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright and vibrant finish.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Coronation Chicken over a bed of salad, in sandwiches, or as part of a larger buffet spread. The creamy richness pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or leafy greens.

Tips and Tricks to Perfect Coronation Chicken

• Adjust the Spice Level

If you love a stronger curry flavor, gradually add a pinch more curry powder or try a medium blend for added warmth.

• Make It Nutty

A sprinkle of toasted almond flakes adds an elegant crunch to the dish.

• Prep in Advance

Coronation Chicken tastes even better the next day, so it’s an ideal make-ahead dish for gatherings.

• Substitute for Mango Chutney

No mango chutney? Apricot jam with a splash of vinegar works as a handy substitute.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings You’ll Love

Coronation Chicken shines in various forms, making it a versatile addition to your table. Here are a few ideas to serve it:

• Classic Sandwiches

Spread onto crusty baguettes or soft white bread for an easy lunch.

• Salads

Serve over mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a fresh, gluten-free option.

• Stuffed Potatoes

Load Coronation Chicken into baked potatoes for a hearty meal.

• Picnic Favorite

Pack it in a Tupperware and pair with crackers or wraps for an outdoor feast.

Healthier Variations and Dietary Substitutes

Looking to make Coronation Chicken a bit lighter or adapt it for dietary needs? Try these substitutions:

• Low-Calorie Swap

Use low-fat yogurt and mayonnaise to cut down on calories while keeping the dish creamy.

• Vegan Version

Swap chicken for jackfruit or tofu and use dairy-free alternatives for the sauce.

• Sugar-Free

Replace mango chutney with pureed fresh mango for sweetness without added sugar.

Why You Should Try This Iconic Recipe Today

Coronation Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a piece of culinary history brought to life by the Mary Berry touch. Whether you’re hosting a party or jazzing up weekday lunches, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Plus, it’s flexible, approachable, and endlessly customizable, making it a great addition to your recipe arsenal. Why wait to try this royal favorite? Gather your ingredients, prepare your tools, and bring a taste of 1953 flair into your kitchen today.

Cooking it? We’d love to know how it turns out! Share your Coronation Chicken creations with us by using the hashtag #CookingWithMaryBerry.

For More Recipes – Join Now Newsletter