Coronation Chicken Is the Sweet Savory Salad You Need

Looking for a chicken salad that feels a little more special than your usual lunch prep? Coronation chicken delivers bold curry flavor, subtle sweetness, and satisfying crunch in every bite. Originally created for a royal celebration, this vibrant dish has stood the test of time and it’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

If you love meals that balance savory and sweet while still feeling nourishing, coronation chicken might become your new go-to.

What Is Coronation Chicken?

Coronation chicken is a classic British chicken salad made with poached chicken, curry-spiced creamy dressing, dried fruit, and nuts. The combination may sound unexpected, but the flavors work beautifully together.

You get:

• Tender shredded chicken

• A lightly spiced curry sauce

• Sweet bursts from dried apricots and mango chutney

• Crunch from toasted almonds

• Freshness from chopped cilantro

It’s versatile enough to serve over greens, tucked into whole-grain wraps, spooned onto baked sweet potatoes, or enjoyed on its own.

Why This Flavor Combination Works

The magic of coronation chicken lies in balance.

• Protein-rich chicken keeps you full and supports muscle health. A 3-ounce serving of chicken breast provides about 21 grams of protein.

• Curry powder adds anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric.

• Dried apricots and mango chutney offer natural sweetness plus small amounts of fiber and antioxidants.

• Almonds contribute heart-healthy fats. Research shows that regularly eating nuts may help support cardiovascular health.

When paired with a lighter mix of mayonnaise and sour cream, the result is creamy but not overly heavy.

How to Make Coronation Chicken

Ingredients

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ to 1¾ pounds)

• Kosher salt

• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• ½ medium white onion, diced

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon curry powder

• ¼ cup red wine

• 2 tablespoons mango chutney

• Juice of ½ lemon (about 1 tablespoon)

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup chopped dried apricots

• ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro leaves

Step 1: Poach the Chicken

Season the chicken generously with salt. Place in a single layer in a large pot with the peppercorns and 1 bay leaf. Cover with cool water by about 1 inch.

Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove and cool, then shred into large pieces.

Tip: Save the poaching liquid. It makes a light, flavorful base for rice, quinoa, or soup.

Step 2: Make the Curry Sauce

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add curry powder and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Pour in:

• Red wine

• ¼ cup water

• Mango chutney

• Lemon juice

• Remaining bay leaf

Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly reduced. Remove from heat, cool completely, and discard the bay leaf.

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream. Stir in the cooled curry mixture and ½ teaspoon salt.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, dried apricots, and toasted almonds. Pour the sauce over and gently fold to coat. Finish by mixing in chopped cilantro.

Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to develop.

Make It Lighter or Meal-Prep Friendly

Want to adjust your coronation chicken?

• Swap half the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt for extra protein.

• Serve over leafy greens for added fiber.

• Add diced celery for crunch with minimal calories.

• Use it as a high-protein filling for weekday lunches.

Protein-rich meals like coronation chicken can help support satiety and steady energy levels, which is especially helpful during busy weeks.

Storage Tips

Store coronation chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because it contains mayonnaise and dairy, keep it chilled and avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.

The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even better.

Coronation chicken proves that nutritious meals don’t have to be boring. With warming spices, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch, it’s a recipe that feels elevated yet approachable.

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