James Martin Coronation Chicken

James Martin's Coronation Chicken is a modern take on a classic British dish that has its roots in the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, originally created by Constance Spry and Rosemary Hume. This dish is celebrated for its creamy, curry-flavored sauce that boasts a delightful blend of creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors, making it a versatile option for various dining occasions​​​​.

Ingredients for James Martin's Coronation Chicken

• Chicken breasts (4), skin removed
• Olive oil (2 tbsp) and the zest and juice of 2 lemons
• Seasonings: Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Butter, shallots (2, finely chopped), and red chilli (1 large, deseeded and finely chopped)
• Curry powder (1 tbsp), preferably Madras for its warmth
• Tomato purée (4 tbsp), dry white wine (200ml), and chicken stock (200ml)
• Apricot jam (2 tbsp), mayonnaise (300ml), and crème fraîche (150ml)
• Fresh ingredients: ripe mango (1, diced), spring onions, and fresh coriander (3 tbsp each), plus a dash of Tabasco sauce
• Garnish: Toasted flaked almonds (100g) and green salad leaves for serving

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by seasoning and steaming the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then cool and shred them.
2. Sauté shallots and chilli in butter, add curry powder, and then mix in the tomato purée, wine, and stock, reducing the mixture by half.
3. Combine the apricot jam, mayonnaise, crème fraîche, lemon juice, mango, spring onions, coriander, and Tabasco sauce, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
4. Fold the shredded chicken into this sauce, ensuring it's well coated.
5. Serve the Coronation Chicken on a bed of green salad leaves, garnished with toasted flaked almonds.

Storage and Reheating

Coronation Chicken is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days. It's not recommended to freeze this dish due to the mayonnaise and crème fraîche in the sauce, which can separate when frozen. For reheating or serving, it's suggested to gently bring it to a suitable temperature or enjoy it cold​​.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 500-600 kcal per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 10g

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use yogurt instead of crème fraîche? Yes, Greek yogurt is a suitable and healthier alternative, offering a tangier taste.
• How can I make this dish vegetarian? Replace chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian variant, ensuring they're well incorporated with the sauce.
• Can this dish be made ahead of time? Yes, preparing it ahead allows flavors to meld, enhancing its taste. Store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
• What are some serving suggestions? Coronation Chicken is versatile, serving well over rice, with naan, as a sandwich filling, atop salad greens, or as a jacket potato topping.

James Martin's Coronation Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a modern twist to a traditional recipe, making it perfect for any occasion from casual lunches to special gatherings. Its rich history and unique flavor profile make it a must-try recipe​​​​.