Mary Berry's Coronation Chicken
Today, we're exploring a classic British dish with royal roots: Mary Berry's Coronation Chicken. A blend of flavors that commemorates British history and tantalizes the taste buds, this recipe is a fusion of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and exotic spices.
Brief Description of the Recipe
Mary Berry's Coronation Chicken is a luscious combination of shredded cooked chicken mixed with a creamy sauce made of mayonnaise, mild curry powder, cinnamon, mango chutney, and sultanas. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, including as a sandwich filling or alongside salads and jacket potatoes.
Cultural or Historical Context
Coronation Chicken was created in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation banquet. It symbolizes the fusion of British culinary traditions with the exotic flavors of its colonial past, particularly the use of curry spices.
Ingredients List
- 500g shredded cooked chicken
- 6 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2-3 tsp mild curry powder (to taste)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp mango chutney
- 1-3 tbsp sultanas (to taste)
Preparation Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, curry powder, cinnamon, mango chutney, and sultanas. Mix well.
- Add the shredded cooked chicken to the sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat.
- If the mixture is too thick, add a little water to adjust the consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve as desired – with bread, salad, or jacket potatoes.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Can be frozen for 2-3 months. Ensure it’s cooled before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave's defrost setting. Consume immediately after thawing.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 463 kcal per serving
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Sugars: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Salt: 0.4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use other parts of the chicken?
A: Yes, both grilled or steamed skinless chicken breasts or thighs are suitable.
Q: Can I make substitutions in the recipe?
A: Absolutely. For instance, apricots can be substituted with mango chutney, and almonds can be replaced with sultanas.
Q: Can Coronation Chicken be served hot?
A: Traditionally, it is served cold, but you can experiment with serving it warm.
Mary Berry's Coronation Chicken is a dish steeped in history and rich in flavor. Perfect for various occasions, it's easy to prepare and offers a delightful taste of Britain's culinary heritage. Whether you're serving it in a sandwich, over a salad, or as part of a festive spread, this dish is sure to impress.