Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe

Coronation Chicken Salad is a classic British dish with a royal twist. It’s creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re planning a picnic, lunchbox meal, or a party spread, this salad fits right in. Packed with tender chicken, a spiced mayo dressing, and a hint of sweetness—it’s more than just a salad. Keep reading to discover its royal origins, simple ingredients, and how to make it perfectly at home.

Introduction to Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe

Coronation Chicken Salad is more than just a popular sandwich filler or summer dish—it’s a recipe with a unique heritage. Created for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953, this dish was designed to be both elegant and practical. It combined cold cooked chicken with a creamy, mildly spiced dressing, offering a modern post-war twist on traditional British flavors.

This salad brings together sweet, savory, and spiced notes—often featuring ingredients like curry powder, mango chutney, and mayonnaise. The result is a vibrant and versatile dish that has stood the test of time.

Over the years, Coronation Chicken has become a staple in British households, loved for its flavor and ease of preparation. Whether you serve it as a salad, sandwich filling, or party canapé, its rich background and bold flavor make it a conversation starter.

The History Behind Coronation Chicken

Coronation Chicken was created in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The recipe was developed by Constance Spry, a renowned florist and food writer, and Rosemary Hume, the founder of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu cooking school in London. They were asked to design a dish suitable for a formal banquet but practical enough to be served cold to hundreds of guests.

The goal was to reflect the mood of post-war Britain—economical, yet optimistic. Chicken was a luxury at the time, and the recipe cleverly combined it with accessible ingredients like curry powder, mayonnaise, and dried fruit. The resulting dish was called Poulet Reine Elizabeth, though it quickly became known as Coronation Chicken.

Its flavor profile was influenced by the British Empire’s global reach, especially India. The mild curry and fruit-based sauce paid homage to the era’s growing interest in international cuisine. Over time, Coronation Chicken evolved into a household favorite—commonly found in sandwiches, jacket potatoes, and salads across the UK.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Coronation Chicken Salad isn’t just a dish with a story—it’s a versatile, flavorful recipe that suits nearly any occasion. Here’s why it’s worth making at home:

Bold, Balanced Flavors

This recipe delivers a perfect mix of sweet, savory, and mildly spiced notes. The creaminess of the mayonnaise, the warmth of curry powder, and the tang of chutney or lemon juice create a unique flavor that’s rich but not overwhelming.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

With a handful of pantry staples and some cooked chicken, you can whip this up in minutes. There’s no complex cooking involved, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute meals.

Great Use for Leftover Chicken

Have leftover roast or poached chicken? This is one of the tastiest ways to transform it into something new and exciting.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Coronation Chicken Salad stores well in the fridge, making it a reliable option for make-ahead lunches, picnics, or snacks throughout the week.

Versatile Serving Options

Serve it in a sandwich, on top of a leafy salad, in a wrap, or spooned onto crackers for canapés. It’s just as good at a casual lunch as it is at a fancy afternoon tea.

Customizable to Your Taste

Whether you like it sweeter, tangier, or with more spice, this recipe is easy to adapt. Add fresh herbs, switch up the dried fruit, or lighten it with Greek yogurt—there’s room to make it your own.

Ingredients Needed

To make a classic Coronation Chicken Salad, you’ll need two main components: the chicken salad base and the creamy, spiced dressing. Below is a breakdown of everything you need, with notes on optional additions and substitutions.

For the Chicken Salad

Cooked Chicken (2–3 cups, shredded or chopped)

Use leftover roast chicken, poached chicken breasts, or even rotisserie chicken. Both white and dark meat work well.

Dried Apricots or Raisins (2–3 tablespoons, chopped)

Adds sweetness and texture. You can also use sultanas, golden raisins, or chopped dates.

Chopped Celery (optional, about ½ cup)

For crunch and freshness. Skip if you prefer a softer texture.

Sliced Almonds or Cashews (optional)

Adds a nutty crunch. Toasted nuts work best.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise (½ cup)

The creamy base of the dressing. Use full-fat for best flavor, or substitute with light mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Greek Yogurt or Crème Fraîche (2–3 tablespoons)

Helps balance the richness of the mayo and adds tang.

Mild Curry Powder (1–2 teaspoons)

The star ingredient that gives Coronation Chicken its signature flavor. Adjust to taste.

Mango Chutney (1 tablespoon)

Adds sweetness and depth. You can also use apricot jam in a pinch.

Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon)

Brightens the dressing and balances the creaminess.

Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

Essential for seasoning.

Optional Add-Ins

Fresh Herbs (like coriander, parsley, or chives)

Adds freshness and color.

Red Onion or Spring Onion (finely chopped)

For a bit of sharpness and texture.

Chili Flakes or Hot Sauce

If you prefer a little heat.

How to Make Coronation Chicken Salad

Making Coronation Chicken Salad is simple and quick. Once your ingredients are ready, it’s just a matter of mixing and chilling. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make it perfectly every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Use cooked and cooled chicken, either shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces. Leftover roast chicken works great. If starting from raw, poach or roast boneless chicken breasts until fully cooked, then cool before using.

• Tip: Let the chicken cool completely before mixing with the dressing to avoid thinning it out.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2–3 tablespoons Greek yogurt or crème fraîche
• 1–2 teaspoons mild curry powder
• 1 tablespoon mango chutney
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk together until smooth and well-blended. Taste and adjust seasoning, curry powder, or chutney as needed.

• Tip: For a lighter version, use all Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and light mayo.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Extras

Add the chopped chicken to the bowl with the dressing, then fold it together gently until the chicken is well coated.

Next, stir in:

• 2–3 tablespoons chopped dried apricots or raisins
• Optional: celery, nuts, spring onions, or fresh herbs for extra texture and flavor

Tip: Don’t overmix—fold gently to keep the texture nice and chunky.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and the dressing to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

After chilling, give the salad a final taste. You might want to add a bit more lemon juice, salt, or a dash of curry powder for extra zing.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Coronation Chicken Salad is a flexible recipe—easy to adapt to your taste, diet, or ingredients you have on hand. These tips and variations will help you customize the dish while ensuring great flavor and texture every time.

Tips for Best Results

Use Cold, Cooked Chicken

Warm chicken can thin the dressing and change the texture. Make sure it’s completely cooled before mixing.

Mix the Dressing First

Always prepare the dressing separately before adding the chicken. This ensures an even coating and better balance of flavors.

Chill Before Serving

Letting the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors and improves texture.

Adjust Seasoning Gradually

Start with less curry powder or chutney and add more to taste. It’s easier to build flavor than to fix an overpowering dressing.

Cut Ingredients Evenly

Whether it’s chicken, dried fruit, or nuts—uniformly chopped pieces give a better texture and presentation.

Variations to Try

Lightened-Up Version

Replace some or all of the mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-fat version. Use light mayonnaise for fewer calories.

Fruity Twist

Swap raisins or apricots for chopped apples, grapes, or pomegranate seeds for a juicy bite. Add a little orange zest for citrusy depth.

Nut-Free Option

Simply leave out the nuts or use sunflower seeds for crunch without allergens.

Herb-Forward Version

Add finely chopped coriander, parsley, or mint for a fresh and colorful finish.

Extra Spice

Prefer a kick? Stir in chili flakes, harissa, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Vegan Option

Use plant-based chicken and vegan mayo or yogurt to make it entirely dairy- and meat-free.

Add Crunch

Toss in chopped celery, spring onions, or even a handful of shredded cabbage for extra texture.

Serving Suggestions

One of the best things about Coronation Chicken Salad is how versatile it is. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, planning a picnic, or hosting a party, this dish fits in effortlessly. Here are some of the most popular and creative ways to serve it:

As a Sandwich Filling

This is the classic way to enjoy Coronation Chicken. Serve it between slices of:

• Soft white or wholemeal bread
• Crusty baguette or ciabatta
• Brioche buns for a richer taste
• Gluten-free bread, if needed

Add crisp lettuce, cucumber slices, or rocket leaves for freshness and crunch.

• Tip: Butter the bread lightly to prevent sogginess.

In Mini Tea Sandwiches

Perfect for afternoon tea or parties, spread the chicken salad on thinly sliced bread and cut into:

• Triangles
• Fingers
• Small rounds using a cookie cutter

Remove the crusts for a traditional look.

On a Bed of Greens

Serve it as a light, low-carb lunch:

• Spoon it onto a plate of mixed leafy greens
• Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion
• Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice or extra chutney for added flavor

Optional: Add grains like quinoa or couscous for a heartier salad.

In Wraps or Pita Pockets

Wrap the salad in:

• Tortilla wraps
• Whole wheat flatbreads
• Stuffed into warm pita halves

Add shredded lettuce or slaw for extra crunch.

As a Jacket Potato Topping

Scoop a generous portion over a warm baked potato. It’s creamy, filling, and packed with flavor—ideal for a cozy lunch or dinner.

In Lettuce Cups

For a lighter, low-carb option, serve spoonfuls in crisp lettuce leaves like:

• Little Gem
• Romaine
• Butter lettuce

Perfect as finger food or party appetizers.

On Crackers or Crostini

Use it as a topping for:

• Crackers
• Toasted baguette slices
• Rice cakes

Ideal for a buffet, starter, or cocktail party.

Using Leftover Chicken

One of the smartest things about Coronation Chicken Salad is how perfectly it repurposes leftover chicken. Whether you’ve roasted a whole bird for Sunday lunch or have a few grilled breasts in the fridge, this recipe turns yesterday’s meal into something new and exciting.

Why Leftover Chicken Works So Well

Fully cooked and cooled chicken absorbs the dressing beautifully. It’s already seasoned, adding extra depth to the salad. Using leftovers saves time and reduces food waste.

Best Types of Leftover Chicken to Use

• Roast Chicken: Adds great flavor and a slight smokiness.
• Poached Chicken: Mild and tender, ideal for soaking up dressing.
• Grilled or Barbecued Chicken: Adds a charred, savory twist.
• Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken: A convenient and flavorful shortcut.

Avoid chicken that’s heavily spiced or sauced, as it might clash with the coronation dressing.

How to Prepare Leftover Chicken for the Salad

Remove skin and bones (if any). Chop or shred into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating. Cool completely before adding to the dressing. Warm chicken can cause the mayonnaise to separate or thin out.

Time-Saving Tip

If you’re cooking chicken just for this recipe, consider batch-cooking extra portions. Poach or roast a few extra chicken breasts, shred them, and freeze in airtight bags. That way, you’ll always have cooked chicken on hand for quick salads, sandwiches, or wraps.

Reduce Food Waste

Using leftovers doesn’t just save time—it also reduces kitchen waste and makes meal planning easier. Coronation Chicken Salad is a great way to stretch a single chicken into multiple meals.

Storing and Keeping Leftovers Fresh

One of the advantages of Coronation Chicken Salad is that it stores well, making it ideal for meal prep, packed lunches, or leftovers. However, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh, safe, and flavorful.

How to Store Coronation Chicken Salad

• Use an airtight container: This helps preserve the texture and prevents the salad from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
• Refrigerate promptly: Store it within 1 hour of preparation, especially if it’s been sitting at room temperature.
• Label and date it: If you’re making a batch ahead of time, label the container so you know when it was made.

How Long Does It Last?

In the refrigerator:

The salad will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days when properly stored in a sealed container at or below 4°C (40°F).

Not suitable for freezing:

Mayonnaise and yogurt-based dressings tend to separate and become watery after freezing, so freezing is not recommended.

• Tip: If making ahead, add nuts or fresh herbs just before serving to keep them from going soggy.

Signs It’s Time to Discard

Always check for:

• Unpleasant odor
• Watery or separated dressing
• Slimy texture
• Any signs of mold

When in doubt, throw it out. It’s not worth the risk with poultry and mayo-based dishes.

Travel and Picnic Tips

If you’re taking Coronation Chicken Salad on the go:

Use a cool bag or ice packs to keep it chilled. Keep it sealed and separate from bread or salad greens until ready to eat to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition Information

Coronation Chicken Salad is rich, flavorful, and surprisingly adaptable when it comes to nutrition. Depending on the ingredients and portion size, it can range from indulgent to light and healthy. Below is a general nutritional breakdown, along with tips for making it more diet-friendly.

Estimated Nutritional Values (per serving – approx. 1 cup)

Note: These are approximate values based on a traditional recipe using mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, cooked chicken breast, and dried fruit.

• Calories: 350–400 kcal
• Protein: 25–30 g
• Fat: 20–25 g
• Saturated Fat: 3–5 g
• Carbohydrates: 10–15 g
• Sugars: 6–10 g (mostly from dried fruit and chutney)
• Fiber: 1–2 g
• Sodium: 400–600 mg (varies with seasoning and chutney)

Ways to Make It Healthier

Use Lean Chicken

Opt for skinless chicken breast for a lower-fat, high-protein option. Avoid using skin or fatty cuts if you’re watching fat intake.

Swap Full-Fat Mayo

Replace some or all of the mayo with low-fat mayo or plain Greek yogurt to reduce fat and calories. You can also use light crème fraîche or a mix of yogurt and mustard for tang.

Limit Sweet Additions

Use fewer raisins or dried fruits, or replace them with fresh fruit like apple or grapes, which are lower in sugar. Choose a low-sugar mango chutney or reduce the quantity used.

Control the Salt

Taste before adding extra salt—chutney and curry powder often contain sodium already. Use salt-free curry powder if available.

Add More Veggies

Stir in chopped celery, red pepper, or grated carrot to increase fiber and volume without adding many calories.

Diet-Friendly Adjustments

• Low-Carb/Keto: Serve on lettuce wraps or leafy greens instead of bread. Limit dried fruit and use full-fat, sugar-free dressing options.
• Gluten-Free: The salad itself is naturally gluten-free; just pair it with gluten-free bread, wraps, or crackers.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt or just mayo, and check chutney ingredients for hidden dairy.
• High-Protein: Use extra chicken or add a spoonful of hemp seeds or cooked lentils for a protein boost.

Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe

Discover the ultimate coronation chicken salad recipe a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for picnics, lunches, or light dinners. Easy to make and delicious!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

For the Salad

• 700 g/3 cups cooked chicken skins and bones removed and chopped
• 2 tbsp spring/green onions sliced
• 10 dried apricots chopped
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds toasted
• 3 tbsp fresh coriander/cilantro chopped
• 50 g/2 cups rocket/arugula
• 1 tbsp black sesame seeds or nigella seeds
• salt to taste

For the salad dressing

• 80 ml/1/3 cup plain yogurt
• 60 ml/1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp curry powder fresh and good quality
• 1 tbsp mango chutney
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Method

 

1. In a mason jar mix yogurt, mayonnaise, curry powder, mango chutney, smoked paprika and lemon juice. Stir with a fork to combine and set aside.
2. Toast sliced almonds in a dry frying pan over low heat until they just about to start to colour. Immediately take off the heat and cool.
3. Take the chicken flesh off the bones and remove skin, chop into bite sized chunks.
4. In a large bowl combine chopped chicken, sliced spring onions, dried apricots, toasted sliced almonds, coriander/cilantro and rocket/arugula. Add the salad dressing and salt to taste, mix gently and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.