Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most memorable, and this Easy Coronation Chicken Salad is a perfect example. This classic British recipe features tender chicken, a creamy dressing with a hint of curry, and a sweet touch from dried apricots. It’s an incredibly versatile dish, perfect for everything from casual picnics to celebratory meals. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, spreading it on a sandwich, or serving it with fresh greens, this salad is sure to impress.

I first made Coronation Chicken Salad for a friend’s summer barbecue, not knowing it would become an instant favorite. The mix of flavors—creamy, slightly spicy, and sweet—immediately captured everyone’s attention. “This is the best chicken salad I’ve ever had!” one guest exclaimed. Since that day, it’s been my go-to recipe for any gathering, and it’s easy to see why. It’s simple to make, yet always feels special.

The first time I served this to my family, everyone was hooked from the first bite. The balance of creamy dressing, curry powder, and dried apricots made for a refreshing yet satisfying dish. With minimal prep and ingredients, it’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like you’ve spent hours cooking, but in reality, it takes just a few minutes to prepare. It’s a wonderful reminder that sometimes, less is more.

Why This Easy Coronation Chicken Salad?

Selling Points:

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this delicious salad in just a few minutes, making it the perfect option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful and Unique: The curry powder gives the salad a slightly exotic flavor, while the apricots add a sweet touch, creating a unique and delicious combination.
• Versatile: Serve it as a sandwich filling, over a bed of greens, or with your favorite crackers for a versatile meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

What You Need for Easy Coronation Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for added creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
• 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Easy Coronation Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Shred or cube your cooked chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones, then chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), curry powder, ground cumin, turmeric, and honey. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Dressing
Add the chicken to the dressing and toss until all the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 4: Add Fruit and Nuts
Stir in the chopped dried apricots and toasted almonds, then mix gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Coronation Chicken Salad on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or in a wrap. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Coronation Chicken Salad

• Add Extra Crunch: Consider adding chopped celery, apples, or even grapes for additional texture and a burst of freshness.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder salad, use less curry powder or opt for a mild curry blend.
• Make It Lighter: Replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
• Toast the Almonds: Toasting the slivered almonds enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

• Substitute the Chicken: You can swap the chicken for turkey, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian or vegan version.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Try adding chopped cilantro, mint, or chives for a fresh, herbaceous kick.
• Dried Fruit Variety: In place of apricots, try raisins, cranberries, or dried cherries for a different flavor profile.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lower Fat: Use low-fat mayonnaise or a combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt to cut down on fat.
• Incorporate More Vegetables: Add chopped carrots, cucumbers, or peas to give the salad a more refreshing, veggie-packed boost.
• Reduce the Sugar: You can use less honey or omit it entirely if you prefer a less sweet version.

Closing for Easy Coronation Chicken Salad

This Easy Coronation Chicken Salad is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its unique blend of spices, sweetness from dried apricots, and a creamy dressing, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, a light lunch, or a special gathering, this dish never disappoints. Enjoy the combination of texture, flavor, and nutrition in every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Coronation Chicken Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad up to 2 days ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually improve as they sit!

Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted chicken, grilled chicken, or even turkey works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken with chickpeas, roasted veggies, or tofu to make a hearty vegetarian version.

What can I serve it with?
Serve the salad as a sandwich filling, in a wrap, over greens, or with crackers for a delicious snack. It pairs well with fresh fruit or a light soup.

Can I freeze Coronation Chicken Salad?
It’s not ideal to freeze this salad, as the mayonnaise-based dressing can separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days of making.

Can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the curry powder or try a milder blend. For more heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

This Easy Coronation Chicken Salad is a delightful, crowd-pleasing dish that offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s simple to prepare, yet elegant enough for any occasion, making it a go-to recipe you’ll love to share with family and friends!

Easy Coronation Chicken Salad

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for added creaminess)

• 1 tablespoon curry powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots

• 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Shred or cube your cooked chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones, then chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
• Step 2: Make the Dressing
• In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), curry powder, ground cumin, turmeric, and honey. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 3: Combine Chicken and Dressing
• Add the chicken to the dressing and toss until all the chicken is evenly coated.
• Step 4: Add Fruit and Nuts
• Stir in the chopped dried apricots and toasted almonds, then mix gently to combine.
• Step 5: Serve and Garnish
• Serve the Coronation Chicken Salad on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or in a wrap. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.