Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken is a creamy, mildly spiced, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, or served as a light main course. Originally created for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953, this dish combines tender chicken with a rich, curried mayo-based sauce and sweet fruit for a delicious contrast of flavors.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Classic British Dish: A historic recipe that has stood the test of time.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The curried mayonnaise sauce is both tangy and mildly spiced.
- Versatile and Easy: Serve it in sandwiches, salads, or as a side dish.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Can be made in advance for quick meals.
- Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the spices and sweetness to your preference.
What is Jamie Oliver Coronation Chicken?
Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken is a creamy and mildly spiced dish made with poached or roasted chicken, a curried mayo and yogurt sauce, and sweet elements like mango chutney or dried fruit. It’s a perfect combination of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors.
Jamie Oliver Coronation Chicken Recipe Ingredients
For the Chicken:
Tender chicken breast serves as the base for this flavorful dish.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 500ml chicken stock (for poaching)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Coronation Sauce:
A creamy, spiced sauce enhances the flavor and richness of the dish.
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mango chutney
- 1 teaspoon mild curry powder
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon raisins or chopped dried apricots (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For Garnish and Serving:
These final touches add freshness and texture.
- Fresh coriander or parsley (chopped)
- Sliced almonds (for crunch)
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
- Warm baguette, rice, or jacket potato (optional)

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Poaching ensures tender and juicy chicken, perfect for mixing with the sauce.
- Place the chicken breasts in a pot with chicken stock and a bay leaf.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, let it cool, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Coronation Sauce
This creamy, spiced sauce is the heart of the dish, bringing all the flavors together.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yoghurt, mango chutney, curry powder, turmeric, and lemon juice.
- Stir in raisins or chopped dried apricots for a hint of sweetness.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Mixing the chicken with the sauce ensures that every bite is packed with flavour.
- Add the shredded chicken to the bowl with the sauce.
- Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Final touches enhance the texture and presentation of the dish.
- Sprinkle with fresh coriander or parsley.
- Add sliced almonds for extra crunch.
- Serve in a sandwich, over rice, or on a salad.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Coronation Chicken
Pairing the dish with the right sides makes it even more enjoyable.
- Buttered Baguette: A crusty roll or sandwich bread complements the creamy filling.
- Fluffy Basmati Rice: A traditional way to serve Coronation Chicken.
- Jacket Potato: A comforting and hearty serving option.
- Fresh Salad: A light and refreshing way to balance the richness.
- Cucumber Raita: A cooling yoghurt dip pairs beautifully with the curry flavours.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken
Follow these tips to achieve the best flavour and texture.
- Poach for Tenderness: Poaching chicken keeps it juicy, but you can also use roasted or leftover chicken.
- Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the mango chutney and dried fruit based on your preference.
- Make It Healthier: Swap mayo for extra Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Let It Sit: Allow the chicken to marinate in the sauce for an hour for a deeper flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Coronation Chicken
This dish is highly adaptable, allowing for different twists and flavors.
- Vegetarian Version: Use roasted chickpeas or jackfruit instead of chicken.
- Extra Creamy: Add a spoonful of coconut cream for a richer texture.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of bread or rice.
- Nut-Free Version: Skip the almonds if avoiding nuts.
- Grilled Version: Use grilled chicken for a smokier flavor.

How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Coronation Chicken?
Proper storage ensures that the flavours stay fresh and the dish remains delicious.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Option: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 1 month (without the garnishes).
- Best Storage Tip: Keep chilled and stir well before serving again.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Coronation Chicken Leftovers?
Reheating properly ensures the dish maintains its texture and flavor.
- Serve Cold: Coronation Chicken is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
- Avoid Microwaving: Heating the sauce can change its consistency.
- Refresh with Extra Yogurt: Stir in a spoonful of yogurt if the sauce thickens after refrigeration.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
This dish provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
FAQs
Can I make Coronation Chicken without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and coconut cream for a lighter version.
What’s the best way to shred chicken for Coronation Chicken?
The easiest way is to use two forks to pull apart the cooked chicken. You can also use a hand mixer for faster shredding.
How do I prevent Coronation Chicken from becoming too dry?
Ensure the chicken is poached properly and add extra yogurt or a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much after refrigeration.
Can I make Coronation Chicken in advance?
Yes, Coronation Chicken can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when served the next day.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken is a creamy, mildly spiced dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether served in a sandwich, over rice, or as a salad topping, this classic British recipe is a must-try. Give it a go today and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal with a royal history!
Print
Jamie Oliver Coronation Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Poaching and mixing
- Cuisine: British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken is a creamy and mildly spiced dish made with poached or roasted chicken, a curried mayo and yogurt sauce, and sweet elements like mango chutney or dried fruit. It’s a perfect combination of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
Tender chicken breast serves as the base for this flavorful dish.
-
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
- 500ml chicken stock (for poaching)
-
- 1 bay leaf
-
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Coronation Sauce:
A creamy, spiced sauce enhances the flavor and richness of the dish.
-
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
-
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
-
- 1 tablespoon mango chutney
-
- 1 teaspoon mild curry powder
-
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
-
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
-
- 1 tablespoon raisins or chopped dried apricots (optional)
-
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
-
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For Garnish and Serving:
These final touches add freshness and texture.
-
- Fresh coriander or parsley (chopped)
-
- Sliced almonds (for crunch)
-
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
-
- Warm baguette, rice, or jacket potato (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Poaching ensures tender and juicy chicken, perfect for mixing with the sauce.
-
- Place the chicken breasts in a pot with chicken stock and a bay leaf.
-
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
-
- Remove the chicken, let it cool, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Coronation Sauce
This creamy, spiced sauce is the heart of the dish, bringing all the flavors together.
-
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, mango chutney, curry powder, turmeric, and lemon juice.
-
- Stir in raisins or chopped dried apricots for a hint of sweetness.
-
- Add Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Mixing the chicken with the sauce ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
-
- Add the shredded chicken to the bowl with the sauce.
-
- Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Final touches enhance the texture and presentation of the dish.
-
- Sprinkle with fresh coriander or parsley.
-
- Add sliced almonds for extra crunch.
-
- Serve in a sandwich, over rice, or on a salad.