Why You’ll Love this Coronation Chicken Salad Recipe
When you try this Coronation Chicken Salad recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite for gatherings and casual meals alike. The blend of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and sweet apricots creates a delightful contrast in every bite.
I love how the creamy dressing, with just a hint of curry, elevates the flavors without overpowering them. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
Whether you serve it on a bed of fresh lettuce or in a sandwich, this salad always impresses. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients of Coronation Chicken Salad
When it comes to whipping up a tasty dish without spending hours in the kitchen, this Coronation Chicken Salad is a real winner. Imagine sinking your fork into tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and sweet apricots, all harmoniously blended with a creamy curry dressing. It’s like a flavor party in every bite!
Plus, it’s so straightforward to make that even the most kitchen-challenged among us can pull it off. So, let’s plunge into what you need to bring this delicious salad to life.
Ingredients for Coronation Chicken Salad:
- 1 barbecue rotisserie-cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup roasted cashews, chopped coarsely
- 1/2 cup dried apricot, sliced thinly
- 1 large lettuce, leaves separated
- 1 large red capsicum, sliced thinly
- 1 cup S&W real whole egg mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
Now, a little note on the ingredients: feel free to play around with them! If you’re not a fan of cashews, almonds or walnuts could give it a nice crunch too.
And if you prefer fresh fruit, some diced mango might add an exciting twist. The beauty of this salad is that it’s quite forgiving. You can adjust the flavors to match your taste buds.
Maybe you want a little more zing? Just toss in an extra splash of lemon juice or a dash of curry powder. Cooking is all about experimenting, right? So, don’t be shy—make it your own!
How to Make Coronation Chicken Salad
Making a delicious Coronation Chicken Salad is easier than you might think, and it really comes together in just a few steps. First things first, grab that 1 barbecue rotisserie-cooked chicken. It’s the star of the show! Carefully remove the skin and bones, because nobody wants a surprise crunch when they’re expecting tender chicken. Slice the meat into thick pieces—don’t worry about making them perfect, just aim for bite-sized chunks.
Now, let’s whip up the dressing. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of S&W real whole egg mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons of curry powder. Whisk these ingredients together until it’s all creamy and well blended. This is where the magic happens; the curry powder adds warmth and a hint of exotic flavor, while the lemon juice brightens everything up.
Once that’s done, it’s time to bring it all together. Add the sliced chicken, 1/2 cup of chopped roasted cashews, and 1/2 cup of thinly sliced dried apricots to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to combine—think of it as giving your salad a cozy hug, ensuring every piece gets its share of that luscious dressing.
While you’re at it, let’s make it look pretty! Arrange the large lettuce leaves on a platter like they’re a comfy bed for your chicken mixture. Top it off with 1 large red capsicum, sliced thinly, for that pop of color and crunch.
When you serve this up, it’s not just a salad; it’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. And don’t forget, if you find yourself with leftover chicken (which is a rare occurrence in my house), this salad makes for a delightful next-day lunch too. It’s like a little gift from yesterday’s dinner, just waiting for you to enjoy.
Coronation Chicken Salad Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to put your own spin on Coronation Chicken Salad, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
You can swap the rotisserie chicken for shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Instead of cashews, try slivered almonds or walnuts for a different crunch.
For sweetness, raisins or cranberries work well in place of dried apricots. If you want a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Ultimately, experimenting with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can lighten up the dish while still keeping it creamy. Enjoy customizing!
What to Serve with Coronation Chicken Salad
A delightful Coronation Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that enhance its flavors.
I love serving it with crusty baguette slices or warm pita bread, which are perfect for scooping up the salad. You can also add a light, invigorating cucumber salad for a nice crunch or serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a heartier option.
Another favorite of mine is a simple fruit salad; the sweetness complements the spices in the chicken.
Finally, don’t forget some chilled white wine or sparkling water to elevate the dining experience. Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing Coronation Chicken Salad, I recommend keeping a few tips in mind to enhance your dish.
First, don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the flavors beautifully. If you want extra crunch, consider adding diced celery or sliced almonds. For a unique twist, try substituting the dried apricots with raisins or cranberries.
Make sure to chill the salad for at least an hour before serving—this allows the flavors to meld.
Finally, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, but consume them within two days for the best taste and texture.
Enjoy your creation!