Waitrose Coronation Chicken Recipe: Royal Celebration in Every Bite

I’ve perfected the Waitrose Coronation Chicken recipe, a dish fit for royalty that’s surprisingly simple to make. This classic British creation originated for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953 and remains a celebration favorite.

Serving 4-6 people, this recipe combines tender chicken with a creamy, tangy sauce that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. With straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients, you’ll be serving a taste of history at your next gathering.

Ingredients for Waitrose Coronation Chicken

Royal flavors in a modern twist. Simple ingredients, elegant results.

The chicken matters here. Organic or free-range makes a difference in flavor and texture. Most grocery stores have pre-cut chicken breasts that save time. For the curry powder, Penzeys has great options—mild or hot depending on your preference. The apricots should be unsulfured for the best flavor.

No Greek yogurt? Sour cream or crème fraîche works as a substitute, though the flavor will be richer. For a vegan version, try cashew cream. If you can’t find unsulfured apricots, dried mango is a tasty alternative. The red onion can be replaced with shallots for a milder flavor. Fresh cilantro is nice, but parsley works too.

This dish keeps beautifully in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors meld together, making it taste even better the next day. Store in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—perfect for meal prep.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Coronation Chicken

Here’s the method to create this classic dish with a perfect balance of flavors.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Perfection

Start by poaching the 1.5 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts in simmering water until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. I like to add some aromatics like onion and bay leaves to the water for extra flavor. Once cooked, let the chicken cool completely before dicing it into ½-inch pieces.

It’s crucial to cook the chicken gently so it stays moist. If you notice the water boiling vigorously, reduce the heat immediately. The chicken should be tender and juicy when done.

Step 2: Prepare the Flavorful Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt, 0.5 cup Mayonnaise, 2 tbsp Curry Powder, and 2 tbsp Lemon Juice. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated. The curry powder gives this dish its signature flavor, so don’t be shy with it.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it needs more tang, add a bit more lemon juice. If you prefer it thicker, add a little more mayonnaise.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooled, diced chicken to the bowl with the sauce. Gently fold the chicken into the sauce until it’s fully coated. Then, stir in the 0.5 cup Dried Apricots and 0.25 cup Red Onion. Make sure everything is well distributed.

At this point, you can adjust the seasoning with the 1 tsp Salt, 0.5 tsp Black Pepper, and 0.25 tsp Cayenne Pepper if you’re using it. The cayenne adds a nice kick, but feel free to omit it if you prefer a milder dish.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Cilantro and White Wine

Just before serving, stir in the 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro and 2 tbsp White Wine. The fresh cilantro adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the richness of the sauce. The white wine helps to balance out the flavors and adds a slight depth to the dish.

Give everything a good stir and check the seasoning one last time. Your coronation chicken is now ready to serve. You can serve it on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with some crusty bread.

Flavor Customization for This Recipe

Spice It Up

For a bolder flavor, increase the curry powder to 3 tbsp or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. This gives the dish an extra kick that complements the richness of the chicken. 🔥

Fruit Variations

Replace the dried apricots with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different twist. These fruits add natural sweetness that balances the tangy sauce. You can also add some fresh grapes or apple chunks for extra texture.

Herb Infusions

Mix in some chopped fresh mint or tarragon with the cilantro for a refreshing flavor profile. These herbs add a bright, aromatic note that elevates the dish. Start with a small amount, like 1 tbsp, and adjust to taste.

Crunchy Texture

Add some toasted chopped almonds or crushed pistachios on top before serving. The nuts provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce. Simply toast the nuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Zesty Twist

Increase the lemon juice to 3 tbsp and add some grated lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor. This brightens the dish and cuts through the richness. Be careful not to add too much, as it can overpower the other flavors.

Smoky Flavor

Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce for a deep, smoky flavor. This pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apricots and adds complexity to the dish. Start with ¼ tsp and adjust to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions