The Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken Recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a hint of curry, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. This classic recipe, popular since the 1950s, has been given a unique twist by the Hairy Bikers, making it a perfect choice for gatherings, picnics, or as a standout dish in your family meals.
In this article, I will show you how to make this Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken recipe, step by step. I will also give you some tips and tricks to make it even more delicious and easy.
What is Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken Recipe?
Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken is a dish that consists of cooked chicken pieces coated in a creamy and fruity sauce, sprinkled with toasted nuts and fresh herbs. It is a British dish that was created for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, and it has become a popular and classic recipe ever since. The name “Hairy Bikers” comes from the two British chefs and TV personalities who featured this recipe in their cookbook, The Hairy Bikers’ British Classics.
This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people and takes about 1 hour to prepare and cook.
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Why You Love this Recipe
- Utilizes Leftovers: An excellent recipe for transforming leftover chicken into a flavorful meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: This can be enjoyed either hot or cold, making it suitable for different settings and preferences.
- Universal Appeal: The mild, sweet taste of this dish caters to a wide range of palates.
- Nutritious: Offers a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken
To make the Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 kg (3 lb) cooked chicken, skin and bones removed, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise
- 4 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mango chutney
- 2 tsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
- 50 g (2 oz) flaked almonds, toasted
- Lettuce leaves, to serve
- Bread, rice, or naan bread, to serve
Useful Equipment
- A large mixing bowl
- A small saucepan
- A frying pan
- A wooden spoon
- A measuring spoon
- A measuring cup
- A knife
- A cutting board
- A serving platter
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken
Follow these instructions to make this recipe:
Step 1: Make the sauce
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the mayonnaise, yogurt, mango chutney, curry powder, and turmeric.
- Stir well until smooth and heated through, but do not boil.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Step 2: Coat the chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the coriander and half of the almonds.
- Add the sauce and mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 3: Serve the dish
- Transfer the chicken mixture to a serving platter and sprinkle with the remaining almonds.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce leaves, with bread, rice, or naan bread on the side.
- Enjoy your Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken!
What Do I Serve With Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken?
This delightful dish pairs well with a variety of sides that complement its rich and flavorful profile.
Here are some perfect accompaniments:
- Crusty Bread: Opt for a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough to soak up the savory sauce while adding a satisfying crunch.
- Fluffy Basmati Rice: Enhance the rice with aromatic spices like cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon sticks for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garlic Butter Naan Bread: Soft naan bread, brushed with garlic-infused melted butter, brings a luxurious richness and aroma to the meal.
- Salads: A green salad, coleslaw, or potato salad will introduce a fresh and contrasting element.
- Fruits: Incorporate grapes, pineapple, or apple for a refreshing touch of sweetness and juiciness.
- Pickles: Add cucumber, onion, or beetroot pickles for a zesty and crunchy bite.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken
Maximize the taste and texture of this classic dish with these expert tips:
- Creamy Sauce Base: Use full-fat mayonnaise and yogurt for a richer, more luxurious sauce. Alternatives like sour cream or crème fraîche also work well.
- Spice Balance: Tailor the curry powder and turmeric to your palate. Enhance the flavor with cumin, paprika, or garam masala for added depth.
- Quality Mango Chutney: Opt for a sweet and tangy variety like Major Grey’s or Geeta’s, or create your own with ripe mangoes, sugar, vinegar, and spices simmered to a thick consistency.
- Toasted Nuts: Toast nuts until golden for an aromatic addition. Almonds are traditional, but cashews, pistachios, or walnuts are also great choices.
- Fresh Herbs: Coriander adds freshness, but parsley, mint, or basil are excellent alternatives. When using dried herbs, reduce the quantity due to their potency.
- Temperature: For a cold dish, chill it to allow flavors to meld. If serving hot, reheat in a microwave or oven for an enjoyable warm meal.
Variations of Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken
Customize this versatile dish to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Alternative Proteins: Replace chicken with turkey, beef, or tofu for a different twist.
- Tropical Creaminess: Swap mayonnaise and yogurt with coconut milk, cream, or cream cheese for a decadent, tropical-inspired sauce.
- Fruit-Based Sauces: Experiment with apricot jam, cranberry sauce, or orange marmalade instead of mango chutney for varying fruity notes.
- Authentic Curry Flavors: Use curry pastes like tikka masala, korma, or vindaloo in place of curry powder and turmeric for a more intense flavor.
- Sweet Additions: Raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates in the sauce contribute additional sweetness and texture.
- Crunchy Vegetables: Introduce chopped celery, green onions, or red peppers for crunch and color.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or feta for an extra cheesy touch.
How do I store Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken Leftovers?
- In the fridge: You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before refrigerating it, to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage.
- In the freezer: You can store the leftovers in a freezer-safe container or a ziplock bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to label and date the container or bag, to keep track of the storage time. Also, make sure to leave some space in the container or bag, to allow for expansion when freezing.
- In the lunchbox: You can pack the leftovers in a lunchbox or a thermos, along with some bread, rice, or naan bread, and some salad, fruit, or pickles, for a delicious and satisfying lunch. Make sure to keep the lunchbox or thermos in a cool and insulated bag, to prevent the food from spoiling.
How do I reheat Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken Leftovers?
- In the microwave: You can reheat the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a lid or a damp paper towel, for about 2 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Stir halfway through, and add some water or milk if the sauce is too thick or dry.
- In the oven: You can reheat the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, for about 15 minutes, or until hot and bubbly, at 180°C (350°F). Add some water or milk if the sauce is too thick or dry.
- On the stovetop: You can reheat the leftovers in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Add some water or milk if the sauce is too thick or dry.
FAQs
Can I Prepare Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken in Advance?
Yes, this dish is perfect for preparing in advance. You can make the sauce and coat the chicken a day ahead, storing it in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld together more intensely. If serving cold, simply take it out of the fridge when you’re ready to eat. If you prefer it warm, reheat it gently while being careful not to overcook the chicken
How do I steam the chicken for this recipe?
You can steam the chicken in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water, or you can use an electric steamer. Alternatively, you can wrap the chicken in foil and bake it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Can I use canned or frozen mango for this recipe?
You can use canned or frozen mango for this recipe, but make sure to drain them well and chop them into small pieces. However, fresh mango will give you the best flavor and texture for this dish.
What can I substitute for the crème fraîche in this recipe?
You can substitute the crème fraîche with sour cream, yogurt, or cream cheese, depending on your preference and availability. You can also make your own crème fraîche by mixing 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of buttermilk and letting it sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours until thickened.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You can make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by replacing the chicken with tofu, tempeh, seitan, or chickpeas, and using vegan mayonnaise and yogurt. You can also use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and omit the butter.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to make this Hairy Bikers Coronation Chicken recipe, step by step. This dish is a delicious and easy way to use up leftover chicken or to make a fresh and flavorful meal. It is also a great dish to serve at parties, picnics, or buffets, as it can be eaten hot or cold. It is a classic British dish that has a rich history and a wonderful taste.
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Thank you for reading, and happy cooking! 😊
