Coronation chicken is a dish that brings comfort, elegance, and a delightful twist to any meal. To complement this delicious recipe, consider pairing it with freshly made sourdough bread, which can soak up the creamy sauce and provide a satisfying texture.
A crisp garden salad featuring a simple mix of greens and a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the chicken. Additionally, couscous or quinoa serves as excellent bases, as these grains can absorb flavors well and enhance the overall dining experience. With these pairing ideas, your meal will be elevated, making it even more enjoyable.
Coronation chicken isn’t just any dish; it’s a piece of culinary history. Created for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, this meal combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce. Jamie Oliver puts his spin on this classic. His version is accessible, fresh, and packed with yummy ingredients.
As someone who enjoys cooking and experimenting in the kitchen, I decided to try his recipe. What I found was not only a delicious dish but also a fun cooking experience. Join me as we explore Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken, the ingredient breakdown, and the perfect way to prepare it.
What is Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken?
Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken is a modern take on the classic recipe. It involves poaching a whole chicken, then mixing the tender meat with a tantalizing sauce made from curry paste, yogurt, and fresh ingredients. The resulting dish is both warming and refreshing—a delightful combination that’s perfect for any gathering, from picnics to dinner parties.
Why This Recipe Works
Understanding why this recipe stands out helps you appreciate the thought behind it. Here are four key reasons why Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken is a must-try:
- Flavorful Profile: The combination of curry paste, ginger, and lemon creates a flavor burst. It’s tangy and slightly spicy, enlivening the hearty chicken.
- Ease of Preparation: With clear steps to follow, this dish comes together with ease. You don’t need to be a culinary pro to make it shine.
- Versatility: This recipe adapts well to various occasions, whether it’s a summer BBQ or a sophisticated dinner. And it tastes just as good cold as it does warm.
- Healthier Ingredients: Utilizing Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise keeps the dish creamy while reducing calories and boosting nutrition.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
To create your own delicious Coronation Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 whole free-range chicken (approx. 2 kg)
- 4 red onions, quartered
- 5 cm piece of fresh ginger
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-2 vibrant red chillies
- 1 bunch of fresh cilantro (30g)
- 2 zesty lemons
- 2 tablespoons of aromatic curry paste
- Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 x 435g can of pineapple rings in juice
- 4 generous tablespoons of creamy Greek yoghurt
- 2 tablespoons of toasted flaked almonds
- 1 juicy pomegranate, seeds removed
- 4 little gem lettuces, trimmed
- 1 crisp cucumber, sliced
- 2 poppadoms
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- 1 tablespoon of honey
Make sure to gather these items before starting your cooking adventure.
How to Make Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken?
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s break down the cooking process into simple steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the whole chicken in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the chicken completely. Throw in the quartered red onions, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Bring this to a gentle simmer and cook for about 1 hour or until the chicken is tender.
Step 2: Let the Chicken Cool
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot. Put it on a cutting board and let it cool. Reserve the cooking liquid for later—this will taste great in your soup or stock!
Step 3: Create the Sauce
While the chicken cools, prepare the sauce. In a large bowl, mix the curry paste, Greek yogurt, honey, and the juice of two lemons. Finely chop the cilantro and add that along with some salt and pepper to taste. You want this sauce to be vibrant and delicious.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken has cooled, shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the skin and bones. Add the meat to the bowl with your sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
To serve, arrange the shredded chicken on a platter. Garnish with toasted almonds and pomegranate seeds for a delightful crunch and burst of sweetness. Add cucumber slices and poppadoms on the side, making it look inviting.
Tips & Tricks
Creating delicious Coronation Chicken is about more than just following a recipe. Here are some practical tips to make your dish even better:
- Use a Thermometer: When poaching the chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to guarantee it’s fully cooked.
- Cool the Chicken Quickly: If you’re in a rush, put the chicken in the fridge after it cools slightly to speed up the process.
- Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance for flavors to meld.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of curry paste or omit the chillies.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding mint or basil to the sauce for a fresh twist.
Nutrition Information
jamie oliver coronation chicken recipe nutrition facts
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be a stretch), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over low heat or enjoy it cold for a refreshing meal.
What Sides Would Complement Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken?
Now that your main dish is ready, consider these side combinations:
- Zesty Couscous Salad: This light dish, packed with lemon, herbs, and veggies, adds a great refreshing contrast.
- Minty Yogurt Sauce: A cool yogurt sauce with fresh mint can be a delightful dip for the chicken.
- Crispy Vegetable Fritters: These can provide a crunchy texture, enhancing the overall eating experience.
The sides not only complement the chicken but also elevate your meal to new heights.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Not every kitchen has every ingredient on hand. Here are some alternatives if you’re missing items:
- Greek Yogurt: Use regular yogurt or sour cream as a substitute if you can’t find Greek yogurt.
- Curry Paste: If you don’t have curry paste, make a simple curry powder from turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
- Chicken: Feel free to swap the whole chicken for thighs or breasts if desired. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Pomegranate: If you can’t find pomegranate, consider using chopped grapes for a sweet finish.
These alternatives ensure your dish remains delicious even if something’s missing.
Jamie Oliver Coronation Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the whole chicken in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the chicken completely. Throw in the quartered red onions, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Bring this to a gentle simmer and cook for about 1 hour or until the chicken is tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot. Put it on a cutting board and let it cool. Reserve the cooking liquid for later—this will taste great in your soup or stock!
- While the chicken cools, prepare the sauce. In a large bowl, mix the curry paste, Greek yogurt, honey, and the juice of two lemons. Finely chop the cilantro and add that along with some salt and pepper to taste. You want this sauce to be vibrant and delicious.
- Once the chicken has cooled, shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the skin and bones. Add the meat to the bowl with your sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.
- To serve, arrange the shredded chicken on a platter. Garnish with toasted almonds and pomegranate seeds for a delightful crunch and burst of sweetness. Add cucumber slices and poppadoms on the side, making it look inviting.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use a Thermometer: When poaching the chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to guarantee it’s fully cooked.
- Cool the Chicken Quickly: If you’re in a rush, put the chicken in the fridge after it cools slightly to speed up the process.
- Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance for flavors to meld.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of curry paste or omit the chillies.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding mint or basil to the sauce for a fresh twist.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions that people often wonder about regarding Coronation Chicken:
Conclusion
Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken is more than a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, history, and culinary creativity. With its rich ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe brings joy to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, it’s a recipe that satisfies and impresses.
Ready to put on your apron and get cooking? I encourage you to take the plunge. Your friends and family will thank you, and who knows, you might just create a new favorite that becomes a staple in your home. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the flavors of Jamie Oliver’s Coronation Chicken transport you to a delightful dining experience!