Coronation Chicken Sandwich (Classic British Recipe)

Few sandwiches capture the essence of British comfort quite like a Coronation Chicken Sandwich. With its creamy dressing, golden hue and gentle hint of spice, this British classic bridges nostalgia and modern flavour. Whether for lunch, a picnic, or a dainty afternoon tea, it's the perfect balance of sweet, savoury and satisfying.

Jump to:

• History of The Great British Sandwich
• Ingredients and Substitutes
• Step-By-Step Method
• Watch A Video
• How To Poach Chicken Breast?
• Variations
• Recipe FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage & Using Leftover Filling
• More Sandwich Recipes
• Coronation Chicken Sandwich

Love chicken sandwiches? Try a Classic Chicken Mayo Sandwich or a Spiced Chicken Tikka Sandwich next! Looking for another British Classic but with a twist? Try our BLTA Sandwich (that's BLT Sandwiches with Avocado!)

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History of The Great British Sandwich

The Coronation Chicken Sandwich dates back to 1953, created by Rosemary Hume and Constance Spry for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Originally called Poulet Reine Elizabeth, the original coronation chicken recipe was a dish of poached chicken dressed in a mild creamy sauce flavoured with curry powder, tomato puree, and red wine, symbolising post-war optimism and a touch of exotic flair.

Over the years, the recipe evolved into the beloved coronation chicken salad and its most popular modern form - the sandwich filling. Today, it's still one of Britain's favourite ways to use leftover chicken, found everywhere from afternoon tea selections to pub lunches and school picnics.

Ingredients and Substitutes

Each component of this coronation chicken sandwich recipe adds its own layer of flavour and texture:

• Chicken breasts. Traditionally poached for tenderness, though rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken works beautifully.
• Mayonnaise. The creamy base of the dressing. Substitute up to ⅓ with Greek yoghurt for a lighter option.
• Mango chutney. Adds a touch of sweetness and gentle tang. Apricot jam can be used if you're out.
• Curry powder. Use medium curry powder for warmth without overpowering. A dash of turmeric deepens the golden colour.
• Dried apricots. Finely chopped for chewy, fruity contrast. Golden raisins, regular sweet raisins or sultanas also work well.
• Lime juice. Lifts the richness. Swap for lemon juice if preferred.
• Coriander (cilantro). Adds freshness; can be replaced with green onions or parsley.
• Lettuce and bread. Classic white sandwich bread and shredded lettuce make it traditional, but we love wholemeal or granary. 

Find the ingredient quantities, full recipe and nutritional values in the recipe card at the bottom of the post. 

Step-By-Step Method

1. Poach or prepare your chicken. Follow the method below, or use pre-cooked leftover chicken.

2. Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mango chutney, curry powder, lime juice, chopped apricots, and coriander. Mix until smooth and creamy.

3. Add the chicken: Cut or shred your cooked chicken and fold it into the creamy filling until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning.

4. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread the filling evenly on two slices of bread, top with shredded lettuce, then press down gently with another slice.

5. Slice and serve: Cut diagonally with a serrated knife and serve immediately - or wrap in parchment for lunch on the go.

How To Poach Chicken Breast?

If you're making this coronation banquet staple from scratch, poaching is the best way to ensure juicy chicken.

1. Place chicken breasts in a small saucepan and add enough cold water to cover. Drop in a bay leaf or a few peppercorns for aroma.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce to medium heat and cook for 4-5 minutes.
3. Turn off the heat, cover with a lid, and let the chicken sit in the hot water for 15 minutes.
4. Check the internal temperature - it should reach 74°C (165°F).
5. Transfer immediately to a large bowl with cold water to stop the cooking and lock in moisture.

Tender, juicy, and ready for your coronation sauce!

Variations

There are endless ways to customise coronation chicken sandwiches:

• The dressing also doubles as a Coronation Chickpea Pasta Salad dressing or a topping for jacket potatoes!
• Add a touch of heat with chopped red chilli or red onions for a punchy twist.
• Mix in finely sliced spring onions or green onions for crunch.
• Substitute lettuce with thin cucumber slices for extra freshness.
• Replace a third of the mayo with Greek yoghurt or sour cream for a lighter texture.
• Wrap the filling in pitta bread or wheat tortillas instead of sandwich bread - just follow our Curried Chickpea Wrap recipe.
• Try a vegan version using chickpeas - the Coronation Chickpea Sandwich or Curried Chickpea Wrap both make excellent alternatives.
• For an afternoon tea touch, use crustless white bread, cut into small tea sandwiches, and serve with sweet treats and fresh flowers.

Recipe FAQs

Serving Suggestions

Serve your coronation chicken sandwiches as part of a British afternoon tea as finger sandwiches alongside scones and sweet treats. They're also perfect for picnics or buffet spreads at celebrations.

A cup of Green Pea Soup or Carrot and Coriander Soup makes a great addition. 

Storage & Using Leftover Filling

Store any leftover sandwich filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before using, as the sauce may thicken slightly. 

For something heartier, serve the filling on a bed of lettuce or a bed of greens, or pile it onto warm jacket potatoes for a comforting meal. 

More Sandwich Recipes

Looking for more ideas for your next picnic or afternoon tea spread? Explore my collection of delicious sandwich recipes below - from retro classics to modern twists.

• Chicken Tikka Sandwich (Great Sandwich Filler Recipe)
• Tuna Cucumber Sandwich (Easy Lunch Recipe)
• Coronation Chickpea Sandwiches
• Tuna Melt Wrap