Delicious Coronation Chicken Tea Sandwiches: A Royal Treat for Your Tea Time

Tea sandwiches are a delightful addition to any afternoon tea, but when it comes to a truly special and flavorful treat, nothing beats Coronation Chicken Tea Sandwiches. This classic British recipe has a rich history, a deliciously creamy texture, and a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. If you’re looking for an elegant yet simple dish for your tea party, picnic, or even just a light lunch, you’ll love these sandwiches.

As someone who has hosted numerous afternoon tea gatherings, I can confidently say that coronation chicken tea sandwiches are always a hit. The creamy curry-infused chicken, combined with the subtle sweetness of apricots or raisins, makes for an irresistible bite-sized delight. Let’s dive into the history, ingredients, and step-by-step preparation of this royal favorite!

The History Behind Coronation Chicken

The origins of the coronation chicken date back to 1953 when it was created for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation banquet. Constance Spry and Rosemary Hume, two renowned British chefs, designed this dish as a cold chicken salad with a mild curry dressing. It quickly gained popularity and became a staple in British cuisine, particularly in sandwiches.

Today, this delicious recipe has evolved into many variations, including the widely loved coronation chicken tea sandwiches recipe, which is a perfect balance of creamy, slightly spiced, and slightly sweet flavors.

Coronation Chicken Tea Sandwiches Ingredients

A well-balanced coronation chicken tea sandwich starts with the right ingredients. Below is a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need, including their purpose to enhance flavor and texture.

For the Chicken Filling:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Cooked and shredded chicken	2 cups	Provides a protein-rich base
Mayonnaise	3 tablespoons	Adds creaminess and richness
Greek yogurt	2 tablespoons	Balances the mayo with a tangy, lighter texture
Mild curry powder	1 teaspoon	Brings the signature warm, spiced flavor
Mango chutney	1 teaspoon	Adds a touch of sweetness and depth
Dried apricots or golden raisins	1 tablespoon	Enhances the texture and sweetness
Lemon juice	1 teaspoon	Brightens the flavors
Worcestershire sauce	1 teaspoon	Adds umami depth
Salt	1/2 teaspoon	Enhances the overall flavor
Black pepper	1/4 teaspoon	Provides a mild heat balance
Fresh cilantro or parsley	1 tablespoon (chopped)	Adds freshness

For the Sandwiches:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Soft white or whole wheat bread	8 slices	Provides a soft, neutral base
Butter (softened)	2 tablespoons	Prevents the bread from getting soggy
Baby arugula or watercress (optional)	A handful	Adds freshness and a slight peppery bite

Optional Add-ins to Enhance Flavor

To customize your coronation chicken tea sandwich, consider these extra ingredients:

• Sliced almonds – For added crunch
• Chopped celery – Provides a fresh, crisp bite
• Crème fraîche – Makes the filling extra rich
• Chopped apple – Introduces a subtle tartness
• Pinch of tarragon – A sophisticated herbal note

How to Make Coronation Chicken Tea Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

1. Gather Ingredients: Start by measuring all your ingredients and placing them in separate bowls for easy access.
2. Mix the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and mild curry powder. Stir until fully blended to create a smooth and flavorful base.
3. Incorporate the Sweet & Tangy Elements: Add the mango chutney, dried apricots (or golden raisins), lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
4. Season to Perfection: Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste. Remember, a little seasoning goes a long way in bringing out the flavors.
5. Fold in the Chicken: Add the cooked, shredded chicken into the mixture, gently stirring until all the pieces are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
6. Add Freshness: Stir in the freshly chopped cilantro or parsley to enhance the overall aroma and taste of the filling.
7. Chill for Best Results: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld, creating a richer and more cohesive taste.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Prepare the Bread: Lay out your bread slices on a clean surface. Using a butter knife, spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. This prevents the filling from making the bread soggy.
2. Spread the Filling: Take a generous portion of the coronation chicken sandwich filling recipe and spread it evenly onto four slices of bread. Be sure to cover the entire surface for a satisfying bite in every piece.
3. Add Optional Greens: If using, place a few leaves of baby arugula or watercress on top of the filling for a fresh, slightly peppery flavor.
4. Top and Press: Cover the filling with the remaining four slices of buttered bread and gently press down to ensure the sandwiches hold together.
5. Trim for Elegance: Carefully trim off the crusts using a sharp knife. This step is optional but recommended for a more refined presentation.
6. Cut into Shapes: Slice each sandwich into small triangles or fingers, making them the perfect size for afternoon tea servings.
7. Serve Immediately or Store: If you don’t want to serve the sandwiches immediately, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 hours to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions & Variations for Perfect Coronation Chicken Tea Sandwiches

• Pair with Classic Tea Selections: These sandwiches go beautifully with Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or English Breakfast tea.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge for better flavor development.
• A twist on Tradition: Swap Greek yogurt for crème fraîche for a richer taste or add a pinch of tarragon for a herbal note—much like Tarragon chicken salad tea sandwiches.
• Store-Bought Convenience: If you’re short on time, you can find a version of this sandwich filling at stores like Coronation Chicken Sandwich Tesco, but nothing beats homemade!

Also, try other recipes like the Madeline cookies with Cream or San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe by the Author.

Health Benefits of Coronation Chicken Tea Sandwiches

Despite their indulgent flavor, coronation chicken tea sandwiches can be quite nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps with muscle maintenance and overall health. The addition of Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can reduce fat content while increasing probiotics and calcium.

Moreover, the use of curry powder provides anti-inflammatory benefits, thanks to the turmeric content. Adding dried fruits such as apricots or raisins also contributes to fiber and essential vitamins, making these sandwiches a wholesome choice for tea time.

Tips for a Perfect Tea Party with Coronation Chicken Sandwiches

If you’re planning an afternoon tea, here are some tips to make your gathering extra special:

• Presentation Matters: Serve the sandwiches on a tiered platter with a mix of other finger foods like scones and petit fours.
• Tea Pairings: Offer a selection of teas, including classic black tea, herbal infusions, and floral blends.
• Keep it Elegant: Use fine china, linen napkins, and vintage-inspired decorations for a refined touch.
• Make it Interactive: Set up a small station where guests can customize their sandwiches with additional toppings like chopped nuts or fresh herbs.

Why You’ll Love These Coronation Chicken Tea Sandwiches

1. A Royal Legacy: You’ll be enjoying a recipe that has been beloved since Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation.
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The mix of curry, creamy mayonnaise, and fruity sweetness creates a unique and unforgettable taste.
3. Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a formal afternoon tea, a bridal shower, or a quick snack, these sandwiches are always a crowd-pleaser.
4. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a fancy and elegant dish in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Coronation Chicken Tea Sandwiches

What is Coronation Chicken Sandwich Made Of?

Coronation chicken sandwiches are made of shredded cooked chicken mixed with a creamy sauce of mayonnaise, yogurt, curry powder, and mango chutney. Dried fruits like apricots or raisins add a touch of sweetness, and the mixture is spread onto soft bread to create a flavorful and satisfying sandwich.

What to Serve with Coronation Chicken Sandwiches?

Coronation chicken sandwiches pair well with new potatoes and a green salad, cold rice salad, or as a part of a buffet with quiche and sausage rolls. They also make a great topping for jacket potatoes or can be enjoyed on their own as a light meal.

What is the Queen’s Coronation Chicken Recipe?

The Queen’s coronation chicken recipe includes cooked chicken breasts, curry powder, chopped apricots, almonds, sultanas, mayonnaise, yogurt, mango chutney, Worcestershire sauce, and coriander. These ingredients create a creamy, mildly spiced, and slightly sweet chicken salad filling.

Why is it Called Coronation Chicken?

In 1953, Coronation Chicken was developed for the coronation dinner of Queen Elizabeth II. The dish was widely shared so that people across Britain could prepare and enjoy it during street parties and celebrations.

Is Coronation Chicken Halal?

Coronation chicken can be made halal if prepared with halal-certified chicken and ingredients. Some store-bought versions, like pre-packaged tubs, may also be labeled halal-friendly.

Final Thoughts – Delicious Coronation Chicken Tea Sandwiches

Coronation chicken tea sandwiches are not just a nod to British culinary history; they are a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that never fails to impress. The combination of creamy, lightly spiced chicken with the softness of the bread and optional crunchy elements creates a satisfying bite every time.

I’ve made these sandwiches for everything from casual lunches to fancy afternoon teas, and they always steal the show. The balance of flavors and textures makes them a joy to eat, and the ease of preparation means they’re accessible to everyone. Whether you’re hosting a royal-themed gathering or just looking to treat yourself, these sandwiches bring a little taste of history with every bite. Trust me—once you try them, you’ll be making them again and again!