Vegan Coronation Chicken Sandwich

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This vegan Coronation Chickpea and Kidney Bean Sandwich is a twist on the classic Coronation Chicken sandwich filling. This chickpea filling is not only quick and easy to make, but it's also incredibly tasty. The only cooking required is the initial toasting of the spices.The flavor profile of this vegan Coronation Chicken sandwich filling is a tasty combination of fruity, sweet, spicy, creamy, and nutty notes. The addition of toasted almonds provide a pleasant crunch.

vegan coronation chicken sandwich on a blue plate with a wicker mat background.

This vegan coronation chicken recipe would be a perfect addition to any coronation celebration, as it honors the classic British dish while also providing a vegan and cruelty-free option. The fresh and flavorful combination of chickpeas and kidney beans, mixed with a creamy and spicy sauce, would be sure to impress guests and add a modern twist to traditional coronation fare.

Origin of Coronation Chicken

The Vegan Coronation Chicken Sandwich is a modern adaptation of the traditional Coronation sandwich filling, which was created in 1953 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's coronation.

Coronation Chicken has an interesting history, as it was initially created to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953. Constance Spry, a renowned florist and cookery writer, and Rosemary Hume, founder of Le Cordon Bleu in London, were commissioned to develop a dish that could be served at the coronation luncheon.

They aimed to create a recipe that would not only showcase British culinary heritage but also incorporate flavors from the Commonwealth countries, which led to the inclusion of curry powder, a nod to India's influence.

Today, Coronation Chicken is a popular sandwich filling in British cafes and is often served with baked potatoes, rice, or salad. Typically enjoyed chilled, this dish makes for a refreshing summer meal.

Vegan Coronation chicken

In recent years, Coronation Chicken has been reimagined to accommodate dietary and ethical preferences. The Vegan Coronation Chicken Sandwich, for instance, replaces the chicken with plant-based alternatives while retaining the essential flavors that make the original dish so popular.

Our tasty plant-based Coronation Chicken incorporates traditional ingredients while substituting meat and dairy with chickpeas and kidney beans, soy yogurt, and plant-based mayonnaise.

If you prefer, you can use cooked vegan Quorn pieces, meat-free pieces, or tofu instead of chickpeas and kidney beans. Alternatively, try your favorite bean combination – butterbeans or cannellini beans are great options, as they are creamy in texture.

To start, cinnamon, ginger, and curry powder are dry-toasted to release their wonderful aromas and mouth-watering flavors. These spices are then combined with yogurt, mayonnaise, mango chutney, and dried apricots to create a creamy, curried sauce. Finally, chickpeas and kidney beans are stirred in and the mixture is chilled in the refrigerator to marinate and absorb the delicious flavors.

The Vegan Coronation Chicken is fruity, sweet, spicy, creamy, crunchy, and nutty, delivering savory plant-based goodness in every bite.

For garnish and added crunch, flaked almonds are quickly dry-toasted in a pan until their edges begin to turn golden. Using the same pan in which the spices were toasted is ideal, as the almonds will pick up any remaining spice.

Scatter the toasted almonds over the Coronation filling before serving, along with some chopped coriander or cilantro for a fresh, flavorful finish.

How to prepare vegan coronation chicken

Preparing Vegan Coronation Chicken is both quick and easy, and it can even be made a few days in advance. As this sandwich filling is packed with curry flavors, allowing it to rest in the refrigerator will only enhance the flavours.

Coronation chickpeas spices toasting in small fry pan

dried chopped apricots in mixing bowl with spoon and Coronation sauce.

First, toast the spices [cinnamon, ginger, curry powder] in a dry pan.

Next, combine the vegan mayonnaise, mango chutney, tomato paste, vegan yogurt, chickpeas, kidney beans, and dried apricots in a bowl, and stir through the toasted spices.

Place the mixture into the refrigerator to chill.

toasted almonds in a small pan on weaved mat, wooden fork and spoon, small wooden cup.

Next, using the same pan as the spices were toasted in [don't wash beforehand as the spices will nicely flavour the almond slices] toast the almonds until they are tinged with brown edges.

vegan coronation chicken sandwich filling in a salad bowl with a wooden spoon.

The meat-free Coronation Chicken can be served as a salad or side dish without bread, rolls or tortilla wraps. Simply load up a salad bowl with the filling and scatter the toasted almonds over and sprinkle some chopped coriander for tasty freshness.

A stack of tortilla wraps filled with Coronation chickpea filling, sitting on blue plate with extra side salad and sprinkle of flaked almonds.

Enjoy the curried chickpeas as a tortilla wrap or sandwich filling. Check out the recipe notes below for tips on preparing the best tortilla wraps!

Recipe Notes And FAQS

Storage

Vegan Coronation Chicken filling can be stored within a covered container, and kept refrigerated for up to 3 days. Its best not to freeze the filling as the texture may change and the sauce may split.

The best way to store filled sandwiches

The best way to store sandwiches with vegan Coronation Chicken filling is by following these steps:

Wrap the sandwiches: After preparing the sandwiches, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or parchment paper. This helps to contain any moisture and prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy.
Use an airtight container: Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from other foods in the refrigerator from affecting the sandwiches.
Refrigerate: Store the sandwiches in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help to keep the ingredients fresh and maintain the flavors of the vegan Coronation Chicken filling.
Consume within a reasonable time frame: For optimal taste and freshness, it's best to consume the sandwiches within 1 to 2 days. However, if you made the filling in advance, be sure to account for the total time the filling has been stored in the refrigerator.
Keep the sandwiches separate from moist ingredients: If you're packing the sandwiches for lunch or a picnic, try to keep them separate from any wet or moist ingredients (such as fruits or salads) in your lunchbox or cooler to minimize the risk of sogginess.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy fresh and delicious vegan Coronation Chicken sandwiches whenever you're ready to eat them.

How can I easily prepare a tortilla wrap?

To easily wrap a tortilla with filling inside, follow these steps:

* Warm the tortilla: Briefly warm the tortilla in a microwave or on a hot pan for about 10-15 seconds. Warming the tortilla makes it more pliable and easier to fold without breaking. Although this depends on the type of tortilla wrap used as some are very soft and may not require warming before use.

* Lay the tortilla flat: Place the warmed tortilla on a clean, flat surface, such as a cutting board or a plate.

* Add the filling: Place the filling in the center of the tortilla, leaving some space (about 1 to 1.5 inches) around the edges. Be mindful not to overfill the tortilla, as it may make wrapping difficult and cause the filling to spill out.

* Fold the sides: Fold the left and right sides of the tortilla inward toward the filling so that they partially overlap each other or touch the edges of the filling.

* Fold the bottom: Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up and over the filling, tucking it tightly under the filling to secure it.

* Roll it up: Continue to roll the tortilla, moving from the bottom to the top, while keeping the sides folded in. Apply gentle pressure while rolling to ensure the wrap stays tight and compact.

*Slice (optional): Once the tortilla is fully wrapped, you can either enjoy it as is or slice it in half diagonally.

What pairs well with vegan Coronation 'chicken'?

Instead of using the filling with bread, rolls, baguettes, tortilla wraps, pita breads, etc., try one of these ideas:

Salad: A fresh mixed green salad, cucumber salad, or a simple tomato and onion salad can provide a light, refreshing contrast to the creamy, spiced flavors of the Coronation Chickpeas.

Dip: Whole grain or crusty bread, chips/crisps, crackers, pita, or naan are excellent choices for scooping up the filling.

Grains: Rice, quinoa, couscous, or bulgur can complement the vegan Coronation Chickpea as a wholesome, filling side dish.

Baked potatoes: Stuff baked potatoes with the Coronation Chickpea filling for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Roasted vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes can add a delicious, smoky flavor and extra nutrients to your meal.

Pickles and chutneys: Tangy pickles or chutneys, such as mango or lime, can provide a contrast to the creamy filling and enhance the overall flavors of the dish.

Crudité platter: A colorful platter of raw vegetables, such as carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber, can be a crunchy and healthy accompaniment to the vegan Coronation Chickpea.

Can I substitute the chickpeas and kidney beans?

If you'd like to substitute chickpeas and kidney beans try one of these alternatives:

Other legumes: Try using other beans such as butter beans, cannellini beans, black beans, or white beans. You could also use green or brown lentils, which have a firmer texture, to create a similar consistency.

Vegan meat substitutes: Cooked vegan Quorn pieces, meat-free pieces, tempeh, or tofu (preferably firm or extra-firm) can be used in place of chickpeas and kidney beans. Simply chop or cube them and add them to the recipe as you would the beans. You may need to press the tofu to remove any excess moisture before using with the recipe.

Vegetables: Roasted or steamed cauliflower, broccoli, or a mix of your favorite vegetables can be used to create a different version of the dish. You may need to adjust the sauce quantity depending on the amount of vegetables you use.

Just keep in mind that the texture and taste of the dish might vary slightly depending on the substitute you choose.

Do I have to use dried apricots for vegan Coronation 'Chicken'?

Of course not. If preferred choose a different dried fruit such as raisins, sultanas, currants, cranberries or goji berries.

Do I have to use almonds for vegan Coronation 'Chicken'?

If allergies are a concern or you don't have almonds on hand, you can replace them with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds. Toast the seeds in the same way as the almonds.

Alternatively, if allergies are not an issue you can also use other nuts, such as walnuts, cashews, peanuts, depending on your preference.

Is vegan Coronation 'Chicken' gluten-free?

This vegan Coronation Chicken filling itself is generally gluten-free, as it consists of chickpeas, kidney beans, plant-based yogurt, plant-based mayonnaise, and various spices.

However, you should always check the labels of the ingredients you're using, such as the curry powder and chutneys, to ensure that they are gluten-free and do not contain any hidden gluten.

Additionally, if you are substituting the beans with vegan meat-free alternatives like vegan Quorn pieces, do check the labels to make sure they are gluten-free.

When serving the vegan Coronation Chicken as a sandwich or wrap, opt for gluten-free bread or tortillas. Alternatively, you can serve the filling with gluten-free crackers, on a bed of lettuce, or with a baked potato.

More tasty vegan sandwich filling ideas

***please note: for US measurements click the 'US customary button' within the recipe and the measurements will switch to tablespoons, cups, and ounces.***

📖 Recipe

Vegan Coronation 'Chicken' Sandwich

Print Recipe

Nothing captures the essence of British culinary nostalgia quite like a Coronation Chicken sandwich. And perhaps the vegan adaptation is even better! Savor a taste of Britain with this flavor-packed filling, perfect for sandwiches or as part of a delicious salad. Ideal for street parties, Coronation tea parties, afternoon teas, picnics, gatherings, and everyday enjoyment.

Course Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish, Starter

Cuisine British

Prep Time 20

chilling 20

Total Time 40

Servings

Calories 262

Author Jacq

Equipment

small non-stick fry pan/skillet

Ingredients

For the vegan coronation chicken:

1 can chickpeas [400g/14 oz can, drained or 240g cooked beans]
1 can kidney beans [400g/ 14 oz can, drained or 240g cooked beans]
6 whole dried apricots [chopped. Use a few extra if liked]
10 tablespoon soya yogurt [or other vegan plain yogurt]
3 tablespoon vegan mayonnaise [shop bought, or homemade see Notes]
1 tablespoon mango chutney
1 teaspoon tomato puree [paste]
2 teaspoon curry powder
¼ teaspoon cinnamon powder
¼ teaspoon ginger powder

Garnish:

4 tablespoons flaked almonds [use more or less]
fresh coriander [cilantro]

Optional:

mixed salad leaves
tortilla wraps, bread slices, baguettes, rolls, etc

Metric - US Customary

Instructions

Prepare the Coronation filling:

Dry toast the curry powder, cinnamon, and ginger in a small fry pan over a medium heat for a few minutes.
Shake and stir frequently so the spices toast evenly.
Tip the spices into a mixing bowl.
[The same pan will be used to toast the almonds so don't clean it as the residue spice powder will add flavour to the almonds.]
2 teaspoon curry powder, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon powder, ¼ teaspoon ginger powder
Mix through the yogurt, mayonnaise, tomato puree, and mango chutney with the spices.
10 tablespoon soya yogurt, 3 tablespoon vegan mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon tomato puree, 1 tablespoon mango chutney
Stir through the chickpeas, kidney beans, and chopped apricots. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Set aside to chill for at least 20 minutes, a few hours is better.
1 can chickpeas, 1 can kidney beans, 6 whole dried apricots

Toast the flaked almonds:

Heat the same pan the spices were toasted in and add the almonds. Over a medium heat until the almonds become golden at the edges, stir the almonds frequently to prevent burning.
Remove the almonds from the pan.
4 tablespoons flaked almonds

Assemble sandwich or tortilla:

When preparing a sandwich or tortilla wrap, it's a good idea to add a layer of lettuce or salad leaves to the bread before adding the filling. This will add some extra crunch and freshness. Sprinkle a few of the toasted almonds over the curried chickpea filling, and add some chopped coriander (cilantro). Finally, place another slice of bread on top or wrap it up if you're using a tortilla. Enjoy!
fresh coriander, mixed salad leaves, tortilla wraps, bread slices, baguettes, rolls, etc

Notes

Nutritional data is for guidance only and is not intended to be a strict calculation as ingredients can vary. Data does not include any bread products as many may choose to use the filling as a salad or side dish. Also, data does not include the almonds, salad or coriander garnishes.
Storage: Store the vegan coronation chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Prepared sandwiches can be wrapped with food wrap and stored for 1-2 days.
Serving suggestions: Serve as a sandwich filling, on top of a salad or baked potato, or as a party dip with crackers or vegetable sticks.
Adjusting the spiciness: If you prefer a milder or spicier coronation chicken, adjust the amount of curry powder and cayenne pepper to taste.
Vegan mayonnaise: You can use store-bought vegan mayonnaise or make your own by blending together vegan-friendly ingredients such as silken tofu, vinegar, and mustard. Check out Dr McDougall's easy recipe for a silken-tofu based mayonnaise.
Additions and substitutions: Feel free to add your own twist to the recipe by adding ingredients such as raisins, chopped apple, or cashews. You can also substitute the chickpeas and kidney beans with tofu, seitan, cooked vegan Quorn pieces, cooked cauliflower and broccoli, etc.
Letting the flavors meld: For the best flavor, allow the coronation chicken to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving, as this will give the flavors time to meld together.
Double the recipe: You can easily double or triple the recipe if you're serving a large crowd or want to have leftovers for later.

Nutrition

Thank you for trying out our vegan adaptation of the British classic Coronation Chicken! We hope you enjoyed making and savoring it as much as we do.

If you tried this recipe, please let us know in the comments below how it turned out for you, or if you made any modifications.

If you share your creations on social media, don't forget to tag us (@traditionalplantbasedcooking) and use the hashtag #traditionalplantbasedcooking, so we can see your scrumptious dishes!

Lastly, if you found this recipe helpful, please share it with your friends and family, so they can enjoy it too.

Thank you, and happy cooking!

Love, Jacq x