All the flavours of classic coronation chicken—but made vegetarian! It’s just as flavourful, with a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce—but made with chickpeas instead of chicken and a yoghurt-based dressing instead of mayo-heavy versions. It has all the flavours of your classic coronation sandwich while keeping it healthy and light. It’s high in fibre, ready in 10 minutes, and honestly one of the most satisfying sandwiches you can make at home.
Not usually a fan of sandwiches? This one might just change your mind. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a simple way to enjoy a comforting yet nutritious meal. Whether for lunch at home or packed for on-the-go, this sandwich promises a taste of nostalgia with a plant-based twist.
What Is “Coronation Sandwich”?
The Coronation sandwich is a modern twist on the classic Coronation chicken—a dish originally created in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. It was designed to be celebratory yet simple enough to serve to large crowds. The original recipe included cooked chicken in a creamy, mildly spiced curry sauce with mayonnaise, apricots, and herbs. Over time, Coronation chicken became a British classic, often served in sandwiches, jacket potatoes, or salads. Its unique blend of savoury, sweet, and spiced flavours makes it both nostalgic and distinctive.
A Coronation sandwich typically features this same flavour profile—curry-spiced filling, creamy sauce, and sometimes sweet raisins or chutney—between slices of bread. My vegetarian twist keeps all the nostalgic flavour but swaps the chicken for chickpeas—making it lighter, higher in fibre, and just as satisfying. I discovered Coronation Sandwich when I first move in UK and I was so impressed by its delicious flavours: it’s the perfect sandwich if you love that sweet and savoury curry flavour but want something plant-based and nourishing.
Tips
- Toast the chickpeas properly – This enhances the flavour of the curry powder and adds a satisfying bite.
- Let the chickpeas cool completely – If they’re still warm, the yoghurt sauce may become runny.
- Use thick yoghurt – Greek-style or coconut yoghurt works best for a creamy, rich consistency.
- Don’t skip the mango chutney – It’s key to getting that classic sweet and tangy coronation flavour.
- Toast your bread – Optional, but it adds crunch and helps prevent sogginess if you’re packing the sandwich for later.
- Make ahead – The chickpea filling keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the sandwich fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Swaps
Mango chutney: Use a little apricot jam with a splash of vinegar.
Raisins: Try chopped dates, sultanas or dried cranberries.
Curry powder: Use garam masala or a mix of turmeric and cumin.
Thick yogurt: Use regular Greek yogurt or a dairy-free option.
Bread alternatives: Great in wraps, pitta, or even scooped onto crackers.
Storage
Store the chickpea coronation mix (without salad or bread) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the sandwich fresh to keep the bread from going soggy.
More Sandwich Ideas
Coronation Chickpea Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1/3 can chickpeas
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 2 slices of bread
- salad leaves I have used watercress
For the sauce
- 2 tbsp thick yogurt
- 1 tsp mayo
- handful raisins
- 1 tbsp mango chutney
- salt and garlic powder to taste
- sprinkle of coriander leaves
Instructions
- On a pan, add a drizzle of oil, chickpeas and curry powder. Toast it until fragrant and let it cool down completely.
- In the meantime, in a bowl add all the sauce ingredients and mix.
- Now add the sauce to the chickpeas and mix until well combined.
- Spread this mix onto a slice of bread, add some salad leaves and the second slice of bread.