Mary Berry Mexican Chicken Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

June 27, 2025
/ Mary Berry Recipes
/ By Kate Spencer

If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine with something delicious and easy to make, Mary Berry’s Mexican chicken recipe is definitely worth trying!

This dish is a perfect blend of bold, zesty flavors and tender chicken, all brought together in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, the vibrant mix of spices and fresh ingredients will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to impress at any gathering!

Contents

Mary Berry Mexican Chicken Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken, you’ll need a carefully selected collection of fresh and vibrant ingredients that bring out the best of Mexican flavors. The combination of spices, vegetables, and chicken creates a balanced dish that’s bursting with taste. Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

Chicken: The main protein of the dish, Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken recipe calls for chicken thighs or chicken breasts, depending on your preference. Thighs provide extra juiciness and flavor, while breasts are leaner. You’ll need about 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs for the recipe, but feel free to adjust according to how many servings you’re making.
Onion: A medium onion, finely chopped, adds a sweet, savory foundation to the dish, enhancing the depth of the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic, minced or crushed, brings an aromatic depth to the dish and is a staple in most Mexican cuisine.
Chili Peppers: A couple of mild red or green chilies (like a jalapeño or Fresno chili) contribute the heat that gives the dish its spicy kick. You can remove the seeds for a more subtle heat or keep them for a stronger bite.
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are a must for creating a fresh, rich sauce. In this recipe, they are blended to create a smooth base that marries the flavors together. Canned tomatoes could also work if fresh ones aren’t in season.
Cumin: Ground cumin provides an earthy, warm flavor, which is essential in Mexican cooking. This spice adds complexity to the dish, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
Paprika: Sweet paprika enhances the smokiness and imparts a rich, vibrant color to the sauce.
Lime: Fresh lime juice adds the necessary acidity to balance the richness of the chicken and sauce. It also adds a zesty freshness that lightens the dish.
Fresh Coriander (Cilantro): This herb offers a fresh, citrusy element that perfectly contrasts the smoky, spicy flavors. It’s best used as a garnish right before serving.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables, a good quality olive oil helps create a golden sear while contributing its subtle flavor.
Stock: Chicken stock or broth is used to create a saucy consistency and further infuses the dish with flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish to taste, ensuring all the ingredients come together harmoniously.

Equipment Needed

When making Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken, you’ll need a few key pieces of kitchen equipment to ensure the dish is prepared with ease and precision. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Skillet or Frying Pan: A large, non-stick skillet or frying pan is ideal for searing the chicken and cooking the sauce. This allows for even heat distribution, ensuring the chicken gets a crispy golden exterior while staying moist inside.
Knife and Chopping Board: A sharp knife and a sturdy chopping board are necessary for dicing the onion, garlic, chilies, and tomatoes. Having these vegetables prepped and ready will make the cooking process smoother and faster.
Blender or Food Processor: To create a smooth and consistent tomato base, a blender or food processor is required. It helps purée the tomatoes and any other ingredients, like roasted chilies, into a perfect sauce.
Ladle or Spoon: A ladle or large spoon will come in handy for stirring the sauce and checking its consistency as it simmers.
Tongs or Spatula: Tongs or a spatula will be useful for flipping the chicken, ensuring that each side gets a golden brown sear.
Serving Plates: Depending on how you’re serving, have a couple of beautiful serving plates ready to present this colorful dish.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken

mary berry mexican chicken 1

Making Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken is an exciting, straightforward process that brings out the best in fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Follow these detailed steps to create a perfect dish:

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, garlic, and chili peppers. For the tomatoes, either chop them finely or blitz them in a blender to form a smooth purée. Squeeze the lime and set the fresh coriander aside for garnish.
Sear the Chicken: Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a little paprika for added flavor. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and sear it for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onions until they turn soft and translucent. Add the garlic and chopped chili peppers, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the ground cumin and paprika, allowing the spices to toast lightly, which will bring out their aromas. Next, add the tomatoes to the pan, followed by the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Blend the Sauce: Once the sauce has reduced and thickened, use an immersion blender to purée the sauce directly in the pan. Alternatively, you can transfer the sauce to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
Finish Cooking: Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors and become tender.
Serve: Serve the Mexican chicken on a platter or individual plates, spooning the sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and a squeeze of lime. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or even a fresh green salad.

Expert Tips

Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the chili peppers. Alternatively, if you’re craving more spice, use hotter varieties like serrano peppers or add a pinch of chili flakes for extra kick.
Use Bone-In Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are convenient, using bone-in chicken can add more depth and flavor to the dish, especially during the simmering stage.
Homemade Stock: If you have the time, make your own chicken stock. Homemade stock enhances the overall flavor of the dish, making it richer and more complex than store-bought versions.
Toppings and Variations: Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top for added richness. You can also sprinkle grated cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a creamy, melty finish.
Meal Prep: This dish works well for meal prep. The chicken and sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days, making it an easy option for busy weeknights.

Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken is an exciting dish that blends bold Mexican flavors with the ease of a weeknight dinner. The combination of juicy chicken, a smoky and tangy sauce, and the freshness of lime and coriander creates a symphony of flavors that are both comforting and lively.

Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this dish is a great way to bring the taste of Mexico into your kitchen. With simple ingredients, accessible equipment, and a few expert tips, you’ll be able to recreate this crowd-pleasing dish that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken

Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser, but part of what makes it so fantastic is its versatility. While her original recipe is delicious on its own, there are countless ways you can tweak it to suit your tastes, dietary preferences, or even what you have on hand. Here are some easy and creative variations that can add a fun twist to your meal.

Add Extra Spice with Chipotle: If you enjoy a smoky, spicy kick, try incorporating chipotle peppers into the sauce. Chipotles in adobo sauce are perfect for adding depth and heat. Blend them with the tomatoes and other sauce ingredients to create a richer, spicier base that complements the chicken beautifully.
Swap for Ground Chicken or Turkey: For a leaner version of the dish, swap out the chicken thighs for ground chicken or turkey. Ground poultry will absorb the flavors of the sauce well and cook faster, making the dish lighter but still delicious. You can even make a taco-style filling with ground meat, adding a bit of black beans and corn for added texture.
Vegetarian Mexican Chicken: A fantastic vegetarian alternative involves substituting the chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or even tempeh. Roasting the cauliflower first can add a deliciously caramelized texture that mimics the meatiness of chicken, while keeping the dish fresh and light. Use black beans or pinto beans as a protein source, and add extra spices to elevate the flavor profile.
Add Fruit for Sweetness: A touch of sweetness can complement the bold flavors of Mexican chicken. Consider stirring in diced mango, pineapple, or even a few spoonfuls of peach salsa to balance the heat. These fruits not only add a lovely sweet note but also contribute vibrant colors and textures to the dish.
Incorporate Cheese: Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken is already packed with flavor, but adding cheese can turn this dish into a cheesy, indulgent delight. Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack melted over the top before serving can create a rich, gooey layer of cheese that contrasts nicely with the zesty spices.
Tortilla Swap: While serving the Mexican chicken with tortillas is a no-brainer, feel free to switch up the type of tortilla to cater to dietary preferences. You can use gluten-free tortillas, or swap in corn tortillas for an extra bit of crunch and authenticity. Alternatively, use whole-wheat tortillas for a healthier take on the classic.
Add a Touch of Lime or Cilantro: For a burst of freshness, consider garnishing your dish with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. The citrusy acidity from the lime will brighten up the dish, while cilantro can add an aromatic finish that complements the savory flavors.

These variations give you the flexibility to personalize the recipe depending on your mood, diet, or available ingredients, while still preserving the core flavors of this delightful dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

mary berry mexican chicken

Leftovers from Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken are a great way to extend the deliciousness of the meal, but proper storage is key to maintaining both flavor and safety. Here’s a guide on how to store the leftovers to ensure they stay fresh and taste just as good the next day:

Cool the Dish Quickly: After cooking, allow the Mexican Chicken to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before storing it. This prevents bacteria from growing. If you’re in a rush, place the dish in shallow containers to cool it faster.
Use Airtight Containers: The best way to store leftovers is by using airtight containers, which will help preserve the flavors and prevent any unwanted contamination or drying out. Glass containers are ideal because they are non-reactive and will keep the chicken tasting fresh.
Refrigeration Time: Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days. While the dish can stay safe a little longer, eating it within this time frame ensures the best taste and texture. Make sure your refrigerator is operating at 40°F (4°C) or lower to keep the food at a safe temperature.
Freezing for Longer Storage: If you want to extend the shelf life of your Mexican Chicken leftovers, freezing is a great option. Portion the leftovers into smaller, freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheat thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the Mexican Chicken on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. You can add a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, reheating in the microwave is quicker but may cause the chicken to dry out. To avoid this, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or wrap it in a damp paper towel before microwaving.
Check for Spoilage: Always trust your senses. If the leftovers have an off smell, strange texture, or any discoloration, it’s best to discard them to avoid foodborne illness.

By following these best practices, your leftovers can taste just as satisfying as the original meal!

What Goes Well With Mexican Chicken

Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken is a flavorful dish on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire meal. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or a more indulgent companion, here are some great options to serve alongside your Mexican Chicken:

Rice and Beans: A classic pairing, rice (whether white, brown, or Mexican-style rice) and beans (black, pinto, or refried) complement the flavors of the chicken perfectly. The rice absorbs the bold sauce, while beans provide an extra layer of protein and creaminess that balance the dish.
Guacamole and Salsa: You can never go wrong with fresh guacamole and salsa. The creamy guacamole, made with ripe avocados, lime juice, and a hint of garlic, contrasts wonderfully with the tangy and zesty salsa. You can opt for a traditional tomato-based salsa or go for a fruity version, such as mango salsa, for an extra punch of flavor.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted corn on the cob is a delightful addition. The sweet, smoky flavor of charred corn pairs wonderfully with the savory, spicy chicken. Try serving it with a dusting of chili powder, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a true Mexican flair.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): If you want to take it a step further, prepare Mexican street corn, or elote, as a side dish. Grilled corn brushed with mayonnaise, sprinkled with chili powder, and topped with crumbled cheese is a decadent treat that complements the chicken’s spices.
Salads with Lime and Cilantro: A light, refreshing salad with ingredients like mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions dressed with a zesty lime-cilantro dressing will add a bright contrast to the richness of the chicken. You can even throw in some avocado or a handful of tortilla chips for crunch.
Tortilla Chips: For something crunchy, serve tortilla chips alongside your Mexican chicken. They’re perfect for scooping up extra sauce, salsa, or guacamole, adding texture and a touch of indulgence to the meal.
Sautéed Vegetables: Sautéed bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are great veggie options that not only taste amazing but also add color and texture to the dish. You can lightly season them with cumin, paprika, and a dash of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Mexican-Style Potatoes: Roasted or mashed potatoes with a spicy kick can be a great side. Toss diced potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, garlic, and paprika before roasting them in the oven. They’ll turn golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that offers endless opportunities for customization and creativity. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try some fun variations, the beauty of this dish is its ability to be adapted to suit your preferences and ingredients you have at hand.

From swapping proteins and adding fruit for sweetness to changing up the spice levels, there’s a variation for every occasion. Proper storage techniques ensure you can enjoy leftovers for days to come, and when paired with the right sides, the meal becomes even more satisfying.

With its bold flavors, versatility, and ease of preparation, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether it’s a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a quick weekday meal, Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken will always be a hit.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken Recipe?

Mary Berry’s Mexican chicken recipe is a flavorful and simple dish that combines chicken with Mexican-inspired spices, herbs, and vegetables. The recipe typically includes ingredients like chicken breasts, tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder, all cooked together to create a hearty and satisfying meal.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken?

The cooking time for Mary Berry’s Mexican chicken recipe is usually around 40-45 minutes. This includes time for browning the chicken and simmering it with the spices and vegetables. It’s a relatively quick dish, making it ideal for a weeknight meal.

Can I Use Different Cuts Of Chicken For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts of chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks, instead of chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut. Dark meat like thighs may take a little longer to cook through, so adjust the time accordingly.

Is Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken Recipe Spicy?

The level of spice in Mary Berry’s Mexican chicken recipe can be adjusted to your preference. The recipe usually includes mild chili powder, but if you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even fresh chilies to intensify the heat.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry’s Mexican chicken recipe ahead of time. The dish can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.

It also freezes well, so you can make a larger batch and freeze it for future meals. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken?

Mary Berry’s Mexican chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with rice, either plain or cilantro-lime rice, for a hearty meal. You could also serve it with tortillas for wrapping, or a simple side salad with avocado and sour cream to balance the flavors.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian Or Vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe. Instead of chicken, you can use plant-based alternatives like tofu, tempeh, or a mix of beans and vegetables. The spices and other ingredients remain the same to maintain the Mexican flavor profile.

What Spices Are Used In Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken Recipe?

Mary Berry’s Mexican chicken recipe includes a blend of cumin, paprika, chili powder, and sometimes garlic powder. These spices help create a warm, savory, and slightly smoky flavor that complements the chicken and vegetables in the dish.

Can I Adjust The Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely!

One of the great things about Mary Berry’s Mexican chicken recipe is its flexibility. You can swap vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for other ingredients, such as zucchini or corn, depending on what you have on hand or your personal taste.

Is Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken Recipe Suitable For A Gluten-free Diet?

Yes, Mary Berry’s Mexican chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, such as store-bought spices or sauces, are labeled as gluten-free. As long as you avoid any gluten-containing products, this recipe should be safe for those with gluten sensitivities.