Mary Berry Glazed Chicken With Cucumber Salsa Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines deliciously juicy chicken with a refreshing twist, then Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken with Cucumber Salsa is an absolute must-try. This dish perfectly balances the rich, savory flavors of the chicken with the crisp, zesty freshness of the cucumber salsa.

Not only does it look beautiful on the plate, but it’s also a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and easy-to-follow steps!.

Mary Berry Glazed Chicken With Cucumber Salsa Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken with Cucumber Salsa is a delightful, vibrant dish that brings together juicy, tender chicken paired with a refreshing cucumber salsa, all crowned by a glossy, flavorful glaze. The combination of ingredients creates a beautiful balance of savory and fresh elements, with a slight tanginess and richness that’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need to recreate this dish:

For The Chicken Glaze

• Honey: Provides natural sweetness to counterbalance the savory notes of the chicken, creating a lovely glaze. It also helps to caramelize the chicken when cooking, giving it a rich, golden finish.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor and salty richness to the glaze. Soy sauce is a crucial component of the sauce, adding complexity to the flavor profile.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers a pungent kick that complements the honey and soy sauce, bringing aromatic warmth to the dish.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a subtle spicy heat and brightness to the glaze, elevating the overall flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings acidity and balance to the sweetness of the honey, creating a more rounded, zesty flavor that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
• Olive Oil: This provides a smooth, neutral base for the glaze and aids in marinating and cooking the chicken without overpowering other flavors.
• Mustard: Mustard, often Dijon, adds a slight tang and depth to the glaze, marrying the sweet, salty, and spicy elements.

For The Cucumber Salsa

• Cucumber: Fresh cucumber is the star of the salsa. Its crisp texture and cooling properties provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, warm chicken. It’s best when diced small to absorb all the dressing and flavors.
• Red Onion: The red onion adds a mild bite, offering a subtle sharpness that complements the cucumber without overpowering it.
• Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring juiciness and a touch of acidity, balancing the mild sweetness of the cucumbers and the savory chicken.
• Fresh Herbs (like Mint and Coriander): Fresh herbs add brightness and flavor to the salsa, with mint contributing a cool, refreshing note and coriander offering a slightly citrusy, earthy taste.
• Lime Juice: Lime juice provides the necessary acidity and zest, enhancing the freshness of the salsa and tying the ingredients together.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps to bring the salsa together, lending a rich, smooth texture that harmonizes all the flavors.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken with Cucumber Salsa, having the right equipment will ensure everything runs smoothly and that your dish turns out perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Baking Tray: A sturdy baking tray is essential for roasting the chicken, allowing heat to circulate evenly around the meat for a golden, caramelized finish. Choose a tray that’s large enough to fit your chicken pieces comfortably.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is needed to combine the glaze ingredients. It’s also helpful for marinating the chicken before cooking. The bowl should be deep enough to allow you to toss the chicken in the glaze without splashing.
• Whisk: A small whisk is perfect for combining the glaze ingredients, ensuring that everything is well-blended and smooth.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for chopping vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and onions for the salsa. It ensures clean, precise cuts, which are especially important when making a delicate salsa.
• Cutting Board: A good cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping your veggies and herbs.
• Grater or Microplane: For finely grating the ginger and garlic, you’ll want a grater or microplane. This ensures that the ingredients are finely minced, which is essential for creating a smooth glaze.
• Spoon: A large spoon is handy for mixing the salsa together, especially if you want to fold in the herbs and gently toss the vegetables.
• Roasting Pan or Skillet: If you prefer cooking the chicken on the stovetop, a roasting pan or heavy skillet will work well for searing the chicken before finishing it in the oven or under the broiler.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken With Cucumber Salsa

Step 1: Preparing The Glaze

Start by preparing the chicken glaze. In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, lemon juice, olive oil, and mustard.

Ensure that all ingredients are well-combined into a smooth, glossy mixture. This glaze will not only coat the chicken but also infuse it with layers of flavor. The sweetness of the honey, the saltiness of the soy sauce, and the aromatic punch of garlic and ginger will make the chicken irresistibly tasty.

Step 2: Marinating The Chicken

Place your chicken pieces-whether it’s chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks-into a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the prepared glaze over the chicken, making sure each piece is generously coated.

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes (but for best results, marinate it for a few hours or even overnight). This helps the flavors to really penetrate the meat, making each bite flavorful and juicy.

Step 3: Preparing The Cucumber Salsa

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the fresh cucumber salsa. Start by dicing the cucumber into small cubes.

Then, finely chop the red onion and tomatoes. If you’re using herbs like mint or coriander, chop them up as well. Place all these ingredients into a mixing bowl.

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, and add a splash of olive oil. Season the salsa with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss everything gently to combine. The result should be a light, refreshing mixture that will perfectly complement the rich, glazed chicken.

Step 4: Cooking The Chicken

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or set your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re roasting the chicken, transfer it to the baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Cook the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). If you prefer, you can finish the chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to get a nice, crispy finish.

Alternatively, for a more intense caramelization, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear both sides of the chicken until golden brown, then transfer it to the oven to finish cooking. Be sure to baste the chicken with any leftover glaze during the cooking process for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serving

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, serve it on a platter and spoon the refreshing cucumber salsa over the top or serve it on the side for guests to add themselves. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Expert Tips

• Marinate for Longer: If you have the time, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in an even more flavorful and tender chicken.
• Customize the Salsa: The salsa is highly customizable-if you prefer a little more heat, add a finely chopped chili pepper. If you’re not a fan of mint, basil can also work well as an alternative.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: For perfect chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness, so be sure not to leave it in the oven too long.
• Make Extra Glaze: If you’re someone who loves extra sauce, consider doubling the glaze ingredients. You can drizzle extra glaze over the chicken once it’s cooked for even more flavor.

Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken with Cucumber Salsa is the perfect blend of savory and fresh, making it ideal for a light dinner or an impressive centerpiece at a gathering. The glossy, sweet-savory glaze envelops the chicken, giving it a delectable richness, while the refreshing cucumber salsa balances out the flavors with its crisp, zesty crunch.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to delight. With its bright, flavorful ingredients and simple cooking process, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken With Cucumber Salsa

Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken with Cucumber Salsa is a delightful dish, full of vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. While the original recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of easy variations you can try to make it even more versatile, or simply to match your personal taste preferences. Here are a few fun ways to mix things up:

1. Add a Spice Kick:
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try incorporating chili flakes or fresh chili into the glaze or salsa. For the glaze, you could add a dash of sriracha sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For the salsa, finely chop a red chili or add a splash of hot sauce. This adds an exciting spicy contrast to the sweetness of the glaze and the refreshing coolness of the cucumber.

2. Swap the Protein:
Chicken is the star of the original recipe, but you can switch it up to cater to dietary preferences or simply for variety. Try using turkey breasts or pork tenderloin as an alternative to chicken. For a vegetarian option, grilled tofu or halloumi can also take center stage, offering a hearty bite and the ability to absorb the rich flavors of the glaze.

3. Experiment with the Salsa:
The cucumber salsa is fresh and cooling, but it can be adapted in a number of ways. Instead of cucumber, you might swap in diced mango or pineapple for a sweeter, tropical twist. Alternatively, you could try using avocado for creaminess or tomatoes for a juicy and tangy base. Adding fresh herbs like mint or cilantro can further elevate the freshness of the salsa, making it even more vibrant.

4. Glaze Variations:
Mary Berry’s glaze is a wonderful balance of sweet and savory, but you could switch up the ingredients to match different flavors. For example, replace the honey with maple syrup or brown sugar for a deeper sweetness. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce for a richer, umami-packed finish. If you’re in the mood for something smoky, try adding a bit of smoked paprika to the glaze for a subtle depth.

5.

Go Low and Slow:
For those who love slow-cooked flavors, why not try slow-roasting the chicken instead of grilling or pan-frying?

Slow-cooked chicken becomes tender and juicy, allowing the flavors of the glaze to really soak into the meat. Once the chicken is nearly done, top it with the cucumber salsa and return it to the oven for a quick finish.

By incorporating one or more of these variations, you can create a unique spin on Mary Berry’s dish each time, keeping the recipe exciting and adaptable to whatever you’re craving.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When it comes to storing leftovers of Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken with Cucumber Salsa, it’s important to do so in a way that preserves both the taste and texture of the dish. Here’s how you can best store and enjoy leftovers:

1. Storing the Chicken:
The glazed chicken should be stored separately from the cucumber salsa to maintain the freshness of the salsa and prevent the chicken from becoming soggy. Place the cooled chicken pieces in an airtight container. Ideally, the chicken should be consumed within 2 to 3 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze the chicken. To do so, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

2. Storing the Cucumber Salsa:
Cucumber salsa has a high moisture content, so it doesn’t hold up as well for long periods. Store the salsa in a separate airtight container, and try to consume it within 1-2 days. The cucumber will lose its crunch after a while, so it’s best to enjoy the salsa while it’s fresh. If you want to extend its shelf life, you could try making the salsa with firmer vegetables like bell peppers or carrots instead of cucumber. This might help it last a bit longer.

3. Reheating the Chicken:
When reheating the chicken, avoid using a microwave for best results, as it can dry out the meat. Instead, reheat it gently in the oven at a low temperature (about 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, basting it with some extra glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.

4. Keep the Glaze Separate:
If you have leftover glaze, it’s a good idea to store it separately as well. This can be refrigerated for up to a week and used for future meals. Simply reheat it gently when ready to use, and it’ll bring back that rich, sweet-savory flavor to any dish.

By properly storing your leftovers, you can enjoy this delicious meal on another day, still packed with flavor and freshness.

What Goes Well With Glazed Chicken With Cucumber Salsa

The beauty of Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken with Cucumber Salsa lies in its balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. To complement the dish and make it a complete meal, consider pairing it with sides and drinks that enhance its flavors. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: The richness of coconut milk in the rice adds a creamy, slightly sweet contrast to the glaze of the chicken, making for a comforting side that perfectly balances the dish.
• Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus work wonderfully alongside the chicken. Their smokiness complements the sweetness of the glaze and adds an extra layer of depth.
• Quinoa or Couscous: Both are light, fluffy grains that pair well with the chicken’s vibrant flavors. You could prepare them with a bit of lemon zest and fresh herbs to add brightness and elevate the meal.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a hearty, earthy element that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the chicken glaze, offering a more substantial side to complete the meal.

2. Salads

• Greek Salad: A Mediterranean-style salad with tomatoes, olives, red onions, and feta cheese offers a briny contrast to the sweetness of the chicken and the refreshing salsa.
• Arugula and Parmesan Salad: Arugula’s peppery bite, combined with shaved Parmesan and a lemon vinaigrette, provides a light, tangy side that cuts through the richness of the chicken glaze.

3. Drinks

• White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the chicken. These wines have enough acidity to complement the richness of the dish while enhancing the fresh notes of the salsa.
• Iced Tea with Mint: For a non-alcoholic option, serve iced tea with a sprig of mint. The herbal notes of the mint echo the freshness of the cucumber salsa, creating a refreshing pairing.
• Sparkling Water with Lime: A sparkling water with a squeeze of lime offers a zesty, effervescent contrast that cleanses the palate between bites of the flavorful chicken.

By carefully selecting sides and drinks that balance the sweet and savory elements of the chicken and salsa, you can create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken with Cucumber Salsa is a delightful dish that captures a perfect balance of flavors. Its easy-to-follow recipe can be adjusted to suit various tastes, whether you want to spice it up, swap out proteins, or try different salsa ingredients.

The best practices for storing leftovers ensure you can enjoy this dish long after it’s been served, while the right side dishes and beverages elevate it to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, this dish is a versatile and impressive option that never disappoints. With a few small tweaks and thoughtful pairings, you’ll be able to savor the deliciousness of Mary Berry’s creation in endless ways.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken With Cucumber Salsa?

To make Mary Berry’s glazed chicken with cucumber salsa, you will need chicken breasts or thighs, honey, soy sauce, garlic, fresh ginger, olive oil, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, lime, and a touch of vinegar. The recipe also calls for some seasoning like salt and pepper.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken With Cucumber Salsa?

The entire recipe takes around 35-45 minutes. This includes 10-15 minutes of prep time and 20-30 minutes of cooking time, depending on the thickness of the chicken and your oven.

Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead Of Chicken Breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They will provide a slightly juicier result and have a richer flavor, making them a great alternative.

Can I Make The Glaze Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time. Simply mix the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready, just glaze the chicken before cooking.

Is There A Substitute For Soy Sauce In This Recipe?

Yes, if you need a substitute for soy sauce, you can use tamari (for a gluten-free version), coconut aminos, or a simple homemade mixture of balsamic vinegar with a little salt.

What Is Cucumber Salsa, And How Do I Make It?

Cucumber salsa is a refreshing side dish made with finely diced cucumber, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s typically seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. It’s a perfect accompaniment to the glazed chicken, adding crunch and freshness.

Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

Yes, you can add a little heat to the dish by incorporating finely chopped chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the cucumber salsa. You can also add a small amount of chili powder or sriracha to the glaze if you prefer extra spice.

Is This Recipe Suitable For Meal Prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. The glazed chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, and the cucumber salsa can be kept fresh for 1-2 days. However, it’s best to store the salsa separately from the chicken to maintain its crispness.

Can I Cook The Chicken On The Grill Instead Of In The Oven?

Absolutely!

You can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. Simply brush the glaze on the chicken while grilling, making sure to cook it through and baste with extra glaze during the cooking process to keep it juicy.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Glazed Chicken With Cucumber Salsa?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as rice (white or brown), roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or even crispy potatoes. The refreshing cucumber salsa complements the chicken’s sweetness, making any side a perfect match.