Mary Berry Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a delicious, light, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion, then Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is a must-try!

This recipe combines the crispiness of golden chicken escalopes with the cool, creamy, and tangy goodness of tzatziki sauce, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly and satisfies every time. Plus, with Mary Berry’s expert touch, you know you’re in for a tasty, foolproof meal!

Mary Berry Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki, you’ll need a balanced mix of fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious and satisfying dish. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:

For The Chicken Escalope

• Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish, chicken breasts should be boneless and skinless. You’ll need four medium-sized breasts to serve about four people. Make sure they’re pounded thin to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
• Plain Flour: This will be used to coat the chicken. The flour helps create a light, crispy exterior when frying, so be sure to use an even layer to get that golden, crispy finish.
• Eggs: Two large eggs, lightly beaten, will act as the binding agent for the breadcrumbs, allowing them to stick to the chicken. The egg helps achieve the signature crispiness and helps lock in the flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: You’ll need approximately 150g of fresh or panko breadcrumbs for the escalope. Panko will give you a light, airy texture, but fresh breadcrumbs can add a denser crust. Season the breadcrumbs with a bit of salt, pepper, and perhaps a pinch of paprika for added flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a nutty, savory flavor to the breadcrumbs. This is optional but highly recommended for added depth.
• Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil: For frying. The oil helps achieve the crispy texture and gives the chicken a lovely golden color. You’ll need enough to coat the bottom of your frying pan.

For The Tzatziki

• Greek Yogurt: This will form the creamy base of your tzatziki sauce. The richness of Greek yogurt, with its thicker consistency and tangy flavor, is perfect for balancing the crispy chicken.
• Cucumber: A fresh cucumber will add a cool crunch to the tzatziki. Peel it, deseed it, and grate it finely before squeezing out any excess water to keep the sauce from becoming too runny.
• Garlic: A couple of cloves of garlic will give the tzatziki its distinct punch. Make sure to finely chop or grate the garlic to release its full flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the yogurt, adding brightness to the sauce.
• Fresh Dill: Freshly chopped dill is the traditional herb used in tzatziki. It adds a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that complements the cool cucumber and creamy yogurt.
• Olive Oil: Just a drizzle of olive oil helps to round out the sauce, adding a silky texture and depth of flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning. Adjust the quantities to taste to balance the flavors of the yogurt, garlic, cucumber, and dill.

Equipment Needed

To prepare Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure the dish comes together seamlessly, with minimal hassle.

For The Chicken Escalope

• Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: This tool is crucial for flattening the chicken breasts evenly, which helps them cook quickly and achieve the ideal texture. If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan.
• Three Shallow Dishes: These will be used for the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture. They help with the breading process and keep everything organized.
• Frying Pan or Skillet: A large, non-stick frying pan or skillet is perfect for frying the chicken escalope. It ensures even heat distribution and prevents sticking.
• Tongs or a Spatula: For flipping the chicken and ensuring it doesn’t fall apart while cooking.
• Paper Towels: You’ll need these to drain excess oil from the fried chicken after cooking. This step helps keep the escalope crispy.
• Plate or Tray: For resting the escalope after it’s cooked.

For The Tzatziki

• Grater or Food Processor: To grate the cucumber finely. A food processor makes the job quicker, but a grater works perfectly well if you prefer a bit more control.
• Cheesecloth or Clean Cloth: To wrap the grated cucumber and squeeze out any excess moisture. This ensures your tzatziki isn’t too watery.
• Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl to combine all the tzatziki ingredients.
• Whisk or Spoon: For stirring the tzatziki together until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping fresh herbs like dill and garlic.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki

Now, let’s break down how to create this delicious dish step-by-step. This recipe balances the crispy, savory chicken with the cool, tangy tzatziki, and it’s straightforward enough for a weeknight meal.

Step 1: Prepare The Chicken

Start by prepping your chicken breasts. Place each breast between two sheets of cling film or parchment paper.

Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thick. Be careful not to tear the meat, just flatten it evenly.

Step 2: Coat The Chicken

Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the plain flour.

In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated parmesan, salt, and pepper.

Dredge each piece of chicken first in the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then dip it in the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly so it sticks well.

Step 3: Fry The Chicken

Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the pan.

Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Make The Tzatziki

While the chicken is frying, you can prepare the tzatziki. Grate the cucumber and wrap it in a clean cloth or cheesecloth.

Squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. In a mixing bowl, combine the strained cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well-combined. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can also blend it in a food processor.

Step 5: Serve

Once the chicken escalope is cooked and the tzatziki is ready, plate the chicken alongside a generous scoop of the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh dill or lemon wedges if desired, and enjoy the contrast of crispy, savory chicken with the cool, refreshing tzatziki.

Expert Tips

• Flatten Evenly: When pounding the chicken breasts, try to make them as even in thickness as possible. This ensures they cook uniformly, avoiding overcooked edges and undercooked centers.
• Season the Flour and Breadcrumbs: Don’t forget to season both the flour and breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, and any spices you like. A little bit of paprika or garlic powder can add an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the tzatziki ahead of time. In fact, it’s often better to let the flavors meld together for an hour or two in the fridge before serving.
• Use a Thermometer: To be sure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. Chicken breasts are best when they reach 165°F (75°C).
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary to keep the oil temperature consistent. This will help maintain that crispy texture.

Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is a delightful, fresh, and flavorful dish that perfectly balances crispy, golden chicken with a cool, creamy sauce. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal that works well for both casual dinners and special occasions.

With a few basic ingredients and some attention to detail, you can easily recreate this popular dish at home. The crispy escalope pairs beautifully with the refreshing tzatziki, making for a meal that’s both comforting and light. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just getting started, this recipe is accessible and guarantees a delicious result every time.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki

Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is a classic, combining the tenderness of golden-brown chicken with the cool, refreshing taste of the yogurt-based sauce. However, if you’re looking to add a bit of variety to this recipe, there are plenty of ways to switch things up while keeping the dish just as delightful. Below are a few easy recipe variations that will take this dish in exciting new directions:

1. Herbed Chicken Escalope: Instead of just seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper, try adding some finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the breadcrumb coating. This imparts extra flavor and makes for a fragrant twist. You can also mix herbs like oregano and parsley into the tzatziki for an added burst of flavor.

2. Spicy Chicken Escalope: For a bit of heat, consider adding chili flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper to your breadcrumb coating. A dash of hot sauce in your tzatziki or mixing a small amount of harissa or sriracha into the yogurt sauce can also give this dish a more intense flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy spice.

3. Vegetarian Option: If you’re craving a vegetarian take on this dish, swap the chicken for thinly sliced aubergine (eggplant). The process for coating and frying remains the same, and the soft, tender aubergine paired with the cool tzatziki provides a wonderfully satisfying dish.

4. Crispy Parmesan Chicken Escalope: For an extra layer of crunch and richness, add grated Parmesan cheese to your breadcrumb mix. This adds a delicious umami flavor that complements the lightness of the chicken and the tang of the tzatziki.

5. Lemon and Garlic Chicken: For a more zesty, aromatic version of the dish, add lemon zest and minced garlic to both the breadcrumb coating and the tzatziki. This variation highlights bright citrus and the depth of garlic, creating a more aromatic and flavor-packed meal.

6. Mediterranean Style Chicken: Enhance the tzatziki by adding finely chopped cucumber, olives, and roasted red peppers. This variation captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, adding texture and complexity to the creamy sauce. The chicken escalope remains the same but becomes an even heartier dish when paired with these additional flavors.

These variations allow you to enjoy Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki in different ways, making the recipe adaptable for every palate or mood you may have.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you’ve made Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki and are lucky enough to have leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Here are the best practices for storing the leftovers:

1. Storing the Chicken:
   The chicken escalope, once cooked, should be cooled to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, which can make the breading soggy. Place the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. It’s best to eat the leftover chicken within 2 to 3 days to maintain its crispness and flavor.

2. Storing the Tzatziki:
   Tzatziki can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container and keep it chilled. Tzatziki tends to separate as it sits, so give it a quick stir before serving again. If you’ve added extra ingredients to the tzatziki, such as olives or roasted vegetables, it’s best to consume them within a day or two.

3. Reheating the Chicken:
   When reheating the chicken escalope, aim to restore some of the crispiness. A great method is to reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the escalope. This helps retain the crunch and ensures that the chicken heats evenly. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the breading soggy.

4. Freezing:
   While it’s not ideal for every dish, you can freeze chicken escalope for longer storage. To freeze, wrap the cooled chicken escalope tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above. Tzatziki, however, does not freeze well because its texture changes once thawed, so it’s best consumed fresh.

By following these best practices, you can enjoy your chicken escalope leftovers while preserving the flavor and texture of the original dish.

What Goes Well With Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki

Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is a flavorful, balanced dish, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal even further. Here are some fantastic options to accompany the escalope:

1. Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach pairs wonderfully with the rich, crispy chicken. Add a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil to complement the freshness of the tzatziki. For a bit of sweetness, throw in some pomegranate seeds or apple slices.

2. Greek Salad: For a Mediterranean touch, pair the chicken escalope with a traditional Greek salad, complete with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, red onions, and a generous chunk of feta cheese. The salty brininess of the olives and feta works beautifully with the creamy, cool tzatziki.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes are the perfect side dish. The natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables balances out the savory flavors of the chicken. You could also include some roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.

4. Rice Pilaf: A light and aromatic rice pilaf, flavored with herbs like dill or parsley, provides a neutral yet flavorful base that complements the crispy chicken and cooling tzatziki. You could also incorporate pine nuts or toasted almonds into the pilaf for added texture.

5. Crispy Fries: If you want to stick with something more traditional, crispy golden fries are always a hit with chicken escalope. The crispiness and saltiness of the fries make for a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken and the cool, creamy tzatziki.

6. Pita Bread or Flatbreads: A warm, pillowy pita or flatbread is perfect for dipping into the tzatziki sauce. You could even make it a more substantial meal by wrapping the escalope in the bread and creating a sandwich-style dish.

7. Grilled Asparagus or Green Beans: For something a bit lighter, grilled asparagus or sautéed green beans bring a savory bite that contrasts with the creamy tzatziki and complements the chicken beautifully.

With any of these side dishes, you’ll be able to build a balanced and satisfying meal that enhances the deliciousness of the chicken escalope with tzatziki.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that combines crispy, tender chicken with a cool, refreshing yogurt-based sauce. Its versatility allows for plenty of variations-whether you prefer adding herbs, spicing it up, or trying a vegetarian option.

By following best practices for storing leftovers and pairing the dish with complementary sides, you can enjoy it in different ways each time. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a dish for a special occasion, Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is guaranteed to please and offer a satisfying, delicious meal every time.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki Recipe?

Mary Berry’s chicken escalope with tzatziki is a delicious dish that features breaded and pan-fried chicken escalope served with a cooling and tangy tzatziki sauce. The chicken is seasoned, coated in breadcrumbs, and cooked until golden brown, then paired with a refreshing yogurt-based tzatziki sauce made with cucumber, garlic, lemon, and dill.

How Do You Prepare The Chicken For Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope?

To prepare the chicken for this recipe, start by tenderizing chicken breasts to an even thickness. Then, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and other desired spices. Next, coat the chicken in flour, dip it in beaten egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs before frying it in hot oil or butter until golden and crispy.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or making your own using gluten-free bread. Additionally, ensure that any other ingredients such as sauces or condiments are also gluten-free.

What Is Tzatziki Sauce Made Of?

Tzatziki sauce is a Greek condiment made with strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs such as dill or mint. It’s often used as a dip or side dish, and its creamy texture and tangy flavor complement the crispy chicken escalope beautifully.

How Can I Make Tzatziki Sauce At Home For This Recipe?

To make tzatziki sauce at home, start by grating a cucumber and draining excess moisture. Then, mix the cucumber with Greek yogurt, a small clove of minced garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add finely chopped dill or mint and season with salt and pepper to taste.

What Type Of Chicken Should I Use For Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope?

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. They should be pounded to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Chicken thighs can also be used, but they will result in a slightly different texture.

Can I Bake The Chicken Instead Of Frying It?

Yes, you can bake the chicken escalope instead of frying it. To do so, preheat your oven to around 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.

What Should I Serve With Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or couscous. You can also serve it with extra tzatziki on the side or some pita bread for a Mediterranean-style meal.

How Long Does Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki Take To Prepare?

The recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare. This includes the time for breading and frying the chicken as well as making the tzatziki sauce. If you’re using pre-made tzatziki, it may take even less time.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare parts of the dish ahead of time. The tzatziki can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The chicken can be breaded ahead of time, but it’s best to fry it just before serving to ensure the coating remains crispy.