Mary Berry Preserved Lemon Chicken Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to elevate your chicken game, Mary Berry’s preserved lemon chicken recipe is an absolute must-try!

It combines the rich, savory flavors of tender chicken with the bright, tangy kick of preserved lemons, making each bite a burst of delicious complexity. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a cozy meal, this dish is sure to impress with its unique flavor profile and ease of preparation. Mary Berry, known for her classic British cooking style, adds a special twist here that will make your taste buds dance. It’s a recipe that perfectly balances vibrant citrus with succulent chicken, and it’s definitely worth giving a go!

Mary Berry Preserved Lemon Chicken Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken, you’ll need a combination of fresh and flavorful ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s both aromatic and rich in taste. This recipe features preserved lemons, a tangy, slightly salty ingredient that infuses the chicken with a distinctive Mediterranean flair. Here’s a detailed list of the essential ingredients:

1. Whole Chicken (or chicken parts) – Depending on your preference, you can use a whole chicken or chicken thighs, breasts, or drumsticks. The chicken is the star of this dish, so choosing high-quality, fresh chicken will ensure the flavors develop beautifully.

2. Preserved Lemons – The key ingredient in this dish, preserved lemons are lemons that have been salted and left to ferment, transforming them into a vibrant, tangy, and slightly floral component. Their briny and aromatic qualities add depth and brightness to the chicken.

3. Olive Oil – Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps to soften the chicken, while also adding a fruity, slightly peppery undertone that pairs wonderfully with the preserved lemons.

4. Garlic – Garlic brings a depth of flavor to the dish. It’s essential for providing a savory base that complements the preserved lemon’s tang and balances the chicken’s natural richness.

5. Fresh Herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) – Fresh herbs, particularly thyme or rosemary, work wonderfully with the preserved lemons. They add earthy and piney notes, enhancing the Mediterranean flavor profile of the dish.

6. Ground Cumin – Cumin imparts a warm, smoky flavor to the chicken. It complements the zesty preserved lemons and adds an aromatic touch that enriches the overall taste.

7. Ground Coriander – The citrusy, slightly sweet flavor of coriander is another layer of spice that balances the dish and brings a bright note that works perfectly with the preserved lemons.

8. Salt and Pepper – These basic seasoning staples are essential to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. The preserved lemons are already salty, so be sure to taste before adding too much salt.

9. Lemon Juice (optional) – If you want a more pronounced lemon flavor, fresh lemon juice can be added to amplify the tang and brighten up the dish even further.

Equipment Needed

When making Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken, having the right kitchen equipment will ensure that you get the best results. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Oven – This recipe typically requires roasting or baking the chicken, so an oven is essential to ensure that the chicken cooks through and develops a beautiful golden-brown exterior. Make sure to preheat the oven to the desired temperature before beginning.

2. Roasting Tray or Baking Dish – A large enough tray or baking dish is necessary for evenly spreading out the chicken, allowing the heat to circulate and cook the chicken perfectly. A roasting tray with a rack is ideal as it helps the chicken crisp up all around.

3. Sharp Knife – You’ll need a sharp knife to chop the preserved lemons, garlic, and herbs. A paring knife is useful for peeling and slicing the lemons, while a chef’s knife is ideal for mincing the garlic and herbs.

4. Measuring Spoons – For the spices, like cumin and coriander, measuring spoons ensure that you get the perfect balance of flavor without over- or under-seasoning the chicken.

5. Basting Brush (optional) – While not strictly necessary, a basting brush is helpful to apply the olive oil, lemon juice, or marinade over the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated for a crispy, golden finish.

6. Tongs or a Fork – Once your chicken is done cooking, tongs or a fork are useful to handle the hot chicken and move it from the tray to your serving platter.

7. Meat Thermometer (optional but recommended) – To make sure the chicken is perfectly cooked, a meat thermometer can give you peace of mind. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken

Making Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken is a step-by-step process that involves marinating the chicken and roasting it to perfection. The preserved lemons lend their bold, zesty flavor to the chicken, while the blend of spices enhances the dish’s complexity. Here’s how you can make it:

1. Prepare the Marinade – Start by cutting the preserved lemons into small pieces, discarding the seeds. Place them in a bowl. Add finely minced garlic, a sprinkle of cumin, coriander, and a generous amount of olive oil. You can also add fresh lemon juice for an extra citrus punch if desired. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

2. Marinate the Chicken – Take your chicken and, if using a whole chicken, use a sharp knife to loosen the skin slightly, making small pockets where the marinade can seep in. Coat the chicken generously with the marinade, ensuring the preserved lemon mixture gets into every crevice. If you have time, let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight in the refrigerator, for maximum flavor absorption.

3. Preheat the Oven – While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure that the heat is ready when you put the chicken in.

4. Roast the Chicken – Once marinated, place the chicken in your prepared roasting tray or baking dish. Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary to the tray to infuse more herbal aroma during the roasting process. Roast the chicken for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.

5. Baste the Chicken – Optionally, every 20 minutes or so, use a basting brush to spoon the marinade over the chicken as it roasts. This will keep the chicken moist and help develop a rich, flavorful crust.

6. Serve – Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before carving. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, couscous, or rice to soak up the delicious juices.

Expert Tips

• Use Fresh Preserved Lemons – While preserved lemons are a key ingredient, be sure to use fresh ones for a vibrant, aromatic flavor. Old or overly salty preserved lemons can overpower the dish, so make sure they’re balanced.

• Marinate Longer for Extra Flavor – If possible, marinate the chicken overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more time the preserved lemon flavor has to penetrate the meat, making it even more delicious.

• Adjust the Salt – Preserved lemons are salty, so be cautious when adding additional salt to the recipe. Taste the marinade first, and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

• Use Bone-In Chicken for Juicier Meat – If you’re using chicken breasts or thighs, opt for bone-in cuts to ensure juicier, more flavorful meat. Bone-in chicken holds moisture better during cooking and allows for a more tender result.

• Roast with Vegetables – Roasting vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or onions alongside the chicken can enhance the flavor. The vegetables will absorb the chicken’s juices, and their natural sweetness will complement the savory tang of the preserved lemons.

Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken is a culinary delight that transports your taste buds to the Mediterranean with every bite. The marriage of juicy chicken, tangy preserved lemons, aromatic herbs, and earthy spices creates a dish that’s full of flavor and perfectly balanced.

Whether you choose to serve it with couscous, rice, or roasted vegetables, this recipe is sure to impress guests or satisfy a simple weeknight craving. With a few expert tips and attention to detail, you can recreate this flavorful dish in your own kitchen, bringing a taste of summer and sunshine to your table.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken

Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken is a vibrant, tangy dish that balances savory flavors with the bright, citrusy notes of preserved lemons. It’s already delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe and customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some easy and creative variations to elevate your cooking experience.

1. Add a Mediterranean Twist:
If you want to enhance the Mediterranean flavors, consider adding a touch of olives or capers to the recipe. These ingredients complement the tangy preserved lemons beautifully, creating an even more savory and briny profile. You could also incorporate some sun-dried tomatoes or fresh basil, which will introduce additional layers of depth. For a full Mediterranean feast, serve the dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad.

2. Spice It Up:
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes can bring a new dimension to the chicken. Smoky paprika pairs particularly well with preserved lemons, giving the dish a warm, earthy undertone. If you like it spicy, toss in some finely chopped fresh chili or add a drizzle of harissa before serving. The spicy kick can contrast wonderfully with the tangy lemon flavor, adding an exciting contrast.

3. Make It a One-Pan Meal:
To simplify the recipe and reduce cleanup, turn it into a one-pan wonder by adding vegetables directly to the pan. Potatoes, carrots, and onions are classic choices that pair well with chicken. You can roast them alongside the chicken in the oven, allowing them to soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken and preserved lemons. For added richness, drizzle a little olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle some fresh thyme or rosemary on top before roasting.

4. Vegetarian Version:
If you’re looking for a vegetarian variation, preserved lemons also pair beautifully with roasted cauliflower or chickpeas. These ingredients soak up the citrusy, aromatic flavors of the preserved lemon, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. For the cauliflower, simply break it into florets and roast it until golden and tender. If you opt for chickpeas, sauté them with garlic and spices before adding the preserved lemons to create a flavorful plant-based dish.

5. Add a Sweet Element:
For an unexpected flavor contrast, try incorporating dried fruits like apricots or raisins. The sweetness from the dried fruit will balance the acidity of the preserved lemon and give the dish a lovely contrast. These fruits pair well when served alongside the chicken, adding both texture and a subtle sweetness that elevates the entire dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover Preserved Lemon Chicken can be just as delicious the next day when stored properly. To maintain the integrity of the dish’s flavors and texture, it’s essential to follow best practices for storing and reheating the leftovers. Here’s how to keep your meal fresh:

1. Refrigerating Leftovers:
Once you’ve finished your meal, ensure the chicken is cooled down to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy. Place the chicken in an airtight container to preserve its moisture and prevent any odors from affecting the flavors. Leftover preserved lemon chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

2. Freezing Leftovers:
If you have more leftovers than you can consume within a few days, freezing is a great option. To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will help lock in the flavors and keep the chicken juicy. When freezing, be mindful of how long you keep it – up to 2 months is ideal. To thaw, place the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, or use the microwave for quicker defrosting.

3. Reheating the Chicken:
Reheating the chicken properly is key to maintaining its texture. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C), and cover the chicken with foil to prevent it from drying out. Reheat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches your desired temperature. If using a microwave, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Microwave on medium heat in short intervals, checking after each, until heated through.

4. Storing Leftover Sauces and Vegetables:
If you’ve made a sauce or side dishes to go with the chicken, store them separately in airtight containers. This will allow you to reheat each component without affecting the others. For the sauce, consider simmering it on low heat with a splash of water or broth to help restore its consistency. Vegetables should be stored in a similar fashion – they can be reheated on the stove or in the oven, depending on your preference.

What Goes Well With Preserved Lemon Chicken

Preserved Lemon Chicken has a unique, zesty flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of side dishes, grains, and salads. Here are some options to consider for a well-rounded, satisfying meal:

1. Couscous or Rice:
A fluffy, light couscous or rice is an excellent base for the preserved lemon chicken. Couscous, with its slightly nutty flavor, is particularly suited to soak up the citrusy sauce. If you prefer rice, opt for a fragrant variety like basmati or jasmine. For an added touch, stir in some fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to complement the flavors of the chicken.

2. Fresh Salad:
A crisp, refreshing salad can help balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Try a simple cucumber, tomato, and red onion salad dressed in olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. You could also experiment with a grain-based salad, like quinoa or farro, mixed with fresh herbs and a lemony vinaigrette. This will give the dish a light, crunchy contrast while keeping the flavors fresh and vibrant.

3. Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted vegetables are a great choice, as their caramelized sweetness offers a lovely contrast to the tangy preserved lemon chicken. Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips are perfect for roasting and will add heartiness to the meal. You can season them with olive oil, garlic, and herbs like thyme or rosemary to tie everything together.

4. Hummus or Tzatziki:
For an extra layer of flavor, serve your preserved lemon chicken with a side of hummus or tzatziki. The creamy, tangy nature of both dips complements the chicken beautifully. Hummus made from chickpeas adds richness, while tzatziki, made from yogurt and cucumber, provides a cooling element that contrasts nicely with the zesty preserved lemon.

5. Flatbreads or Pita:
Warm, soft flatbreads or pita make a great accompaniment, allowing you to scoop up bits of chicken and sauce. The pillowy texture of the bread helps balance the acidic and savory elements of the dish. You can also use it to mop up any leftover sauce, ensuring you don’t miss out on the flavorful broth.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken is a timeless dish that offers layers of flavor, from the brightness of the preserved lemons to the rich depth of the chicken. Its versatility allows you to experiment with different spices, vegetables, and even make it a vegetarian option.

By storing leftovers properly, you can enjoy this dish for days, keeping the flavors intact and the chicken juicy. When it comes to what to pair with the dish, the possibilities are endless – from couscous and rice to vibrant salads and creamy dips. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight meal or serving it for a special occasion, Preserved Lemon Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken Recipe?

Mary Berry’s preserved lemon chicken recipe is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with the tangy, citrusy notes of preserved lemons, alongside aromatic spices. The dish typically includes ingredients like preserved lemons, garlic, ginger, olive oil, and herbs, offering a refreshing yet savory taste.

How Do You Make Preserved Lemons For Mary Berry’s Chicken Recipe?

To make preserved lemons for the recipe, cut fresh lemons into quarters, sprinkle them with salt, and pack them tightly into a jar. Let the jar sit for a few weeks, shaking it occasionally to ensure the lemons are submerged in their own juice. Once ready, the lemons will have a soft texture and an intensely tangy flavor, perfect for cooking.

Can I Use Fresh Lemons Instead Of Preserved Lemons In This Recipe?

While fresh lemons can be used as a substitute, they won’t provide the same depth of flavor as preserved lemons. The preserved lemons add a unique, fermented tanginess that is key to the recipe’s flavor profile. If using fresh lemons, you can add extra salt and a little lemon zest to mimic the preserved version.

What Kind Of Chicken Is Best For Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken Recipe?

Mary Berry’s recipe works well with bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks. The skin helps to retain moisture, ensuring the chicken stays tender while it absorbs the flavors of the preserved lemons and spices.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken Recipe In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance. The flavors actually develop more deeply if you marinate the chicken with the preserved lemons and spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking.

Afterward, store it in the fridge and then cook as usual. It can also be reheated the next day.

Is There A Substitute For The Spices In Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken Recipe?

If you don’t have some of the spices listed, you can experiment with alternatives. For example, cumin or coriander can replace some of the typical spices like ginger and cinnamon. However, using the original spice combination is recommended for the authentic flavor of the dish.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken?

Mary Berry’s preserved lemon chicken pairs wonderfully with couscous, rice, or roasted vegetables. The tangy and savory chicken complements a simple side like sautéed greens or a fresh salad, which balances the rich flavors.

Can I Cook Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken first to develop flavor, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the preserved lemons and other ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender and infused with the flavors.

How Long Should I Cook The Chicken In Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken Recipe?

The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken pieces. Typically, bone-in, skin-on chicken takes about 35-45 minutes to cook through in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Always check that the internal temperature has reached 75°C (165°F) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Preserved Lemon Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken once it’s cooked. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until piping hot.