Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur Recipe

The Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur is a hearty French-inspired dish that combines tender chicken with a rich tomato, mushroom, and wine-based sauce. It’s rustic, comforting, and full of depth — the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. Mary Berry’s version simplifies the classic technique, delivering the same delicious results with minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

What Is Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur?

Mary Berry’s Chicken Chasseur is a French-style braised chicken dish, also known as “Hunter’s Chicken.” It features browned chicken pieces simmered in a sauce made with tomatoes, mushrooms, herbs, and sometimes wine or stock. The slow cooking process ensures a tender texture and a deep, savoury flavour that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.

Also Try: Mary Berry Chicken Recipes For Dinner Party

Why This Recipe Is Worth Trying

• Comfort food at its best – Rich, warming, and full of flavour.
• Simple ingredients – Made from pantry staples with no fuss.
• Perfect for family meals – Loved by both kids and adults.
• One-pan dish – Easy cooking and even easier cleanup.
• Freezer-friendly – Tastes just as good reheated.

Essential Ingredients to Make Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur

• Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – 8 pieces
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Butter – 1 tbsp
• Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves – 3, minced
• Chestnut mushrooms – 200g, sliced
• Carrots – 2, diced
• Tomato purée – 1 tbsp
• Chopped tomatoes (tinned) – 400g
• Chicken stock – 300ml
• White wine (optional) – 100ml
• Fresh thyme – 1 tsp (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• Bay leaf – 1
• Salt and black pepper – to taste
• Fresh parsley – for garnish

(Optional: 1 tsp sugar if the sauce tastes too acidic)

Handy Kitchen Tools for Best Results

• Large casserole dish or deep frying pan
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife and chopping board
• Tongs
• Measuring jug
• Serving dish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur

Step 1: Prepare and brown the chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

In the same pan, add onions, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and lightly browned, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken.

Step 3: Add flavour to the sauce

Stir in the tomato purée, cooking for 1 minute to deepen the flavour. Pour in the chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, and white wine (if using). Mix well and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add herbs and simmer

Add the thyme and bay leaf, then return the chicken thighs to the pan. Cover with a lid and simmer gently over low heat for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Adjust and serve

Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Step 6: Serve hot

Serve your Chicken Chasseur with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Sauce too thin – Simmered uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.
• Chicken not tender – Cooked on low heat for longer until soft.
• Too acidic – Added a teaspoon of sugar to balance the tomatoes.
• Overpowering wine flavour – Used less wine and more stock for a milder taste.

Healthier Version of Mary Berry’s Chicken Chasseur

• Use skinless chicken thighs to reduce fat.
• Replace butter with a drizzle of olive oil.
• Choose low-sodium chicken stock for a lighter sauce.
• Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or courgettes for more nutrition.

Ingredient Substitutions for Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur

• White wine – Replace with more chicken stock or apple juice.
• Mushrooms – Use button mushrooms or omit for a smoother sauce.
• Tomato purée – Substitute with ketchup for a milder sweetness.
• Thyme – Use rosemary or Italian herbs for variation.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur

• Mashed potatoes – Soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
• Steamed rice – Light and easy option for busy nights.
• Crusty bread – Ideal for dipping into the sauce.
• Buttered noodles – Adds a comforting touch.
• Roasted vegetables – Complement the savoury depth of the dish.

Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur

• Brown the chicken well – It adds flavour and colour to the sauce.
• Don’t rush the simmering – Slow cooking develops the richness.
• Use chicken thighs – They stay moist and juicy.
• Deglaze the pan – Use wine or stock to lift flavour from the base.
• Add fresh herbs last – Preserves their aroma and colour.
• Adjust acidity – A little sugar or cream balances the tomato base.
• Serve immediately – Best enjoyed while hot and aromatic.

Creative Ways to Customize Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur

• Add olives or capers – For a Mediterranean twist.
• Creamy version – Stir in a splash of double cream before serving.
• Spicy touch – Add chili flakes or smoked paprika.
• Vegetable-loaded – Add courgettes, peas, or spinach for variety.
• One-pot pasta version – Toss cooked pasta directly into the sauce.
• Slow cooker method – Cook on low for 6–7 hours for hands-free convenience.

Storing Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur the Right Way

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze – Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight – Reheat gently on the stove.
• Avoid boiling – Keeps the chicken tender and sauce creamy.

How to Reheat Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur (If Needed)

• Stovetop – Reheat over low heat for 10 minutes, adding a splash of stock if thick.
• Microwave – Heat covered for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• From frozen – Defrost overnight and reheat as usual.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: ~410 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugars: 5g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g

Other Popular Chicken Recipes

• Mary Berry Coronation Chicken
• Mary Berry Chicken Casserole
• Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken
• Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala
• Mary Berry Chicken Marbella

Print

FAQs

How do I thicken the sauce for Chicken Chasseur?

If your sauce is too thin, remove the lid and let it simmer uncovered for an extra 5–10 minutes to reduce naturally. You can also stir in a teaspoon of tomato purée or a small amount of cornflour mixed with water to achieve a richer, thicker consistency.

Can I make Chicken Chasseur without wine?

Yes, you can replace the wine with extra chicken stock or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version. The sauce will still be flavorful and aromatic, as the herbs, garlic, and tomato base provide plenty of depth.

Why is my Chicken Chasseur sauce too acidic?

Sometimes canned tomatoes can make the sauce slightly tangy. To fix this, add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the flavours without overpowering the dish’s savoury richness.

Can I prepare Chicken Chasseur in advance?

Absolutely. Chicken Chasseur tastes even better the next day as the flavours develop over time. Cool it completely after cooking, refrigerate for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

Wrapping It Up

The Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur is the definition of rustic comfort — a classic French-inspired dish made simple and approachable. With its tender chicken, rich tomato-based sauce, and aromatic herbs, it’s a dish that feels both homely and refined. Serve it with your favourite sides, and you’ll have a hearty, flavourful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings in.