This traybake is a one-pan chicken dish inspired by lightly spiced, aromatic flavours rather than heavy heat. Chicken pieces are roasted with spices, garlic, and citrus, creating a fragrant, savoury meal with minimal preparation. Mary Berry’s approach keeps the recipe straightforward, focusing on good ingredients and correct roasting rather than complicated steps.
Chicken thighs or drumsticks – 1 kg, skin-on
Onion – 2 medium, thickly sliced
Garlic cloves – 4, crushed
Lemon – 1, sliced
Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander – 1 teaspoon
Paprika – 1 teaspoon
Turmeric – ½ teaspoon
Honey – 1 tablespoon
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Fresh coriander or parsley – to garnish
Preheat the oven – Set the oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
Prepare the chicken – Pat the chicken dry with kitchen paper and place it in a large bowl.
Mix the marinade – Add olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, honey, salt, and black pepper to the chicken. Mix well until evenly coated.
Prepare the tray – Scatter the sliced onions and crushed garlic over the base of a roasting tray.
Arrange the chicken – Place the chicken pieces skin-side up on top of the onions.
Add lemon – Tuck the lemon slices around the chicken.
Roast uncovered – Roast for 45–50 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
Finish and rest – Remove from the oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish – Sprinkle with fresh coriander or parsley just before serving.