Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Recipe

Mary Berry’s Lemon Chicken is a bright and flavourful dish that combines tender chicken with a zesty lemon sauce. It’s simple, elegant, and ideal for both family dinners and entertaining guests. The refreshing citrus notes paired with garlic and herbs make this recipe light yet satisfying, offering a perfect balance between tangy and savoury flavours.

What is Mary Berry Lemon Chicken?

Mary Berry’s Lemon Chicken is a pan-seared or oven-baked chicken dish coated in a silky lemon sauce made with fresh lemon juice, stock, and butter. It’s a versatile British-style recipe influenced by Mediterranean flavours, known for its simplicity and vibrant taste.

Other Mary Berry Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Vegetarian Quiche
• Mary Berry Hot Cross Buns
• Mary Berry Thai Chicken Curry
• Mary Berry Panang Chicken

Why This Recipe is Worth Trying

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Fresh and zesty – The lemon adds a bright flavour.
• Versatile – Works well with rice, pasta, or salad.
• Light and healthy – Lower in fat but full of taste.
• Perfect for all occasions – Great for both casual and formal meals.

Essential Ingredients to Make Mary Berry Lemon Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 200ml chicken stock
• Juice and zest of 2 lemons
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• 2 tbsp double cream (optional, for creamier sauce)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Handy Kitchen Tools for Best Results

• Large frying pan or skillet
• Sharp knife and chopping board
• Zester or grater
• Lemon juicer
• Wooden spoon

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

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the lemon sauce

In the same pan, add butter and garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the chicken stock, lemon juice, zest, mustard, and honey. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Thicken the sauce

Let the sauce reduce for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. If you prefer a creamy version, stir in the double cream and simmer for another minute.

Step 4: Combine chicken and sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, spoon the sauce over the top, and cook for 2 more minutes to absorb the flavours.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Too sour sauce – Balanced it with a touch of honey for sweetness.
• Dry chicken – Cooked on moderate heat and avoided overcooking.
• Thin sauce – Let it simmer longer to thicken naturally.

Healthier Ways to Make Mary Berry Lemon Chicken

• Use olive oil instead of butter to reduce saturated fat.
• Skip the cream for a lighter version.
• Serve with steamed greens or quinoa instead of potatoes.
• Reduce salt by using low-sodium stock.

Ingredient Substitutions for Mary Berry Lemon Chicken

• Chicken breasts → Chicken thighs for juicier texture.
• Dijon mustard → Wholegrain mustard for a milder taste.
• Double cream → Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Parsley → Fresh basil or thyme for different herbs.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Lemon Chicken

• Steamed rice – Absorbs the lemon sauce beautifully.
• Roasted vegetables – Adds colour and crunch.
• Garlic mashed potatoes – Creamy and comforting side.
• Green salad – Keeps the meal light and refreshing.
• Couscous or quinoa – Perfect for a Mediterranean twist.

Expert Tips for Lemon Chicken Success

• Don’t overcook the chicken – It stays tender when cooked just until done.
• Use fresh lemons – Bottled juice lacks brightness.
• Deglaze the pan – Scrape the browned bits for added flavour.
• Balance acidity – Adjust lemon and honey to taste.
• Serve immediately – The sauce thickens as it cools.

Creative Ways to Customize Lemon Chicken

• Add capers or olives for a Mediterranean kick.
• Mix in cream and Parmesan for a rich lemon cream sauce.
• Stir in spinach or asparagus for added greens.
• Add a dash of white wine for depth.
• Top with toasted almonds for crunch.

Storing Lemon Chicken the Right Way

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove to maintain moisture.
• Avoid freezing creamy versions, as the sauce can separate.

How to Reheat Lemon Chicken (If Needed)

• Stovetop: Warm on low heat with a splash of stock or water for 4–5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 2 minutes at medium power, stirring halfway.
• From fridge: Bring to room temperature before reheating for even results.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: ~370 kcal
• Protein: 33 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Fibre: 1 g
• Sugar: 3 g

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FAQs

How do you make lemon chicken tender and juicy?

To keep lemon chicken tender, don’t overcook it. Sear the chicken on medium heat until golden, then simmer it gently in the sauce for a few minutes. Resting the chicken for a short time before serving also helps retain moisture.

Why is my lemon sauce too sour?

If your lemon sauce tastes too sour, balance it by adding a teaspoon of honey or a splash of cream. These ingredients soften the acidity while keeping the fresh citrus flavour intact.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

Fresh lemons give the best flavour, but bottled juice can work in a pinch. Use about 3 tablespoons of bottled juice per lemon, and taste the sauce as you go to avoid overpowering acidity.

How do you thicken lemon chicken sauce naturally?

Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also whisk in a small teaspoon of flour or cornstarch slurry if you prefer a creamier texture

Wrapping It Up

Mary Berry’s Lemon Chicken is a simple yet flavourful recipe that brings brightness to your dinner table. The tender chicken paired with zesty lemon sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. With minimal effort and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a perfect mix of comfort and elegance — a must-try for any home cook.