Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful dish, these Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs are a perfect choice. With zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and tender chicken thighs, this dish strikes the right balance between freshness and richness. The recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

What is Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs?

Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs is a dish where bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are marinated and cooked with lemon, garlic, and herbs. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, with a crispy golden skin that’s bursting with citrusy, garlicky flavors. It’s a versatile recipe that pairs well with various side dishes, making it a great option for a complete meal.

Other Popular Recipes

• Air Fryer Lemon Chicken
• Jamie Oliver Tandoori Chicken
• Mary Berry Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Bursting with flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a deliciously fragrant dish.
• Minimal prep: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a quick recipe to prepare.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a dinner party, this recipe fits any occasion.
• Healthy option: The use of fresh ingredients like lemon and herbs makes this a light and nutritious meal.
• Budget-friendly: Chicken thighs are affordable and packed with flavor.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – for juicy, flavorful meat.
• 2 lemons – zest and juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves – crushed for extra depth.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – for crisping the chicken and adding richness.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – adds an earthy note.
• Salt and pepper – to taste, for seasoning the chicken.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – for garnish and color.

Equipment

• Baking dish – large enough to hold the chicken thighs in a single layer.
• Zester – to zest the lemons.
• Garlic press – for crushing the garlic.
• Tongs – for handling the chicken thighs.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat the oven

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. This ensures the chicken will cook evenly and the skin will crisp up.

Step 2: Prepare the marinade

• In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Step 3: Marinate the chicken thighs

• Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up. Pour the lemon marinade over the chicken, ensuring the thighs are well-coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you have time, to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Step 4: Bake the chicken thighs

• Place the marinated chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F).

Step 5: Serve

• Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs

• Roasted vegetables: A side of roasted carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers complements the citrusy chicken perfectly.
• Rice or quinoa: Serve the chicken over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious lemony juices.
• Couscous: A light and fluffy side that pairs well with the tangy chicken.
• Green beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a nice crunch.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes balance the bright lemon flavors.
• Garlic bread: Use garlic bread to mop up the flavorful juices from the chicken.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs

• Marinate for longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the fridge.
• Use fresh lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest will give you the best, most vibrant flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure the chicken thighs have enough space in the dish so they can crisp up evenly.
• Baste halfway through: For extra flavor, baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking.
• Crisp under the grill: If you want even crispier skin, place the chicken under the grill for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs

• Spicy lemon chicken: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a kick of heat.
• Herb-infused chicken: Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Lemon and honey glaze: Drizzle a little honey over the chicken in the last 10 minutes of baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
• Garlic lemon chicken: Increase the garlic to 5-6 cloves for a stronger garlic flavor.
• Citrus chicken: Use a mix of lemon and orange juice for a sweeter, more complex citrus flavor.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Place cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Mason jars: Store portioned leftovers in mason jars for easy reheating and meal prep.
• Vacuum seal: Vacuum seal the cooked chicken to preserve freshness and extend its shelf life.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs

• Oven: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to keep the skin crispy.
• Microwave: Heat in the microwave for a few minutes, though the skin may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil to maintain moisture and crispness.
• Air fryer: Use an air fryer to reheat for a few minutes for a quick and crispy result.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs Healthier?

• Use skinless chicken thighs: Remove the skin before marinating to reduce the fat content.
• Reduce the oil: Use less olive oil or opt for a cooking spray to lower the calorie content.
• Add more vegetables: Roast additional vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or courgettes in the same pan for added fiber and nutrients.
• Cut back on salt: Reduce the amount of salt and enhance flavor with more fresh herbs and lemon zest.
• Use leaner cuts: You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner version.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs in Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs. However, since chicken breasts are leaner, they may cook faster, so reduce the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to prevent them from drying out. You can also cover the breasts with foil to retain moisture while baking.

How long should I marinate chicken thighs for maximum flavor?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 15-30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours in the fridge will allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.

Can I make Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, simply bake as instructed, and the dish will come out flavorful and fresh.

How do I know when chicken thighs are fully cooked?

Chicken thighs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). You can check this using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced.

Final Words

These Mary Berry Lemon Chicken Thighs are a perfect blend of simplicity and bold flavors. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s full of zest and tenderness, ideal for a casual dinner or a more formal gathering. The juicy chicken combined with the tangy lemon and fragrant herbs makes this recipe a go-to for anyone looking to impress with little prep time.

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