Mary Berry's Sticky Chicken Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken is a savory, slightly sweet dish that has become a favorite for both casual dinners and more elaborate gatherings. Renowned for her ability to create comforting yet sophisticated recipes, Mary Berry brings together bold flavors with her Sticky Chicken, transforming an ordinary chicken recipe into something truly irresistible.

The dish gets its name from the luscious, glossy sauce that coats the chicken, turning it sticky and rich. It combines the savory depth of soy sauce, the sweetness of honey, and the zesty kick of fresh ingredients like garlic and ginger. When the chicken is baked, the glaze becomes a caramelized coating, making the skin perfectly crispy while the meat remains tender and juicy. Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken is all about balance-sweet, salty, and tangy-bringing out the best in the chicken, whether you serve it with rice, vegetables, or even a crisp salad.

This dish stands out for its versatility: it’s simple enough for a weekday meal but impressive enough for a dinner party. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit your tastes.

Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken, you’ll need a selection of ingredients that come together in a mouthwatering symphony. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Pieces (Bone-in, skin-on preferred): Typically, Mary Berry’s recipe uses chicken thighs or drumsticks because these cuts remain juicy during cooking. However, you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, though they might not hold onto the sauce as well.
Soy Sauce: The umami-rich base of the sauce. Soy sauce adds saltiness and depth to the flavor, making it essential for achieving that savory punch in the glaze.
Honey: Honey provides the sticky, sweet element of the dish, which balances out the saltiness of the soy sauce and adds a rich, caramelized finish as it cooks.
Garlic (fresh or minced): Garlic is a must in any sticky chicken recipe, giving it that aromatic fragrance and savory flavor. Fresh garlic or pre-minced garlic work equally well.
Ginger: Fresh ginger is used for its zingy, slightly peppery taste. It adds a wonderful brightness to the dish and contrasts with the honey’s sweetness.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice helps cut through the sweetness and brings a touch of acidity to the dish. It also brightens the glaze and helps the flavors pop.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to cook the chicken and add richness to the sauce. It also helps to ensure the chicken gets golden and crispy while roasting.
Seasoning (Salt and Pepper): Basic seasoning is essential to enhance the flavors. A pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper will help balance the dish.
Fresh Herbs (Optional): A sprinkle of fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add a fragrant finish to the dish just before serving. Fresh herbs also add a pop of color to the finished plate.

Equipment Needed

The equipment for Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken is relatively simple and doesn’t require any specialized tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Roasting Tin or Baking Tray: A large, shallow roasting tin or baking tray is needed to cook the chicken and catch all the flavorful sauce as it cooks. Ideally, you want the chicken pieces to have enough space to roast evenly without crowding.
Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a bowl to mix the sauce ingredients before drizzling them over the chicken. A medium-sized mixing bowl is perfect for combining the soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and lemon juice.
Basting Brush (optional): If you want to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the glaze, a basting brush can be useful for brushing the sauce over the chicken halfway through cooking.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accuracy, measuring spoons and cups are important for portioning out the ingredients, especially when balancing the sweet and savory elements like honey and soy sauce.
Tongs or a Fork: You’ll need tongs or a fork to turn the chicken pieces during roasting to ensure an even golden-brown color on both sides.
Oven: A preheated oven is essential to bake the chicken to perfection. The oven should be set to around 200°C (400°F), ensuring that the chicken cooks through while developing that signature sticky glaze.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken

Now, let’s break down the steps to create this mouthwatering dish:

Prepare the Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place your chicken pieces, skin-side up, on a roasting tin or baking tray. Drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken to help it crisp up in the oven. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix the Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, grated or minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until the honey dissolves into the soy sauce and the mixture is smooth.
Coat the Chicken: Pour the sauce over the chicken pieces, making sure they are well coated. You can use a spoon or a basting brush to spread the sauce evenly. For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate for 15-30 minutes (if you have time), but it’s also perfectly fine to cook it right away.
Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, turning the chicken once halfway through. As the chicken cooks, the sauce will begin to caramelize, turning sticky and glossy.
Finish and Serve: When the chicken is golden and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach at least 75°C or 165°F), remove it from the oven. If you want, you can drizzle any extra sauce from the roasting tin over the chicken before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy! Serve the sticky chicken alongside your favorite side dishes like rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Tips And Tricks

To make your Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken even better, here are a few tips:

Let It Marinate: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor. The longer it marinates, the more the chicken will absorb the marinade.
Don’t Skip Turning the Chicken: Turning the chicken halfway through cooking ensures that both sides get crispy and evenly coated in the sauce.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect, juicy chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 75°C (165°F) when fully cooked.
Add Heat: If you like a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze. This will add complexity and heat to balance the sweetness.
Use Chicken Thighs: While you can use any chicken cut, thighs or drumsticks work best for this recipe because they are naturally juicier and more flavorful. The skin also helps to keep the meat tender during roasting.
Make It a Complete Meal: To turn this dish into a one-pan meal, add some vegetables to the roasting tin, like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers. The vegetables will soak up the delicious glaze as they cook, making them a perfect accompaniment.

Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken is an effortlessly delicious dish that showcases the perfect balance of flavors. Its combination of savory soy sauce, sweet honey, zesty ginger, and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that coats tender chicken, turning it into a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a flavorful, sticky masterpiece every time. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got yourself a show-stopping dinner that will leave everyone asking for more!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken

Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken is already a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing dish, but what if you’re in the mood to mix things up or add a personal twist? Here are some exciting and simple variations that can elevate the dish further:

Spicy Sticky Chicken

If you love a bit of heat, adding chili to the mix will take the dish to the next level. Simply incorporate some chopped fresh red chilies or a tablespoon of chili flakes into the marinade. For even more heat, a dash of hot sauce (like sriracha) can be mixed in with the soy sauce and honey. This variation offers the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, giving the dish an exciting zing.
Sticky Orange Chicken

Swap out the lemon for orange for a citrusy twist. The bright, zesty flavor of orange pairs beautifully with honey and soy sauce, creating a slightly sweeter, fruity glaze. You can even add orange zest to the marinade for an extra burst of flavor. If you want to take it further, try garnishing with fresh coriander and finely grated orange peel to brighten up the presentation.
Ginger & Garlic Sticky Chicken

Adding extra garlic and fresh ginger will make your sticky chicken more aromatic and punchy. The natural warmth from ginger and the earthy kick from garlic complement the sweetness of the honey and the saltiness of the soy sauce perfectly. Grate or finely chop fresh ginger and garlic into the marinade for more depth, and even consider adding a dash of ground ginger for extra warmth.
Herb-Infused Sticky Chicken

A great way to give the sticky chicken a more earthy flavor is by adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the marinade. The woody, slightly peppery notes of these herbs complement the sweetness of the honey and the soy sauce, balancing out the richness of the chicken. You could even sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top just before serving for added freshness.
Sticky Chicken with Sesame

For a more Asian-inspired variation, you can introduce sesame seeds into your sticky chicken. Toasted sesame seeds add a lovely nutty crunch and depth of flavor, enhancing the texture contrast against the tender chicken. You could also mix a little sesame oil into the marinade for a deeper, toasted flavor that enriches the dish. Finish it off with a sprinkling of sesame seeds and a few finely chopped spring onions to elevate both the flavor and the presentation.
Sticky Chicken with Pineapple

Adding pineapple to the dish brings a delightful tropical twist. Pineapple’s sweetness and acidity pair beautifully with the savory glaze, creating an irresistible contrast. You can incorporate small chunks of fresh pineapple into the marinade, or even grill slices of pineapple alongside the chicken. The caramelized sweetness of the grilled pineapple adds an extra layer of complexity to the dish.

Storing Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken is not only delicious on the day it’s made, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers. Properly storing leftovers can help preserve the flavor and texture of this dish for future meals. Here’s how to store it:

Cool Down Properly

Before storing your sticky chicken, make sure it has cooled to room temperature. This is important because storing hot food directly in the fridge can raise the internal temperature of your fridge, potentially putting other food at risk of bacteria growth. Aim to let your chicken cool for no more than two hours at room temperature.
Airtight Containers

Once cooled, place the sticky chicken in an airtight container. This helps prevent air from getting in and keeps the dish moist, while also protecting it from absorbing any unpleasant odors from other items in the fridge. It’s a good idea to portion it out into smaller containers if you want to heat up just a few servings at a time.
Refrigeration

Store your sticky chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days. The combination of honey and soy sauce helps to preserve the dish, but it’s always best to consume it sooner rather than later to enjoy the optimal flavor and texture.
Freezing Leftovers

If you’ve made a large batch and want to save it for longer, sticky chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply place the chicken in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. If you plan on freezing the dish, it’s best to remove the chicken from the sauce beforehand to ensure it doesn’t become soggy once thawed. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating

When reheating leftover sticky chicken, it’s essential to do so gently to avoid drying it out. You can reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water or chicken stock to keep the sauce from thickening too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure it heats evenly.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken?

Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn this dish into a feast. Here are some fantastic accompaniments to elevate your meal:

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The delicate, aromatic flavors of steamed jasmine rice make a perfect pairing with sticky chicken. The fluffy texture of the rice soaks up the sweet and savory glaze, creating a comforting balance to the richness of the chicken. If you want a twist, you could also try coconut rice, where the rice is cooked with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.
Roasted Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables, like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips, bring a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sticky glaze of the chicken. You can also add a medley of other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli, to add color and crunch. The caramelized edges of the roasted vegetables complement the sticky sauce, making it an ideal match.
Asian-Style Slaw

An Asian-inspired slaw with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich chicken. The crunch of the vegetables, paired with a sweet, tangy dressing, balances out the sticky, savory flavor of the chicken, creating a bright and refreshing side.
Garlic Bread

If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, a side of garlic bread will never disappoint. The buttery, garlicky goodness of toasted bread pairs well with the sticky chicken, perfect for soaking up every drop of that glorious sauce. Try adding a sprinkle of parmesan or fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Simple Green Salad

A light, crisp green salad with fresh greens like arugula, spinach, or mixed leaves, topped with a tangy vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sticky chicken. You could also add some sliced cucumber, radishes, and cherry tomatoes for added crunch and flavor.
Noodles

For a heartier meal, you could serve sticky chicken with some stir-fried noodles. The noodles, soaked in a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil, complement the flavors of the chicken without overpowering it. You can add some stir-fried vegetables to the noodles for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors in every bite. Its versatility allows you to customize it in many ways, from adding heat with chilies to infusing fresh herbs or even mixing in fruit like pineapple for a tropical twist.

Storing leftovers is a breeze-just follow simple guidelines for refrigeration or freezing, ensuring the chicken stays as delicious as the day it was made. Pair it with any number of side dishes, from fragrant rice to crisp salads, and you have a meal that works for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

This dish embodies the simplicity and elegance that Mary Berry is known for, combining easy preparation with a burst of flavor that will leave you coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of the classic version or excited to try one of the many variations, this recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken Recipe?

Mary Berry’s sticky chicken recipe requires a selection of ingredients to create its sweet and savory flavors. These include chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless), soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, lime juice, olive oil, and chili flakes. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and brown sugar creates the ‘sticky’ sauce, while garlic and ginger add depth to the flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken?

The total cooking time for Mary Berry’s sticky chicken is approximately 45-50 minutes. This includes 10-15 minutes of preparation time and 30-40 minutes of cooking time, depending on the size of the chicken pieces and your oven. It’s important to cook the chicken until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken In Advance?

Yes, Mary Berry’s sticky chicken can be made in advance. You can prepare the dish up to the point of cooking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. To reheat, simply place the chicken in the oven and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has caramelized again. The flavors will also deepen if left to sit overnight, making it a great dish for meal prep or entertaining.

Mary Berry’s Sticky Chicken Recipe [GUIDE]