Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is a dish that pairs succulent, lightly breaded chicken cutlets with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. The escalope, which is a thinly pounded chicken breast, is coated in breadcrumbs and fried to crispy perfection, providing a satisfying contrast to the smooth, yogurt-based dip. The tzatziki is made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and a bit of dill or mint, giving it a refreshing zing that balances out the richness of the chicken.
This recipe draws on classic Mediterranean flavors, with the tzatziki being a staple in Greek cuisine, offering a tangy, herbal complement to the crispy chicken. The escalope itself can be considered an elegant, lighter version of a breaded chicken cutlet or schnitzel, ideal for those seeking a more refined yet still hearty meal.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility: it can be served with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple potato dish. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a tasty, healthier alternative to a fried meal while keeping things delicious and flavorful.
Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make this dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients for both the chicken and the tzatziki sauce. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
For The Chicken Escalope
- Chicken Breasts (4 pieces) – Skinless, boneless chicken breasts, ideally pounded thin for a quick, even cook. Thin cuts help achieve that crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy.
- Plain Flour (for dredging) – The flour is used to coat the chicken before dipping it in egg and breadcrumbs. It helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, ensuring a crunchy exterior.
- Egg (1 large) – Whisked for dipping the chicken after the flour coating. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken.
- Breadcrumbs (preferably panko, 100g) – Panko breadcrumbs give a light, crispy texture, but you can use regular breadcrumbs for a denser coating.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning the chicken, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Olive Oil (for frying) – A high-quality extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil is best for frying, providing richness and a golden color to the crust.
For The Tzatziki Sauce
- Greek Yogurt (200g) – Thick, creamy Greek yogurt forms the base of the tzatziki, offering a smooth texture and rich flavor. Full-fat is preferable for a creamy result.
- Cucumber (½, grated) – Cucumber adds crunch and freshness to the sauce. It’s important to drain the excess water from the cucumber after grating it to prevent a watery dip.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced) – Fresh garlic adds a bold, savory flavor to the tzatziki.
- Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – Adds a refreshing, citrusy acidity to balance the creaminess of the yogurt.
- Dried Dill (1 tsp) or Fresh Mint (optional) – Dill is the classic herb for tzatziki, giving it a distinctive, earthy flavor, but fresh mint works as an alternative for a more aromatic note.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning the tzatziki to taste.
Equipment Needed
The equipment required for this dish is straightforward and likely already found in most kitchens. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin – To pound the chicken breasts thinly for an even cook and tender texture.
- Large Plates or Shallow Dishes – For setting up the dredging station (flour, egg, breadcrumbs) for the chicken.
- Frying Pan or Skillet – A large, non-stick frying pan or skillet is essential for frying the chicken to a perfect crisp without sticking.
- Mixing Bowl – For preparing the tzatziki sauce, mixing together the yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon, and herbs.
- Grater – For grating the cucumber into fine shreds for the tzatziki.
- Paper Towels – Used to drain the cooked chicken to keep it crispy and to remove excess oil.
- Serving Plates – To plate up the chicken and tzatziki once it’s all prepared.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki
Here’s how you can recreate this delicious dish step by step:
1. Prepare The Chicken
- Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of cling film or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it’s about ½ inch thick. This helps it cook quickly and evenly.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Prepare The Dredging Station
- On one plate, place the plain flour. On a second plate, beat the egg until smooth. On a third plate, spread out the breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Dip it into the egg, then press it into the breadcrumbs, covering it thoroughly.
3. Fry The Chicken
- Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add a generous amount of olive oil (enough to cover the base of the pan).
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken escalope into the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches if your pan is small.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
4. Make The Tzatziki Sauce
- While the chicken is frying, prepare the tzatziki by grating the cucumber and squeezing out any excess water with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill (or mint). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir well until everything is fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve
- Arrange the crispy chicken escalopes on serving plates. Spoon a generous amount of the tzatziki sauce on the side or drizzle it over the top.
- Serve with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or even some lightly sautéed greens for a complete meal.
Tips And Tricks
- Tenderizing the Chicken: When pounding the chicken, use gentle, even pressure. Don’t overdo it, or the meat could tear. The goal is to thin it out evenly, not to pulverize it.
- Breadcrumb Variations: While panko breadcrumbs offer the best crispiness, you can substitute them with seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
- Tzatziki Variations: For a creamier tzatziki, you can add a splash of olive oil. If you prefer a tangier version, increase the amount of lemon juice or add a little white wine vinegar.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the tzatziki a day ahead. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld and develop more depth.
- Healthier Option: To make this recipe even lighter, you can bake the breaded chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying it.
Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is a simple, delightful dish that brings together crispy, juicy chicken with the refreshing flavors of tzatziki. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. The combination of textures-the crispy, golden chicken and the cool, creamy sauce-offers a satisfying balance that’s hard to beat.
By using fresh ingredients and a few simple techniques, you can create a dish that feels both light and indulgent at the same time. And with a few optional tweaks, this recipe can be made to suit any taste, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Whether you stick to the classic or get creative with your tzatziki, this meal is sure to be a hit every time!
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki
Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is a delightful dish that balances juicy, tender chicken with the cool, tangy freshness of tzatziki. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe, but if you’re looking to put a unique twist on this dish, there are plenty of easy variations you can try.
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Herbed Chicken Escalope:
While the traditional recipe calls for seasoned breadcrumbs, you can elevate the flavor profile by mixing in fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the breadcrumbs. You can also add garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of dried chili flakes for an extra kick. If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, basil and oregano work particularly well.
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Crispy Parmesan Coating:
A subtle but impactful variation is to blend finely grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture. The cheese will add a golden, crispy texture while infusing the chicken with an extra depth of savory flavor. For even more cheese, sprinkle some Parmesan directly onto the escalope as it finishes cooking in the pan.
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Lemon and Herb Tzatziki:
Add a zesty punch to your tzatziki by incorporating freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and additional fresh herbs like dill or parsley. The lemon brings brightness to the dish, and the fresh herbs will amplify the tangy yogurt base of the tzatziki, enhancing its overall freshness.
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Zucchini or Sweet Potato Escalope:
For a twist on the classic, you can swap the chicken for thinly sliced zucchini or sweet potato. Thin slices of these vegetables, once breaded and fried, give you a lighter, vegetarian-friendly alternative that still captures the crisp, golden texture of an escalope. You can use the same seasoning and tzatziki as a topping.
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Chicken Escalope with a Sweet Twist:
Try serving your chicken escalope with a drizzle of honey or pomegranate molasses. The sweetness of honey complements the savory chicken and the cool, creamy tzatziki. You could also throw in some pomegranate seeds for an added burst of flavor and a dash of color, creating a beautiful contrast of sweet and savory elements.
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Spicy Tzatziki with Jalapeños:
If you’re someone who enjoys a spicy kick, mix chopped jalapeños or green chilies into the tzatziki. This variation brings a fiery contrast to the cool and creamy base of tzatziki, making it an exciting pairing with the crispy escalope.
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve made a larger batch of Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki and find yourself with leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to ensure they remain as tasty as possible.
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Storing Chicken Escalope:
Once the chicken has cooled to room temperature, place it in an airtight container. Store the escalope in the fridge, where it should last for up to 2-3 days. However, to maintain its crispiness, consider reheating the escalope in an oven or air fryer, which will help it stay crunchy. Avoid using a microwave for reheating as it can make the breading soggy.
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Storing Tzatziki:
Tzatziki is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure the tzatziki is kept in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any other flavors in the fridge. If it becomes too watery after sitting for a while, simply stir it gently before serving. Adding an extra squeeze of lemon or a pinch of salt can help rejuvenate the tzatziki and bring it back to life after storage.
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Freezing:
While you can technically freeze the chicken escalope, it’s not recommended, as freezing can affect the crispy texture. If you must freeze it, make sure the chicken is well-wrapped in plastic wrap or foil and then stored in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, defrost the chicken in the fridge overnight and reheat it in an oven or air fryer for the best results.
Tzatziki doesn’t freeze well either, as the yogurt may separate when thawed, leading to a watery consistency. For the best quality and texture, it’s best to make the tzatziki fresh each time.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki?
Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is incredibly versatile, and there are many delicious side dishes you can pair with it to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
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Greek Salad:
A classic pairing with tzatziki, a Greek salad brings in refreshing, crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and Kalamata olives. Tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing, this salad adds brightness and freshness to balance out the rich and crispy chicken escalope.
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Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini work beautifully with chicken escalope. Their natural sweetness and slight char from roasting complement the savory, crisp chicken. You can season the vegetables with similar Mediterranean herbs (like thyme and rosemary) to tie the flavors together.
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Rice Pilaf:
A fragrant rice pilaf, made with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, is another excellent choice. The rice adds a hearty element to the dish, and the subtle spices elevate the overall flavor experience. You can also toss in some raisins or pine nuts to add texture and a bit of sweetness.
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Crispy Fries or Sweet Potato Fries:
For a more indulgent option, serve the chicken escalope with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato fries. The crispy, salty fries make a perfect contrast to the tender, juicy chicken, and they’re an easy crowd-pleaser. Sweet potato fries offer a slightly healthier alternative, with their natural sweetness pairing well with the savory chicken and tzatziki.
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Grilled Pita Bread:
Soft, warm pita bread is another ideal side to serve alongside the chicken escalope. Use it to scoop up the tzatziki or simply enjoy it as a soft, pillowy accompaniment to the crispy escalope. You can also grill the pita for a bit of extra char and flavor.
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Coleslaw:
A light, tangy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a vinegar-based dressing offers a crisp, cool side that complements the warm, crispy chicken. The acidity from the vinegar also balances the richness of the escalope and tzatziki.
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Steamed or Sautéed Greens:
Steamed greens, like spinach or kale, or lightly sautéed green beans make for a nutrient-packed side. A simple drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavor, making it a healthy and flavorful pairing with the chicken escalope.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope with Tzatziki is a classic recipe that provides a great foundation for experimenting with flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking to spice it up with jalapeños or add a touch of sweetness with honey, the recipe is versatile and easily adaptable. When it comes to storage, keeping the escalope crispy requires some extra care, but the leftovers will still hold their charm if stored correctly.
Pairing it with sides like Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy fries can elevate the meal to something truly special. This dish combines simplicity with flavor, and whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s bound to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the variations or find new sides-this dish offers endless possibilities for creativity in the kitchen.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki Recipe?
Mary Berry’s chicken escalope with tzatziki recipe requires chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, eggs, and flour to create the crispy escalope. The tzatziki is made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill. The combination of these ingredients creates a refreshing and crunchy dish perfect for a light meal.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Escalope With Tzatziki Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare certain components of the dish ahead of time. The tzatziki can be made a few hours in advance or even the day before, allowing the flavors to meld together. However, it’s best to cook the chicken escalope fresh, as it retains its crispy texture when served right after frying. If needed, the chicken can be reheated in the oven to keep it crispy.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Escalope Stays Crispy When Making Mary Berry’s Recipe?
To ensure the chicken escalope stays crispy, make sure to coat the chicken evenly with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Press down lightly to help the breadcrumbs adhere. Additionally, frying the escalope in oil that’s at the right temperature (around 180°C or 350°F) helps achieve a golden, crunchy crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the temperature to drop and the chicken to become soggy.
