Mary berry tarragon chicken wrapped in parma ham
Mary berry tarragon chicken wrapped in parma ham
I. Introduction:
Mary Berry is a well-known name in British cooking, famous for her easy recipes and focus on good ingredients. She has made traditional British dishes popular and fun for home cooks. One of her recipes is tarragon chicken wrapped in Parma ham, a dish that mixes comfort with great flavors. This recipe not only shows off Britain’s cooking traditions but also looks at its nutritional benefits and offers options for different diets, including a vegan version.
II. Mary Berry’s Unique Approach & Historical Context:
Mary Berry is known for always choosing the best ingredients, as she believes they are key to making great dishes. Tarragon chicken comes from classic French cooking, where herbs like tarragon are loved for their wonderful flavors. Over time, this dish became a favorite in British homes and is often served at special celebrations.
Mary Berry’s version of this dish respects its traditional origins while adding her unique style, like using Parma ham for an enjoyable change. Her recipes show her cooking beliefs, blending fond memories with new ideas, making her dishes both classic and modern.
III. Notices on Ingredients & Equipment:
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts (preferably free-range)
- 100g Parma ham (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon (chopped)
- 100ml double cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Equipment:
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Frying pan
- Baking dish
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
IV. Recipe Instruction:
Prepare the Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts on a chopping board. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the Tarragon: Sprinkle the chopped tarragon evenly over the chicken.
Wrap with Parma Ham: Take a slice of Parma ham and wrap it around each chicken breast, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
Sear the Chicken: Place the wrapped chicken in the pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine double cream and Dijon mustard, whisking until smooth.
Bake: Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish, pour the cream sauce over the top, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes.
Serve: Once cooked, serve hot with a side of vegetables or salad.
V. Flavor & Nutritional Information:
The tarragon chicken is rich and creamy, with the aromatic tarragon offering a distinctive flavor that pairs beautifully with the salty Parma ham. A typical serving provides approximately 450 calories, 30g of fat, 35g of protein, and 5g of carbohydrates. [Nutritional information source: USDA FoodData Central.]
VI. Tips for a Perfect Tarragon Chicken:
- Troubleshooting: If your sauce turns out watery, ensure you’re using thick double cream and allow it to reduce slightly during cooking.
- Enhancing Flavor: Using aged cheddar can deepen the flavor, and a breadcrumb topping can add texture.
- Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme, or add a splash of white wine to the cream sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
VII. Alternative (Vegan and Non-Veg):
For a vegan option, substitute chicken with tofu or seitan, and use vegan cream and a plant-based ham alternative.
Ingredients:
- 400g firm tofu (pressed and sliced)
- 100g vegan ham slices
- Follow the same preparation steps as above for a delicious vegan alternative.
VIII. Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:
Serve the tarragon chicken with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. For a twist, try serving it with a side of wild rice or a fresh green salad.
IX. Storage & Reheating Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring the chicken is heated through.
X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
- Is there a substitute for tarragon? If tarragon is unavailable, fresh dill or parsley can be used, though the flavor will differ.
XI. Conclusion & Call to Action:
This tarragon chicken wrapped in Parma ham is a delightful dish that embodies the comforting essence of home cooking. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your experiences, and explore the versatility it offers. For more delicious recipes, visit Mary Berry’s official website and discover even more culinary delights!
