Mary Berry's Mediterranean chicken traybake is a simple, one-pan dinner that requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum flavour. The recipe, which combines chicken thighs, drumsticks, potatoes, and vegetables, is designed to be ready in under an hour, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
The dish features preserved lemons for a tangy citrus kick, though regular lemon slices can be substituted. The cooking process involves tossing potatoes in oil, then adding onion, garlic, bacon, and chicken pieces before roasting. Courgettes and olives are added later for a final burst of freshness.
According to the recipe, the traybake takes only minutes to assemble and requires no fussy finishing off. It allows one chicken thigh and one drumstick per person, but less can be used for lighter appetites. The key is to spread everything in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
To prepare, preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan/Gas 7). Coat potatoes in oil in a large roasting tin, then add onion, garlic, bacon, and chicken. Season with paprika and roast for 40 minutes. Toss courgettes in oil, add to the tin with olives, and roast for another 20 minutes until golden and tender.
