As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to embrace the cozy comfort of hearty meals. Mary Berry, the beloved British baking queen, has a recipe that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out: Firecracker Chicken. This simple yet flavorful dish is a perfect blend of smoky paprika, rich maple syrup, and tangy Worcestershire sauce.
The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, even on busy weeknights. It takes just five minutes to prepare the marinade, then you can let the chicken soak up all the delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes, or even up to a day ahead if you’re planning ahead.
In her cookbook, ‘Simple Comforts,’ Mary describes this recipe as ideal for chilly evenings, especially around bonfire night, when everyone is gathered around for a festive occasion. The sweet and smoky paprika lends a unique, woody taste that complements the chicken perfectly.
Here’s what you’ll need to bring Mary Berry’s Firecracker Chicken to life:
* 12 chicken drumsticks
* 2 garlic cloves, minced
* 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 2 tablespoons maple syrup
* 6 tablespoons olive oil
* Tabasco sauce (to taste)
* Salt and pepper
Get ready to cook:
1.
Preheat your oven:
Set your oven to 220°C (200°C for fan ovens or Gas Mark 7) and line a large roasting tin with baking paper.2.
Make the magic marinade:
Combine the minced garlic, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, maple syrup, olive oil, and a dash of Tabasco sauce in a bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper.3.
Marinate the chicken:
Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and make sure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a day for extra flavor.4.
Bake to perfection:
When ready to cook, arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the prepared roasting tin. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.And that’s it! Your mouthwatering Firecracker Chicken is ready to enjoy. Serve these succulent drumsticks with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
So, gather your family and friends, light a fire (if it’s chilly enough!), and enjoy the warmth and flavor of Mary Berry’s Firecracker Chicken. It’s the perfect dish to brighten up any evening and make those colder nights feel a little more special.
