Mary Berry Chicken Taleggio Recipe

Name: Mary Berry Chicken Taleggio Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 25g butter; 1 onion, finely sliced; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 150ml chicken stock; 150ml double cream; 200g Taleggio cheese, rind removed and diced; 1 tsp thyme leaves; Salt and black pepper; 1 tbsp chopped parsley; Butter for dish

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Mary Berry Chicken Taleggio is a rich and comforting chicken dish made with tender golden chicken breasts baked in a creamy Taleggio cheese sauce. The cheese melts into a silky coating with a gentle tang and buttery finish, while the chicken stays juicy and full of flavour. It feels elegant enough for guests but is simple enough for a weeknight supper. This easy recipe takes around 45 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper

For the Taleggio Sauce

25g butter
1 onion, finely sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
150ml chicken stock
150ml double cream
200g Taleggio cheese, rind removed and diced
1 teaspoon thyme leaves

To Finish

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Mary Berry Chicken Taleggio Recipe

Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C or 180°C fan. Lightly butter a medium baking dish and place a shelf in the centre of the oven.
Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Brown the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side until golden. Transfer to the baking dish.
Cook the onion: Add the butter to the same pan. Fry the onion gently for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and thyme for 1 minute.
Make the sauce: Pour in the stock and cream. Simmer gently for 2 minutes, then add the Taleggio and stir until melted and smooth.
Assemble: Pour the hot cheese sauce evenly over the chicken in the dish.
Bake: Bake for 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Finish and serve: Scatter over chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips

How do I stop the sauce splitting?

Keep the heat gentle when melting the cheese and stir steadily. Avoid boiling once the cheese has been added.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless thighs work very well and stay especially juicy. Increase baking time slightly if pieces are large.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The thickest part should be piping hot and the juices should run clear. Internal temperature should reach 75°C.

What if I cannot find Taleggio?

Use Brie, Fontina or Camembert for a similar creamy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Buttered mashed potatoes
Steamed green beans
Plain rice
Crusty bread for the sauce
Simple green salad

Storage

Room Temperature

Do not leave out for more than 2 hours. Refrigerate promptly after serving.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently until piping hot.

Freezing

Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Cream sauces may loosen slightly after thawing.

Nutrition

Calories: 465 kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 42g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Sodium: 520mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make Mary Berry Chicken Taleggio ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up to one day ahead, cover and chill. Bake when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What does Taleggio cheese taste like?

Taleggio is creamy, mild and slightly tangy with a rich buttery flavour that melts beautifully into sauces.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can use full-fat milk, though the sauce will be lighter and less rich. Add a teaspoon of flour to help thicken it.

What should I serve with this chicken dish?

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta or green vegetables that soak up the creamy sauce.