Mrs. Ball’s chutney is a beloved condiment in South African kitchens because of its distinct flavor combination of spicy, acidic, and sweet. Since its invention in the early 1800s by Mrs. Ball, who began producing chutney in her kitchen in the town of Cradock, this adaptable condiment has been a mainstay.
Since then, it has grown to be a well-liked product both in South Africa and abroad. It is frequently eaten with meats and cheeses and is a vital component of many different dishes.
In this recipe for Mrs Balls Chutney and Mayonnaise Chicken, the chutney is paired with creamy mayonnaise to create a delicious marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor and moisture. The result is a tender, succulent dish that is perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or simply a comforting weeknight meal.
Mrs Balls Chutney and Mayonnaise Chicken Ingredients
To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
A whole chicken (approximately 1.5 to 2 kg), cut into portions
250 ml of Mrs. Ball’s chutney
250 ml of mayonnaise
1 packet (40 g) of onion soup mix
250 ml of boiling water
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Fresh herbs (such as parsley or coriander) for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful marinade that not only enhances the chicken but also adds depth to the overall dish.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Chicken
Start by getting your chicken ready. After giving it a good rinse in cold water, blot it dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step since it makes sure the marinade sticks to the chicken skin properly. To ensure that every piece cooks uniformly, divide the chicken into manageable portions: legs, thighs, wings, and breasts.
After chopping the chicken, liberally season the pieces with salt and pepper. This first seasoning brings out the chicken’s inherent flavors and prepares the palate for the marinade.
Making the Marinade
Next, put the boiling water and onion soup mix into a big mixing basin. Once the soup mix has completely dissolved, stir. The marinade’s flavor profile is enhanced by the savory depth that the onion soup mix imparts to it.
Pour in the mayonnaise and Mrs. Ball’s chutney after the soup mix has dissolved. Mix these items together until you obtain a smooth consistency. Chutney and mayonnaise combine to provide a rich marinade that strikes the ideal balance between creaminess and sweetness, making it ideal for coating chicken.
Marinating the Chicken
When the marinade is done, transfer the seasoned chicken pieces to a big resealable plastic bag or an ovenproof dish. Ensure that each piece is well-coated with the marinade for optimum flavor infusion. To guarantee even coating, if you’re using a bag, close it securely and give the chicken a gentle massage with the marinade.
If the dish is ovenproof, cover it with a lid or aluminum foil. For optimal results, if using a bag, refrigerate it for at least an hour, but preferably overnight. Giving the marinating process enough time brings out the flavors and guarantees that every bite is incredibly tasty.
Mrs Balls Chutney and Mayonnaise Chicken Cooking Instructions
Warming Up Your Oven
Set the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F). This is an important step because it sets up your cooking space for uniform heat distribution, which will guarantee that your chicken cooks all the way through without drying out.
Baking Procedure
After preheating your oven, put the covered dish inside and bake it for an hour. Steam is created inside the dish during the first covered bake, which keeps the chicken wet and lets it absorb all the great flavors from the marinade.
After an hour, carefully take the foil or lid off of the dish. This crucial stage gives the chicken the perfect browning on top, giving it a mouthwateringly caramelized crust that enhances the dish’s flavor and appearance.
Place the dish back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for a further 15 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden brown color throughout (the internal temperature should be at least 75°C, or 165°F). For added moisture and flavor, you can, if you’d like, baste the chicken with some of its juices midway through this last cooking stage.
See also: Chops chutney recipe
Serving Suggestions
This delectable dish pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its rich flavors:
Rice: Serve with plain rice or South African yellow rice infused with spices like turmeric and raisins for added sweetness.
Vegetables: Steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans provide a fresh contrast to this rich dish.
Salad: A crisp garden salad dressed with vinaigrette can balance out the flavors beautifully.
Bread: Freshly baked bread or rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
For those who enjoy leftovers, this chicken also makes an excellent filling for sandwiches or wraps. Simply shred any remaining meat and combine it with additional mayonnaise or chutney for a quick and tasty lunch option.
Tips for Success
To further enhance and personalize this recipe:
Add Spices: If you want to give your marinade a little more oomph, try adding some curry powder or chili flakes.
Use Different Cuts of Chicken: For added taste, you can use drumsticks or thighs instead of the full chicken pieces called for in this recipe.
Try Different Ingredients in Your Recipes: Add-ons like chopped garlic or bay leaves improve the overall flavor profile of your meal.
Garnish: Before serving, think about adding some freshly chopped herbs, such as coriander or parsley, to your finished dish. This gives your display more vibrancy and color.
Conclusion
Mrs Balls Chutney and Mayonnaise Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together family and friends around a table filled with warmth and laughter. The combination of Mrs. Ball’s spicy yet sweet chutney and creamy mayonnaise makes for an enticing glaze that elevates ordinary chicken to remarkable heights.
This recipe gives you the freedom to experiment with flavor combinations to suit your palette while also showcasing South African culinary heritage. This recipe is sure to wow everyone at your table, whether you are serving supper to a crowd or spending a quiet evening at home with your loved ones.
