Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken Recipe

If you love a rich, indulgent chicken dish, you will enjoy this Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken Recipe. It combines succulent chicken with haggis, wrapped in bacon and baked to perfection.

I first tried it on a cozy winter evening and the flavors were unforgettable. This Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken Recipe is easy to make at home and perfect for a special dinner.

Today, I will show you exactly How to make Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken using simple, easy-to-follow steps.

Why I Love Making This Balmoral Chicken

Balmoral Chicken feels like a true celebration on a plate. It is flavorful, hearty and comforting. I remember serving it to friends during a festive dinner and everyone asked for seconds.

The combination of chicken, haggis and bacon creates a beautiful harmony of flavors. The dish is inspired by Scottish cuisine, but the Hairy Bikers’ recipe makes it simple for home cooks.

Making this dish fills the kitchen with an amazing aroma, and it looks impressive when served. It’s a dish that brings warmth and smiles around the table.

Equipment List

• Ovenproof frying pan or skillet
• Baking tray
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen string or toothpicks
• Serving platter

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken
• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Scottish / British
• Calories: About 450 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 200 g haggis
• 8 slices of smoked streaky bacon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Optional: 1 tablespoon whisky for extra flavor
• Lemon wedges, to serve

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Chicken

Place chicken breasts on a chopping board. Cut a pocket in each breast without cutting through. This will hold the haggis. Be careful and use a sharp knife.

2. Fill with Haggis

Divide the haggis into four portions. Stuff each portion into the pocket of the chicken breast. Press the edges gently so the haggis stays inside during cooking.

3. Wrap in Bacon

Take two slices of smoked streaky bacon per chicken breast. Wrap the bacon around each stuffed chicken breast, covering completely. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen string if needed.

4. Season the Chicken

Drizzle olive oil over the chicken. Sprinkle black pepper, salt and fresh thyme leaves on top. Rub gently so the seasoning sticks to the bacon.

5. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/Gas Mark 6. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the bacon crisps nicely.

6. Sear the Chicken

Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side. This locks in juices and adds golden color to the bacon.

7. Bake to Perfection

Transfer the chicken to a baking tray. Place in the oven for 20–25 minutes. Check the internal temperature reaches 75°C/165°F. The chicken should be cooked through and bacon crisp.

8. Rest and Serve

Remove chicken from the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of sides. This helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

Read More: James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie Recipe

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use fresh haggis from a butcher for best taste.
• Substitute bacon with prosciutto for a milder flavor.
• Add a teaspoon of whisky to the haggis for traditional taste.
• Serve with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
• Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
• Make smaller portions for a starter or canapé version.

History or Fun Fact About the Dish

Balmoral Chicken is inspired by Balmoral Castle in Scotland. It combines traditional Scottish haggis with a modern chicken dish. Haggis is a mixture of sheep’s offal, oats, onions and spices.

Traditionally served during Burns Night, the Hairy Bikers turned it into a hearty chicken recipe suitable for home cooking.

This dish represents Scottish flavors with a contemporary twist, making it accessible and delicious.

Pairings & Complementary Recipes

Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. Creamy buttered cabbage or carrot ribbons complement the rich flavors.

You can also serve it with a simple green salad for balance. Sauces like whisky cream or mustard cream add extra indulgence. Pair with a crisp white wine or light ale to enjoy the flavors fully.

Occasion or Event Ideas

This dish is perfect for festive dinners or special family meals. It works well for Burns Night celebrations or winter gatherings. I often make it for friends during weekend dinner parties.

Its presentation impresses guests and makes any meal feel extra special. It is also a fun dish for trying traditional Scottish flavors at home.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
• Reheat gently in the oven to keep the bacon crispy.
• Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy bacon.
• Slice and serve cold for salads or sandwiches the next day.
• Always check that chicken is reheated thoroughly before eating.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	40 g
Fat	28 g
Carbohydrates	8 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	600 mg

Health Benefits

Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken provides high-quality protein from chicken and haggis. Protein supports muscles and satiety. Haggis contains oats, which add fiber and slow-release energy.

Using lean chicken keeps it balanced while bacon adds flavor in moderation. Serve with vegetables to add vitamins and minerals. This dish is indulgent yet can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed responsibly.

FAQs about Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken

1. Can I make Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and haggis ahead. Keep wrapped in bacon and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture and taste.

2. Can I use pre-cooked haggis?

Yes, pre-cooked haggis works well. Adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken. Pre-cooked haggis simplifies preparation for busy cooks.

3. What sides go best with Balmoral Chicken?

Mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, green beans or cabbage pair beautifully. Creamy sauces like mustard cream also enhance the rich flavors of the chicken.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, ensure haggis is gluten-free. Most store-bought chicken and bacon are naturally gluten-free. Check seasoning labels for safety.

5. Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Yes, use a vegetarian haggis substitute and wrap with smoked tofu or plant-based bacon. Bake similarly for a satisfying alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken Recipe is rich, flavorful and perfect for special occasions. Now you know exactly How to make Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken at home.

The Ingredients for Hairy Bikers Balmoral Chicken are easy to find and the method is straightforward.

Try it for your next dinner and enjoy the impressive flavors and comforting aroma. It brings Scottish tradition and homemade warmth straight to your table.