chicken and gammon recipe
The Best chicken and gammon recipe
Chicken and gammon is one of those simple dishes that feels like a hug for your taste buds, especially when life gets busy or you just want something hearty and comforting. I’ve been making it since my kids were little, and honestly, it’s one of those recipes that doesn’t just taste good—it makes the whole meal feel special. There’s something about the tender, slow-cooked gammon that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken, and the way the flavors meld together makes it feel like a little celebration every time I serve it. My kids always ask for seconds, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s not just food; it’s a meal that’s easy to prepare but feels like a real treat.
This recipe works for so many different occasions—whether it’s a weekend dinner after a long week, a family gathering, or just a lazy Sunday when you want something satisfying without all the fuss. The gammon is so versatile; you can slice it up for sandwiches, use it in salads, or even serve it as a side with roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad. And the chicken? It’s so tender and flavorful, it’s almost like it’s been made just for you. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftovers, because once the gammon and chicken are cooked, they actually taste even better the next day. My husband says it’s the only meal he ever wants to reheat, and I can’t argue with that.
Health-wise, this recipe is surprisingly balanced. The gammon is leaner than you might think once it’s cooked down, and the chicken is packed with protein and vitamins. You can season it lightly with herbs and spices to keep things fresh without adding too much salt. It’s a meal that’s filling but not heavy, and it’s easy to adjust the ingredients if you’re watching your portions. My kids love it because it’s not too greasy, and it’s something they can eat without feeling guilty. Plus, the way the meat stays moist and tender makes it a real crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a small family or a bigger group, this dish is a winner—simple, delicious, and always a hit.

Classic Chicken and Gammon with Mushroom Gravy
A comforting British dish featuring tender roasted chicken and gammon, served with a rich mushroom gravy and fluffy Yorkshire pudding. Perfect for a hearty family meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 lb (450g) gammon (cured pork shoulder)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken stock
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a roasting tray with foil and grease it lightly.
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2 For the gammon: Remove the gammon from the packaging, rinse, and pat dry. Score the surface in a crosshatch pattern. Mix olive oil, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Rub the mixture over the gammon and chicken thighs. Place both in the roasting tray.
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3 For the Yorkshire pudding dough: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, egg, milk, and melted butter until smooth. Let rest for 10 minutes.
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4 Roast the gammon and chicken for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 15 minutes.
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5 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the Yorkshire pudding batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes until puffed and golden.
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6 While Yorkshire puddings bake, heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Stir in chicken stock, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.
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7 Slice the gammon and chicken into serving pieces. Arrange Yorkshire puddings on a platter, top with gammon and chicken, and pour the mushroom gravy over the top.
🔧Equipment
- Roasting tray
- Oven
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Pastry brush
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Chicken and Gammon with Mushroom Gravy Works
This chicken and gammon recipe is always a solid choice for family gatherings because it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare ahead of time. It’s perfect for potlucks, holiday meals, or just a cozy weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the combination of tender chicken and rich gammon makes it feel special without needing fancy ingredients or complicated steps.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Gammon with Mushroom Gravy
What is the difference between chicken and gammon in terms of cooking methods?
Chicken is typically cooked using a variety of methods such as grilling, baking, frying, or boiling, depending on the dish. In contrast, gammon is a whole cured ham, usually made from the hind legs of a pig, and is typically slow-cooked in the oven. Gammon is often roasted at a lower temperature for a longer period to ensure it is tender and flavorful.
How long does it take to cook chicken and gammon?
The cooking time for chicken varies greatly depending on the cut and method. For example, a whole chicken can take about 1 to 2 hours to bake at 375°F (190°C), while boneless breasts might take around 20-30 minutes. In contrast, cooking gammon involves a longer process. A typical gammon leg can take around 3 to 4 hours at 300°F (150°C) to ensure it is cooked through and tender.
Can I use any type of chicken for this recipe, or do I whole chicken need to be specific?
For a classic chicken and gammon dish, it’s best to use a whole chicken (typically a whole chicken weighing around 2.5 to 3.5 kg). This ensures even cooking and allows for the preparation of multiple dishes (like stuffing, gravy, or roasted vegetables). If you’re using chicken pieces (like thighs or breasts), make sure they are of consistent size for even cooking.
What ingredients are typically included in a traditional chicken and gammon dish?
A traditional chicken and gammon dish often includes: – A whole chicken (or cut into pieces) – A whole gammon leg – Onions, carrots, and celery (for stuffing and gravy) – Garlic – Fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley) – A rich gravy base (using chicken stock, butter, and flour) – Potatoes or other root vegetables for serving – Sometimes, a simple sauce like Worcestershire or a touch of mustard for extra flavor
Can I substitute gammon with another type of meat if I don’t have one?
If you don’t have gammon, you can try substituting it with a similarly cured or slow-cooked leg of pork (like a pork shoulder or leg), though the flavor and texture will differ. Another option is to use a well-marinated leg of lamb or even a thick-cut bacon-wrapped chicken leg for added richness. However, gammon’s unique salty, savory depth is hard to replicate, so if possible, using it is best for authenticity.
