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Easy Chutney and Mayo Chicken (Oven-Baked)

chutney and mayo chicken

I’m back with a super easy, absolutely delicious chutney and mayo chicken recipe that’s baked until juicy and golden, then smothered in a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet chutney-mayo sauce. This is one of those classic South African chicken recipes that never goes out of style. Every family has their own version, but the magic stays the same, minimal effort with maximum flavour.

If you’re looking for an easy baked chicken recipe that works for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or even casual entertaining, this one ticks all the boxes. It’s rich, comforting, and incredibly moreish… the kind of meal that has everyone going back for seconds.

Jump to Recipe

This particular chutney mayo chicken recipe has been passed down in my family, tucked inside one of my gran’s well-loved recipe binders. The pages are slightly worn, a little stained, and filled with handwritten notes… basically the holy grail of comfort cooking. Every time I make this dish, it brings back memories of a warm kitchen, full of laughter, good conversation, and the smell of something delicious baking in the oven.

Food has a beautiful way of connecting us to moments, and this dish is one of those nostalgic favourites that feels like a hug in a baking dish.

One of the best parts about this baked chutney chicken? You only need one mixing bowl and one oven dish. Less mess, less stress, and more time to actually enjoy your meal (or pour that glass of wine while it bakes).

This dish is perfect for a cozy winter dinner, but honestly, it works just as well for a Sunday family lunch, meal prep, or even when you need something reliable to serve guests without overthinking it.

Chutney and Mayo Chicken

chutney and mayo chicken
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5 from 2 votes

Chutney and Mayo Oven Baked Chicken

Easy week night recipe for fall off the bone chicken
Course Main Course
Keyword Chicken, Dinner
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 4
Author Lizna

Ingredients

  • 8 Pieces Chicken Pieces You can use drumsticks, thighs, or a mix. Bone-in, skin-on pieces work best as they stay juicy while baking.
  • Salt To taste
  • Pepper To taste
  • 1 Cup Boiling hot water Helps dissolve and distribute flavors evenly.
  • 1 Cup Chutney Mrs. Ball’s Chutney is my go-to; it gives the perfect balance of sweetness and tang
  • 1 Cup Mayonaise Full-fat mayo works best for a rich, creamy sauce
  • 1 Packet Brown Onion Soup – Adds a deep, savory onion flavor that pairs beautifully with the chutney

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). If you forget to preheat, don’t stress—it’s not a deal-breaker!
  • Arrange the chicken pieces in an oven-safe dish. Make sure they are in a single layer so they cook evenly. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper
  • Prepare the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the boiling water, chutney, mayonnaise, and onion soup mix. Stir until everything is well blended.
  • Pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is nicely coated.
  • Bake uncovered for 60 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown, the sauce is bubbling, and the meat is tender. If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil it for the last 5 minutes.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile! Serve it with: Rice – Plain white rice or a fragrant basmati to soak up the delicious sauce. Mashed potatoes – Creamy mash makes this extra comforting. Crusty bread – Perfect for mopping up the sauce! Steamed or roasted vegetables – Green beans, carrots, or broccoli complement the richness of the dish.  Couscous – A great lighter option if you’re not in the mood for potatoes or rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Minimal prep and simple ingredients you probably already have.
  • Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples like chutney and mayo.
  • Family-approved: Mild, creamy, and packed with flavour.
  • Versatile: Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh side salad.

Tips & Variations

  • Want extra sauce? Double the chutney, mayo, and soup mix for an even richer, saucier dish (perfect for rice!).
  • Like a spicy kick? Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of peri-peri sauce.
  • Prefer deeper flavour? Marinate the chicken in the sauce for 1–2 hours before baking.
  • Make it lighter: Swap regular mayo for low-fat mayo or plain Greek yogurt.
  • Add veggies: Throw in sliced onions, mushrooms, or baby potatoes to make it a one-pan meal.

What to Serve with Chutney and Mayo Chicken

Storage & Leftovers

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 160°C for 10–15 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
  • Freezer: Assemble before baking, cover well, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

This easy chutney and mayo chicken recipe is one of those foolproof, comforting meals you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s simple, nostalgic, and full of flavour, everything good home cooking should be.

If you give it a try, let me know! I love hearing how these recipes turn out in your kitchens. You can find more of my recipes here.

Easy chutney and mayo chicken baked in oven, South African chicken recipe

“You don’t need a silver fork to eat good food.” – Paul Prudhomme

Easy Chutney and Mayo Chicken (Oven-Baked) 1

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10 Comments

  1. Hey i’m a fello South African living in the UK. I want to try this in a slow cooker is it possible? What changes should i make?

    1. Hi Sarah

      I wouldn’t recommend doing it in the slow cooker as the chicken skins won’t crisp up at the top and with the long cooking time the sauce might loose to much moisture and thicken and stick to the slow cooker bottom

    2. My sister in law did it in the slow cooker today. I am not sure for how long it was in there (probably 3 to 4 hours), but she used skinless boneless chicken, left out the water and added button mushrooms. She says sometimes she even adds in frozen corn kernels, frozen peas, baby potatoes and/or carrots.

  2. This is just too yummy everyone loves it in my home .Perfect meal for Sundays

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