Mary Berry’s Chicken Orzo is a comforting one-pot dish combining tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce. This hearty and satisfying recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, offering a delicious and wholesome meal with minimal effort.
What is Mary Berry Chicken Orzo?
This dish features juicy chicken pieces cooked with orzo pasta in a savory tomato-based sauce, flavored with herbs and vegetables. The orzo absorbs the flavors of the sauce, creating a creamy and satisfying meal that’s both simple and elegant.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Easy One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Hearty and Filling: Combines protein, pasta, and vegetables.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
- Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully for next-day meals.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Chicken Orzo
For the Dish
- Chicken Thighs (6-8, bone-in, skin-on or skinless): Juicy and flavorful.
- Orzo Pasta (300g): Absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the aroma.
- Carrots (2, diced): Adds sweetness and texture.
- Chicken Stock (500ml): Forms the base of the sauce.
- Canned Tomatoes (400g): For a rich and tangy flavor.
- Tomato Paste (1 tbsp): Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- Fresh Thyme (2-3 sprigs): Adds an earthy flavor.
- Bay Leaf (1): Infuses the dish with subtle aroma.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley (chopped): For a fresh finish.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: For added richness.
Equipment Needed
- Large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish
- Wooden spoon
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Chicken Orzo
Step 1: Brown the chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or casserole dish over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, canned tomatoes, and chicken stock. Add the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the orzo and chicken
Stir the orzo into the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Place the browned chicken thighs on top. Cover with a lid or foil.
Step 5: Cook the dish
Simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked, and the orzo is tender.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.
What Goes Well With Mary Berry Chicken Orzo
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the sauce.
- Green Salad: Adds freshness and balance.
- Steamed Vegetables: Such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
- Roasted Tomatoes: Enhances the dish’s tomato flavor.
- White Wine: Complements the savory and herby notes.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Chicken Orzo
- Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs add more flavor to the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Customize the Vegetables: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for variety.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook.
- Serve Immediately: Orzo can absorb additional liquid as it sits, so serve right away for the best texture.
Easy Variations of Mary Berry Chicken Orzo
- Cheesy Orzo: Stir in grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or mushrooms and use vegetable stock.
- Lemon Herb Flavor: Add lemon zest and juice for a refreshing twist.
- Seafood Orzo: Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon.
Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Chicken Orzo
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of stock or water if needed.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for chicken orzo?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster than thighs. Ensure they remain tender by not overcooking, and consider slicing them before serving.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?
Stir the orzo occasionally during cooking and ensure there is enough liquid in the pan. Adding a splash of stock or water if the mixture thickens too much helps maintain the right texture.
Can I make chicken orzo ahead of time?
Chicken orzo is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a little stock or water to loosen the consistency.
What vegetables can I add to chicken orzo?
You can add spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas to the dish. Add firmer vegetables earlier in the cooking process and softer ones like spinach toward the end.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Chicken Orzo is a wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy orzo and tender chicken are a match made in heaven, making it a surefire hit with your family or guests.
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Mary Berry Chicken Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This dish features juicy chicken pieces cooked with orzo pasta in a savory tomato-based sauce, flavored with herbs and vegetables. The orzo absorbs the flavors of the sauce, creating a creamy and satisfying meal that’s both simple and elegant.
Ingredients
For the Dish
- Chicken Thighs (6-8, bone-in, skin-on or skinless): Juicy and flavorful.
- Orzo Pasta (300g): Absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the aroma.
- Carrots (2, diced): Adds sweetness and texture.
- Chicken Stock (500ml): Forms the base of the sauce.
- Canned Tomatoes (400g): For a rich and tangy flavor.
- Tomato Paste (1 tbsp): Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- Fresh Thyme (2-3 sprigs): Adds an earthy flavor.
- Bay Leaf (1): Infuses the dish with a subtle aroma.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley (chopped): For a fresh finish.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: For added richness.
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or casserole dish over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, canned tomatoes, and chicken stock. Add the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the orzo and chicken
Stir the orzo into the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Place the browned chicken thighs on top. Cover with a lid or foil.
Step 5: Cook the dish
Simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked, and the orzo is tender.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.
