Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with the rich, smoky flavors of chorizo, sweet peppers, and tomatoes. This one-pot meal is easy to prepare, making it perfect for a midweek dinner or a hearty weekend meal.
What Is Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken?
Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken is a vibrant dish inspired by the flavors of Spain. It features chicken thighs cooked in a tomato-based sauce with smoky chorizo, peppers, onions, and aromatic spices. This recipe is hearty, satisfying, and packed with bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Rich and Hearty: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
- Bold Flavors: Features smoked paprika, chorizo, and sweet peppers.
- Versatile: Pairs well with rice, crusty bread, or potatoes.
- Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps for a delicious result.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken
- 8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – Juicy and flavorful protein base.
- 100g chorizo (sliced) – Adds smokiness and spice.
- 1 large onion (sliced) – For a sweet, savory base.
- 2 red bell peppers (sliced) – Brings sweetness and color.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced) – Enhances the depth of flavor.
- 400g canned chopped tomatoes – Forms the base of the sauce.
- 150ml chicken stock – Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – Infuses a smoky, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Adds a herby note.
- Salt and pepper – To season.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For browning the chicken.
- Fresh parsley (chopped) – For garnish.
Equipment Needed
- Large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish – For cooking and baking.
- Tongs – To handle the chicken.
- Wooden spoon – For stirring the sauce.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Chorizo and Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced chorizo and cook for 2-3 minutes until it releases its oils. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the smoked paprika and oregano. Add the canned tomatoes and chicken stock, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with rice, crusty bread, or roasted potatoes.
What Goes Well with Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken
- Steamed Rice: Soaks up the rich tomato sauce.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up the flavorful juices.
- Roasted Potatoes: A hearty and satisfying side.
- Green Salad: Adds freshness and balance.
- Grilled Vegetables: Complements the smoky, bold flavors.
Expert Tips for the Best Spanish Chicken
- Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in thighs stay juicier and more flavorful during cooking.
- Brown the Chicken Well: Searing adds depth and locks in moisture.
- Adjust Spices: Add extra smoked paprika or a pinch of chili flakes for more heat.
- Cook Slowly: Let the chicken bake gently to absorb the sauce flavors.
- Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Parsley or fresh thyme enhances the dish’s presentation and taste.
Easy Variations of Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken
- Spicy Version: Add chopped chili or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetable-Packed: Include zucchini, mushrooms, or olives for added texture and flavor.
- White Wine Addition: Replace half the chicken stock with dry white wine for a richer sauce.
- Seafood Twist: Add cooked prawns or mussels during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free and full of bold flavors.
Best Practices to Store Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the oven, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.
How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken Healthier?
- Use Skinless Chicken: Reduces fat while keeping the dish flavorful.
- Add More Vegetables: Increase the quantity of peppers or include spinach or kale.
- Reduce Chorizo: Use a smaller amount or substitute with turkey sausage.
- Limit Salt: Use low-sodium chicken stock and adjust seasoning sparingly.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs for Spanish Chicken?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster and could dry out. To keep them tender, reduce the baking time and ensure they’re submerged in the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Chorizo in Spanish Chicken?
If chorizo isn’t available, you can use smoked sausage or turkey sausage for a similar flavor. For a vegetarian option, smoked paprika can mimic the smoky flavor.
Can I Make Spanish Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, Spanish chicken can be made in advance. Cook the dish, let it cool, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.
What Vegetables Can I Add to Spanish Chicken?
You can add zucchini, mushrooms, or olives for extra flavor and texture. Spinach or kale can also be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its smoky tomato sauce, tender chicken, and bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this recipe is perfect for casual dinners or special occasions. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a comforting and delicious meal!
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Mary Berry Spanish Chicken
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish
Description
Mary Berry’s Spanish Chicken is a vibrant dish inspired by the flavors of Spain. It features chicken thighs cooked in a tomato-based sauce with smoky chorizo, peppers, onions, and aromatic spices. This recipe is hearty, satisfying, and packed with bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – Juicy and flavorful protein base.
- 100g chorizo (sliced) – Adds smokiness and spice.
- 1 large onion (sliced) – For a sweet, savory base.
- 2 red bell peppers (sliced) – Brings sweetness and color.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced) – Enhances the depth of flavor.
- 400g canned chopped tomatoes – Forms the base of the sauce.
- 150ml chicken stock – Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – Infuses a smoky, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Adds a herby note.
- Salt and pepper – To season.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For browning the chicken.
- Fresh parsley (chopped) – For garnish.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Chorizo and Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced chorizo and cook for 2-3 minutes until it releases its oils. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the smoked paprika and oregano. Add the canned tomatoes and chicken stock, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with rice, crusty bread, or roasted potatoes.
