Mary Berry Chicken Orzo Recipe

This Mary Berry Chicken Orzo Recipe is a comforting one-pot dish that brings together tender chicken, velvety orzo, and a flavorful broth infused with fresh herbs and vegetables. With its rich yet light consistency, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. The orzo absorbs all the delicious flavors from the seasoned broth, creating a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream.

Inspired by Mary Berry’s love for simple yet elegant dishes, this recipe is easy to prepare while delivering restaurant-quality results. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and a hint of lemon makes it both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main or a side dish, this chicken orzo is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Recipe at a Glance

Here’s a quick overview of the key details for this recipe:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Dietary Suitability: Nut-free

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious chicken orzo dish:

• 2 chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 3 cups chicken stock
• ½ cup white wine (optional)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Substitutes and Optional Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: Can be used instead of chicken breasts for extra juiciness.
• Vegetable stock: Swap chicken stock for a vegetarian version (without chicken) by using vegetable broth.
• Spinach or kale: Stir in some greens at the end for added nutrition.
• White wine substitute: Use extra chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice.

Equipment You’ll Need for Chicken Orzo

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater

Mary Berry Chicken Orzo Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Step-Specific Tips or Notes

• For a richer flavor, let the onions caramelize slightly before adding the orzo.
• If the orzo absorbs too much liquid, add a little more broth to loosen the consistency.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a small knob of butter at the end before serving.

Nutrition Facts & Dietary Info

Each recipe contains 4 servings, and each serving has the following nutrition profile:

This dish is nut-free and can be adapted to be vegetarian by swapping chicken for chickpeas or extra vegetables.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• One-pot convenience. This dish comes together in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Deliciously creamy texture. The orzo absorbs all the flavors and creates a creamy consistency without heavy cream.
• Great for meal prep. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Orzo

• Use High-Quality Stock – The broth is a key component, so opt for a flavorful homemade or good-quality store-bought stock.
• Don’t Overcook the Orzo – It should be tender but not mushy; remove from heat as soon as it reaches the right texture.
• Finish with Fresh Lemon Juice – This enhances the flavors and keeps the dish from tasting too heavy.

Fun Variations & Ingredient Swaps

• Make it Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer texture.
• Add More Vegetables – Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can add extra nutrients.
• Try a Different Protein – Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Overcooking the orzo. It should be tender but not mushy, so check it near the end of cooking.
• Adding too much liquid too fast. Add the stock gradually to prevent the dish from getting too watery.
• Forgetting to season. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for the best flavor.

How to Store & Serve Chicken Orzo

Storing

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – While orzo can become softer when frozen, you can still freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Serving

• Reheat on the Stovetop – Add a splash of chicken stock while reheating to restore the creamy texture.
• Pair with a Side Salad – A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Related Recipe: How to make Mary Berry Coronation Chicken Recipe

Mary Berry Chicken Orzo Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even arborio rice for a risotto-like texture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace the chicken with chickpeas or mushrooms and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the dish ahead and store it in the fridge. When reheating, add a bit of extra broth to bring back the creamy consistency.

Conclusion

Mary Berry chicken orzo recipe is a simple yet elegant meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked orzo for a creamy and comforting dish. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try, and you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!