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Braised chicken with orzo

The comforting flavours of braised chicken with orzo: tender chicken pieces simmered in a fragrant broth, mingling with delicate pasta. A vibrant walnut and herb sauce elevates this simple dish to a culinary delight.


Preparation time
less than 30 mins

Cooking time
1 to 2 hours

Serves
Serves 4–6

Dietary
Dairy-free Egg-free Pregnancy-friendly


By Matt Tebbutt
From Saturday Kitchen

Nutri-Score CThis recipe scores a C on the Nutri-Score scale. The chicken provides a good source of protein, while the olive oil contributes healthy fats. However, the processed nature of orzo pasta and the high fat content of the walnut sauce slightly lower the score.

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chicken with orzo

  • whole chicken, jointed into 8 pieces, 1
  • olive oil, 4 tbsp
  • chicken stock, 500ml
  • head garlic, cut in half, 1
  • bay leaf, 1
  • fresh thyme, 15g
  • orzo, 200g
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the sauce

  • walnuts, toasted, 125g
  • fresh coriander, 20g, plus extra to garnish
  • chopped fresh tarragon, 1 tbsp, plus extra to garnish
  • red chillies, roughly chopped, 1–2
  • garlic cloves, roughly chopped, 3
  • lemon, juice only, 1
  • olive oil, 2–4 tbsp

Method

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning at this stage enhances the overall flavour of the dish.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a casserole dish over high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until well-coloured on all sides. Searing adds depth and richness to the flavour of the chicken, creating a delicious base for the braise.
  3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared chicken to a slow cooker, then pour in the chicken stock.
  4. Add Aromatics: Introduce the garlic halves, bay leaf, and fresh thyme to the slow cooker. These aromatics infuse the chicken and broth with a fragrant, herbaceous flavour.
  5. Slow Cook: Cover with the lid and cook for 2 hours on medium. Slow cooking ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender and succulent.
  6. Add Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the slow cooker and cook for a further 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. The orzo absorbs the flavorful broth, becoming plump and delicious.
  7. Check for Doneness: Verify that the chicken is cooked through: the juices should run clear with no trace of pink when the thickest part of the leg is pierced with a skewer. Ensuring the chicken is fully cooked guarantees food safety.
  8. Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, blend the toasted walnuts, fresh coriander, chopped fresh tarragon, chopped red chillies, chopped garlic cloves, and lemon juice in a food processor or blender. Gradually add 2–4 tablespoons of olive oil until a smooth paste forms. Adjust seasoning to taste. This vibrant sauce adds a burst of fresh, zesty flavour.
  9. Combine and Garnish: Serve the chicken and orzo in a serving dish. Pour the prepared sauce over the top and mix gently to combine. Garnish with extra coriander and tarragon sprigs for a pop of colour and aroma. Serve immediately.

Suggested Wine Pairing

Majestic: Definition Gavi
This Italian white wine, with its delicate aromas of citrus and almond, offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the braised chicken and walnut sauce. Its crisp acidity cleanses the palate and enhances the subtle flavours of the dish, making each mouthful a delight. This pairs beautifully with poultry.

Tesco: Finest Vermentino
This white wine presents a delightful array of aromas, including grapefruit, green apple, and a subtle hint of almond. Its bright acidity and mineral undertones provide a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy sauce and the richness of the chicken. The Vermentino’s clean finish ensures a palate-cleansing experience. This is the ideal wine selection.

Sainsbury’s: Taste the Difference Côtes du Rhône Blanc
This French white wine is a blend of grape varieties. With aromas of white peach and honeysuckle, it is the perfect complement to the pasta dish. Its soft acidity and medium body enhance the texture. It pairs well with all kinds of chicken dishes.

What Can You Serve With This?

  1. Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. The bread’s texture contrasts nicely with the smooth orzo and tender chicken.
  2. Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the dish. The salad’s acidity cuts through the richness of the sauce.
  3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as courgettes, peppers, and red onion, complement the flavours of the braised chicken and provide a colourful and nutritious side dish.
  4. Garlic Bread: Garlic bread, with its pungent aroma and crispy texture, provides a comforting and flavourful accompaniment.

Nutri-score Health Check

This recipe scores a C on the Nutri-Score scale. While the chicken is a good source of protein and the olive oil provides healthy fats, the high fat content of the walnut sauce increases the score. The processed nature of orzo contributes less positively. The score has been automatically calculated from the ingredients in the recipe and is only a guide.

Recipe FAQ

  • Can I use different types of pasta? Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes, such as risoni or ditalini.
  • Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and orzo ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
  • How long does the sauce keep in the fridge? The walnut sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Can I freeze this dish? Freezing is not recommended, as the orzo may become mushy upon thawing.

Storing FAQ

  • How long can I store leftover chicken with orzo in the fridge? Leftover chicken with orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Can I freeze the chicken and orzo? Freezing is not recommended, as the orzo may become mushy and the sauce may separate upon thawing.
  • How should I store the walnut sauce? The walnut sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating FAQ

  • What is the best way to reheat chicken with orzo? Gently reheat the chicken with orzo in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of chicken stock or water if needed to prevent it from drying out.
  • Can I reheat chicken with orzo in the microwave? Yes, you can reheat the chicken with orzo in the microwave. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
  • Should I add anything when reheating? Adding a splash of chicken stock or water can help to prevent the orzo from drying out during reheating.

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