Kotopoulo Giouvetsi

Kotopoulo Giouvetsi is a comforting, traditional Greek dish that combines roasted chicken with orzo pasta in a rich, savory sauce. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it bakes slowly, infusing the orzo and vegetables with deep flavor. Key ingredients like plum tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and garlic create a robust base, enhanced by warm spices like cumin and a splash of brandy for complexity. The result is a hearty, protein-packed meal with a satisfying texture where the pasta absorbs the delicious pan juices. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something warm and inviting. Its a wonderful way to bring authentic Greek flavors to your table with minimal cleanup, making it a favorite for weeknight cooking or special gatherings.

Cooking Method: Baking

Cuisine: Greek

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Calories: 159.2

Dietary: Gluten-free

Description

Kotopoulo Giouvetsi is a comforting, traditional Greek dish that combines roasted chicken with orzo pasta in a rich, savory sauce. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it bakes slowly, infusing the orzo and vegetables with deep flavor. Key ingredients like plum tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and garlic create a robust base, enhanced by warm spices like cumin and a splash of brandy for complexity. The result is a hearty, protein-packed meal with a satisfying texture where the pasta absorbs the delicious pan juices. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something warm and inviting. Its a wonderful way to bring authentic Greek flavors to your table with minimal cleanup, making it a favorite for weeknight cooking or special gatherings.

Ingredients

1 md Roasting chicken (3-4 lbs)
3 tablespoon Olive oil
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
1.5 c Orzo
3 md Onions; coarsely chopped
2 cloves Garlic cloves; minced
2 lg Bell peppers; cored, seeded, and finely chopped
1 c Peeled, chopped plum tomatoes
0.5 ts Ground cumin
0.33 c Brandy
4 c Water
for serving Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1
Preheat oven to 450F (232C).
2
Wash the chicken and rub the outside and inside with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3
Season the chicken skin generously with salt and pepper.
4
Place the chicken in a medium-to-large baking pan, preferably glass or clay.
5
Spread the orzo evenly around the chicken in the pan.
6
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, cumin, brandy, and water to the pan.
7
Toss the vegetables and liquids gently in the pan to combine around the chicken, ensuring not to disturb the orzo too much.
8
Place the uncovered pan in the hot oven and immediately reduce the heat to 350F (177C).
9
Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, basting the chicken every 10 to 15 minutes with the pan juices.
10
Check the orzo periodically; if it appears too dry, add a little more water to ensure it cooks properly.
11
Bake until the chicken is tender and the orzo is cooked through.
12
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 159.2kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 14.2g22%
Saturated Fat 2.4g12%
Cholesterol 22.2mg8%
Sodium 20.5mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 6.8g14%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water if the orzo has absorbed all the liquid.

Substitutions: You can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor. If you prefer not to use alcohol, replace the brandy with an equal amount of chicken broth.

Tip: Use a heavy-bottomed baking dish to ensure even heat distribution. If the orzo is not fully cooked after the chicken is done, cover the pan tightly with foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes.

Keywords: greek, chicken, orzo, giouvetsi, kotopoulo, roast, one-pot, comfort food, dinner, tomato sauce, bell peppers, garlic, onion, cumin, brandy, parmesan, baking, family meal

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/kotopoulo-giouvetsi/