Youvetsi with Chicken and Orzo by Litsa!
The Greek love affair with the famous Orzo! We love orzo and we use it in so many recipes, like the famous Youvetsi!
A Greek casserole!
So very comforting for every Greek person on the planet!
A Sunday meal, usually done with Veal or Lamb!
Chicken is a nice variation and it’s faster, especially if you follow my recipe, done in 30 minutes!
We also love Orzo in Soups and salads!
I think it is the preferred pasta of the Greek people!
We just need an excuse to use Orzo, how about that!
Do you have 30 minutes?
Let’s do it!
Here is what you will need
6 chicken thighs (all visible fat removed)
1 onion diced
1 clove garlic smashed
¼ cup olive oil
½ cup red wine
1 cup prepared tomato sauce
1 cinnamon stick
½ tsp sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken stock
2 cups Orzo, make sure the Orzo is 100% semolina for best results
3 cups hot water + if necessary
Here is how to make Youvetsi with Orzo
In a heavy pan add oil and onion and sauté for a few minutes.
Add chicken and garlic and sauté for a few more minutes, turning chicken over.
Deglaze with the wine.
Add the tomato sauce, chicken stock, cinnamon stick, salt pepper and sugar. Cover and cook for 15 minutes.
At this point add the Orzo, and 3 cups hot water, stir to distribute Orzo evenly!
Adjust heat to medium and cook your Youvetsi another 10 minutes, uncovered and with your undivided attention, stirring and adding hot water if it becomes necessary.The same procedure as you make risotto!You cook the pasta al dente!
When done, remove from the heat and let the Youvetsi rest for a few minutes before serving.
Your Youvetsi with Orzo ie ready!
Serve with a good quality grated cheese! Great comfort food and so easy!
Litsa!