There is plenty to enjoy in a dish that combines tender chicken thighs with smoky chorizo, colourful peppers, beans, olives, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This Mary Berry Mediterranean chicken thighs with chorizo recipe brings these ingredients together in a rustic one-pan meal, with golden chicken, bubbling sauce, and melted cheese creating a satisfying finish.
The recipe provides everything needed to prepare and serve the dish, from the useful equipment and ingredient list to the step-by-step cooking method. You will also find practical tips, serving ideas, storage guidance, answers to common questions, and the available nutrition information to help you plan the meal.
Equipment
To prepare this recipe successfully, you need a few basic kitchen tools that help with chopping, cooking, and baking. A sturdy ovenproof casserole dish or cast iron pan is especially useful because it allows the chicken and sauce to cook evenly before finishing in the oven.
- Large ovenproof skillet – useful for browning the chicken and cooking the chorizo before baking.
- Cast iron pan – helps retain heat and creates even cooking throughout the dish.
- Ovenproof casserole dish – ideal for transferring the meal from the stovetop directly into the oven.
- Sharp knife – needed for slicing chorizo and preparing vegetables.
- Chopping board – provides a safe surface for cutting ingredients.
- Wooden spoon – useful for stirring the sauce and combining ingredients.
- Measuring jug – helps measure liquids such as chicken stock accurately.
- Ladle – makes it easier to serve the rich tomato sauce.
- Cheese grater – useful for grating Parmesan or Cheddar topping.
- Paper towels – help pat the chicken dry before cooking.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
This Mary Berry Mediterranean chicken thighs with chorizo recipe uses simple ingredients to create a rich and comforting meal full of flavour. The combination of bone-in skin-on chicken thighs, smoky Spanish chorizo, vegetables, herbs, and a tomato-based sauce creates a delicious homemade dinner. Fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients come together beautifully for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Bone-in skin-on chicken thighs | 8 |
| Chorizo sliced | 200 g |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Large red onion cut into wedges | 1 |
| Red pepper | 1 |
| Yellow pepper | 1 |
| Garlic cloves crushed | 2 |
| Chopped tomatoes | 400 g |
| Tomato purée | 2 tbsp |
| Cannellini beans drained | 400 g |
| Black olives | 50 g |
| Chicken stock | 150 ml |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Light muscovado sugar | 1 tsp |
| Fresh parsley chopped | As needed |
| Grated Parmesan | 50 g |
| Grated Cheddar | 50 g |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
How to Make Mary Berry Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Chorizo
- Preheat the oven to 200°C, 180°C Fan, or Gas 6. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken skin-side down and cook until the skin becomes golden and crisp. Turn the chicken skin-side up, cook briefly, then remove and set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Add the sliced chorizo to the pan and fry until it releases its colourful oils. Add the onion wedges and peppers, then cook until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the crushed garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Add the tomato purée, chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, and sugar, then mix well to create the rich tomato base.
- Add the cannellini beans and black olives to the sauce. Allow everything to simmer for 8–10 minutes until the flavours start to combine.
- Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce with the skin facing upwards. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes.
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle over the grated Parmesan and Cheddar. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Finish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. The sauce should have bubbling edges and the chicken should be tender with a rich Mediterranean flavour.
Expert Tips for Mary Berry Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Chorizo
A few simple techniques can make this recipe even better. From my cooking experience, taking time to brown the chicken and build the sauce flavours creates a more delicious result. These tips help avoid common mistakes and ensure a tender, flavourful Mediterranean chicken dish every time.
- Pat the chicken dry for crispier skin before cooking, as moisture can prevent the skin from becoming golden.
- Use a good-quality Spanish chorizo because it adds deeper flavour and richer oils to the sauce.
- Brown the meat first to help build flavour and create a more satisfying finished dish.
- Add a splash of red wine or white wine for extra depth if you want a slightly richer sauce.
- Avoid covering the chicken while baking, as this can create soggy skin instead of a crispy finish.
- For a quicker option, use boneless chicken thighs and reduce the cooking time by 5–10 minutes.
- Try simple ingredient substitutions such as adding courgette, zucchini, aubergine, or eggplant for extra vegetables.
- Add mushrooms or capers if you enjoy stronger Mediterranean flavours and more texture.
- Make ahead when possible, as the dish often tastes even better the next day after the flavours develop.
- For a hands-off option, this recipe can work well in a slow cooker cooked on low for 4–5 hours.
Serving Suggestions
How to serve Mary Berry Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Chorizo:
This Mary Berry Mediterranean chicken thighs with chorizo recipe makes a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinner, casual gatherings, or a relaxed weeknight dinner. Serve hot with simple sides and fresh garnishes to highlight the rich Mediterranean flavours and balanced textures of this hearty homemade dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a fresh colour and herbal finish.
- Serve with long-grain rice or long-grain and wild rice to soak up the rich tomato sauce.
- Pair with fluffy couscous for a lighter Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Add green beans or other lighter sides for a balanced dinner plate.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a cosy dinner or casual entertaining.
- Serve as an easy supper with warm bread to enjoy the savoury sauce.
- Finish the meal with a light dessert such as fruit salad or lemon-based treats.
- This recipe is ideal for a comforting dinner that serves 4 people and can stretch to serve 6 with extra sides.
Storage
How to store Mary Berry Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Chorizo:
Room Temperature
- Allow leftovers to cool slightly before storing.
- Do not leave the cooked chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
- Transfer leftovers into airtight containers once cooled.
Refrigerator
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Keep the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for the best quality.
- Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Warm gently on the stovetop and add a small splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F), covered with foil for 15–20 minutes.
Freezer
- This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe airtight containers.
- Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat slowly until piping hot, adding a little liquid if the sauce becomes thick.
- The recipe can be made up to a day ahead and freezes well.
FAQs
Q: Can I substitute the chorizo in this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the chorizo with another sausage or a certified safe alternative. Keep in mind that chorizo adds smoky flavour and colourful oils, so the final taste may be slightly different.
Q: Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, skinless chicken thighs, or skin-on chicken thighs. If using boneless pieces, reduce the baking time by 5–10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Q: How can I make the chicken skin crispy?
For crispy skin, pat the chicken dry before cooking and brown it well in the pan first. Avoid covering the dish while baking, as steam can soften the skin.
Q: Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, this is an adaptable recipe. You can add courgette, zucchini, aubergine, eggplant, mushrooms, or capers for extra flavour and texture.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it safely until needed. The flavours often improve after resting, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Q: Can I freeze Mary Berry Mediterranean chicken thighs with chorizo?
Yes, the recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Store it in airtight containers and defrost overnight before reheating thoroughly.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours until the chicken is tender and the flavours have developed.
Q: Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes, replace the chicken and chorizo with plant-based sausage, extra vegetables, and veggie stock. Use cannellini beans instead of meat for a filling vegetarian version.
Nutrition
The nutrition information for this Mary Berry Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Chorizo thighs with chorizo recipe is an estimate based on the ingredients and serving size. Values can vary depending on the exact products used, portion sizes, and any ingredient substitutions.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fibre | 13 g |
| Sodium/Salt | 720 mg |