Chicken Paella Recipe

Chicken Paella is a classic Spanish dish that is packed with flavors and colors. This one-pot wonder is a delicious combination of chicken, rice, and various vegetables, all seasoned with saffron and paprika. Perfect for a family gathering or an intimate dinner, this recipe will become a household favorite in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 1/2 cups short-grain Arborio rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup green peas, frozen
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the pan and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the smoked paprika, saffron, salt, and black pepper and stir well.
5. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and cook for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the rice and chicken broth and stir well to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Simmer for 20 minutes.
8. After 20 minutes, remove the lid and scatter the frozen peas over the top of the rice. Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Remove the pan from the heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
10. Serve with lemon wedges and chopped parsley, if desired.

Verdict

Chicken Paella is a rustic and hearty dish that never fails to impress. Smoky, savory, and slightly sweet, this classic Spanish dish is comfort food at its finest. You can customize this recipe to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the chicken for seafood or pork. Regardless of how you make it, this dish will surely delight your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Paella is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water would make a refreshing accompaniment as well.