Paella with Chicken and Mussels

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups Arborio or short-grain rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Pinch of saffron threads
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth and white wine.
2. In a large paella pan or heavy skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and red bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, saffron, salt, and black pepper, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Add the rice and mix well to coat with the oil and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice starts to turn translucent.
7. Pour in the chicken broth mixture and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
8. Add the mussels and continue to simmer for another 6-8 minutes, or until the mussels have opened up and the rice is tender. Discard any mussels that do not open.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Verdict:

This Paella with Chicken and Mussels recipe is not only delicious, but it is also a feast for the eyes. The combination of chicken and seafood make for a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to impress any dinner guests. The saffron and smoked paprika add depth and complexity to the rice, while the mussels bring a nice briny flavor to the dish. Overall, this paella recipe is satisfying and perfect for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish is best enjoyed with a glass of dry white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño. Serve the paella with a simple green salad or crusty bread to sop up the rich sauce. For a more festive occasion, consider adding other seafood such as clams, squid, or shrimp to the dish. Enjoy!