This Chicken and Chorizo Paella brings the bold and sunny flavors of Spain right to your dinner table with minimal effort. The combination of smoky paprika-seasoned chicken, spicy chorizo, and tender vegetables cooked in aromatic rice is a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. The golden hue of turmeric and saffron, paired with bright bell peppers and peas, creates a vibrant, crowd-pleasing plate that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. No need to travel far this Spanish classic is ready in just 40 minutes from your own kitchen.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon turmeric
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1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup arborio or short-grain rice
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2 1/4 cups chicken broth
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1/2 cup frozen peas
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1/2 pound Spanish-style chorizo, sliced
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions:
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In a large skillet or paella pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, turmeric, and saffron threads (if using).
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Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, sauté the onion and red bell pepper until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
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Stir in garlic and rice; cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low.
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Return the chicken to the pan, add the peas and chorizo, and stir gently.
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Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
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Remove from heat, fluff gently, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 435 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Discover the Magic of Chicken and Chorizo Paella
Chicken and Chorizo Paella is a delicious and colorful dish that brings together the bold, rustic flavors of Spain in a way that’s approachable for home cooks. This hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, offering a rich blend of textures, aromas, and spices that create a memorable culinary experience. With vibrant spices, juicy chicken, and smoky chorizo all nestled into perfectly cooked rice, this version of paella celebrates Spanish tradition with a simplified, modern twist.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins and cultural significance of paella, dive into what makes this Chicken and Chorizo version so special, and share expert tips on how to make your dish come out perfectly every time. Whether you’re new to Spanish cuisine or already a fan of Mediterranean flavors, this recipe is a must-try addition to your meal rotation.
A Brief History of Paella: A Spanish Culinary Icon
Paella originates from the region of Valencia, on the eastern coast of Spain, and has long been considered one of the country’s most iconic dishes. Traditionally cooked in a wide, shallow pan called a “paellera,” paella was initially a humble peasant dish made with local ingredients often rabbit, snails, and seasonal vegetables.
As the dish evolved and spread across Spain and beyond, countless regional and modern adaptations emerged. Today, you’ll find versions featuring seafood, chicken, sausage, and even vegetarian renditions, all reflecting local tastes and ingredient availability.
The Chicken and Chorizo version is not a strictly “Valencian” paella by definition purists might argue it’s a variation but it has become incredibly popular in home kitchens and restaurants around the world for its deep flavor and accessibility. The use of smoky Spanish-style chorizo adds a bold kick that perfectly complements the tender chicken and savory rice.
The Flavor Profile: Bold, Balanced, and Irresistible
What makes Chicken and Chorizo Paella so satisfying is its combination of robust, layered flavors. The dish starts with chicken thighs, which are seasoned generously with smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. These spices not only enhance the flavor of the chicken but also infuse the entire pan with warmth and depth.
Then comes the chorizo typically a Spanish variety, which is cured and seasoned with paprika and garlic. As the sausage cooks, it releases flavorful oils that mingle with the rice and aromatics, giving the whole dish a smoky, spicy undertone that’s signature to this version of paella.
Vegetables like bell peppers and onions add sweetness and texture, while garlic and saffron (or turmeric, as a budget-friendly substitute) bring a rich aroma and golden hue. The rice soaks up all of these incredible flavors as it cooks in a fragrant broth, resulting in a cohesive and crave-worthy dish.
Finally, frozen peas provide a pop of color and a gentle sweetness that balances out the boldness of the other ingredients. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon, the result is a dish that’s both rustic and elegant, comforting yet vibrant.
Why This Recipe Works: Simplicity and Depth in One Pot
One of the most appealing aspects of this Chicken and Chorizo Paella is that it’s both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. Unlike traditional paella that may require special pans or hard-to-source ingredients, this recipe is streamlined for everyday cooks. It’s made entirely in one skillet or sauté pan and doesn’t require constant stirring or elaborate prep work.
Instead of bomba rice (a specialty short-grain rice used in classic paella), this version can be made with arborio or another short-grain rice, which still yields that tender but toothsome texture that paella is known for. Using chicken broth instead of water adds even more richness to the dish, ensuring that every bite is infused with flavor.
The method of browning the chicken first allows it to develop a flavorful crust while sealing in juices. Cooking the rice in the same pan ensures that none of those delicious brown bits go to waste everything contributes to the final taste.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Chorizo Paella
While this dish is straightforward, a few expert tips can help you elevate your paella game to the next level:
1. Use High-Quality Chorizo
Look for Spanish-style chorizo if available it’s typically firmer, smokier, and more deeply flavored than Mexican chorizo, which is often raw and spicier. The flavor of your chorizo significantly affects the final dish, so choose a good one.
2. Let the Rice Rest After Cooking
Once the paella is cooked, let it rest covered for 5–10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and gives the rice a chance to settle, making it easier to serve and even more flavorful.
3. Don’t Over-Stir
Paella is not risotto. Resist the urge to stir frequently once the liquid has been added. Letting the rice sit allows it to form a desirable crispy bottom layer known as socarrat a hallmark of a well-made paella.
4. Customize It with Seasonal Veggies
While peas and peppers are standard, feel free to experiment with artichokes, green beans, or even mushrooms depending on what’s in season. This adds versatility and keeps the dish exciting year-round.
5. Garnish with Lemon and Herbs
Fresh parsley and lemon wedges not only brighten the flavors but also provide visual contrast that makes the dish pop on the plate.
Health Benefits: Hearty Yet Nutritious
This dish strikes a wonderful balance between indulgence and nutrition. Lean chicken provides high-quality protein, while chorizo, though richer, adds satisfying depth and only a modest amount is needed for flavor. The abundance of vegetables contributes vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and rice serves as an energy-boosting base.
If you’re looking to make it even lighter, you can substitute chicken breast for thighs or use a lower-fat turkey sausage in place of chorizo. Brown rice can also be used, though it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
Chicken and Chorizo Paella is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast, and warm crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover juices.
If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving it family-style right from the pan for a dramatic presentation. Pair it with a glass of Spanish red wine or a chilled white sangria for a true Mediterranean experience.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave. In fact, many fans say it tastes even better the next day!
Conclusion:
Chicken and Chorizo Paella is one of those dishes that feels both comforting and exciting a celebration of flavor, color, and texture in one easy-to-make meal. With its bold spices, satisfying protein, and tender rice, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.
It’s also a wonderful way to bring a touch of Spanish tradition into your kitchen without needing specialized tools or ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a festive meal for guests, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
