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Spanish Chicken and Rice Recipe

Spanish Chicken and Rice Recipe

A warm, smoky, saffron-kissed one-pot chicken and rice recipe inspired by traditional Spanish flavors, made with juicy chicken, paprika, tomatoes, and perfectly seasoned rice.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Chicken Recipes, Easy Dinner ideas
Cuisine: spanish
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken & Rice
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 3 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp sweet paprika
  • Pinch of saffron threads or ½ tsp turmeric as substitute
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup peas optional
  • Fresh parsley or lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wide pan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Foil or lid

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, then sear it in olive oil until golden on all sides.
  2. Remove the chicken and sauté onions, bell pepper, and garlic until soft and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the rice and toast it in the pan to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent mushiness.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, saffron (or turmeric), sweet paprika, and adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice so the flavors blend deeply.
  6. Cover and simmer on low heat until the rice is fluffy and the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  7. Fold in peas if using, let the dish rest for 5 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork.
  8. Serve warm with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for brightness and balance.

Notes

  • Bone-in chicken gives the richest flavor, but boneless thighs also work beautifully.
  • Toasting the rice prevents mushy texture and builds deeper Spanish flavor.
  • Add chorizo for smoky heat or swap in shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Leftovers reheat well and make excellent meal prep.
Spanish Chicken and Rice Recipe
Spanish Chicken and Rice Recipe