Ingredients
Protein & Veggies:
- 450g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs, cubed
- 225g (8 oz) Spanish chorizo (sliced; use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 100g (½ cup) frozen peas
Rice & Seasonings:
- 300g (1 ½ cups) Arborio or Bomba rice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp saffron threads (or ¼ tsp turmeric for color)
- 1 (400g / 14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 750ml (3 cups) chicken broth (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 lemon, wedged
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, lemon zest, or aioli
Instructions
- Sear the Protein
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Add chorizo; cook for 2 minutes until oils release. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies
- In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Toast the Rice
- Stir in rice, paprika, and saffron. Toast for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Simmer
- Add tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil. Nestle chicken and chorizo into the rice.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender.
- Finish & Serve
- Scatter peas on top. Cover and rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
Extra Tips
✨ Seafood Twist: Add 200g shrimp or mussels in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
✨ Vegetarian: Swap chicken/chorizo for 1 can chickpeas + 1 tsp smoked salt.
✨ Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp chili flakes with the paprika.
✨ Crispy Bottom (Socarrat): Uncover and increase heat for the last 2 minutes.
FAQ's
Can I use Mexican chorizo?
Yes! Remove casing, crumble, and cook fully before adding veggies.
How to store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, if using GF chorizo and broth.
No saffron?
Use ¼ tsp turmeric for color (flavor will differ).
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but increase broth to 4 cups and simmer 35–40 minutes.
