Skillet Chicken and Chorizo Paella Recipe

Skillet Chicken and Chorizo Paella Recipe

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

  1. 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.
  2. Sauté Veggies
    • In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Toast the Rice
    • Stir in rice, paprika, and saffron. Toast for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

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