Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that transports you to the sun-drenched shores of Spain? Look no further! This easy chicken paella recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Forget complicated paella recipes; this version is surprisingly simple, yet delivers all the authentic tastes you love. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals made easy, perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas without sacrificing deliciousness.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough for 4 servings.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp saffron threads
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ cup frozen green beans
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
This easy-to-follow recipe ensures even beginner cooks can create a restaurant-quality paella.
-
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or wide, shallow skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes, until slightly tender.
-
Toast the rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes, until lightly toasted. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect paella texture!
-
Add the spices and liquid: Stir in the smoked paprika and saffron threads. Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's almost completely absorbed.
-
Simmer the paella: Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is almost cooked through but still slightly firm.
-
Add the chicken and vegetables: Gently stir in the cooked chicken, peas, and green beans. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is cooked through.
-
Rest and serve: Remove the paella from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Tips for the Best Chicken Paella:
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of your paella will be greatly enhanced by using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice will result in a mushy paella. Follow the cooking times carefully.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the paella before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A squeeze of lemon juice can also add brightness.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
Variations:
- Seafood Paella: Substitute the chicken with your favorite seafood, such as shrimp, mussels, and clams.
- Vegetarian Paella: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and zucchini.
- Spicy Paella: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This is an approximate calculation and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This easy chicken paella recipe is a testament to how homemade cooking can be both delicious and straightforward. Enjoy this taste of Spain in the comfort of your own home!