Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something flavorful, vibrant, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this incredible Paella Crock Pot recipe! This twist on the classic Spanish dish brings all the deliciousness without the fuss of constant stovetop attention. It's the perfect blend of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people and uses readily available ingredients, making it a simple yet satisfying meal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (optional, but adds beautiful color and flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
This step-by-step guide ensures a perfectly cooked Paella every time, even for beginner cooks.
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Combine ingredients in the crock pot: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), rice, chicken broth, smoked paprika, saffron (if using), and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
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Add chicken and cook: Add the chicken pieces to the slow cooker. Stir gently to distribute them evenly. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
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Stir in peas and parsley: During the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and fresh parsley. This adds a burst of freshness and vibrant green color.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the Paella is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Paella:
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy. Follow the cooking time guidelines carefully.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Add other proteins: This recipe is easily adaptable. Feel free to add shrimp, chorizo, or mussels for a more traditional Paella experience.
- Use good quality saffron: If you use saffron, opt for high-quality threads for the best flavor and color.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Paella: Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of cooked chickpeas or other beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Seafood Paella: Substitute the chicken with 1 pound of your favorite seafood, such as shrimp, mussels, or clams. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy Paella Crock Pot recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. It’s a versatile and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!