Chicken Paella

Chicken Paella Recipe - A Taste of Spain

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chicken Paella is a classic Spanish dish that is known for its flavorful combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is both delicious and satisfying.

History

Paella originated in the Valencia region of Spain, where it was traditionally made with a combination of rice, vegetables, and meat. Over time, different variations of paella have been created, including the popular Chicken Paella. This dish has become a staple in Spanish cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

12 chicken thighs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup uncooked rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 cup chicken broth
1 can (8 oz (227 g)) stewed tomatoes, undrained and chopped
0.5 tsp paprika
0.5 tsp dried oregano
0.13 tsp ground saffron
1 small red pepper, cut into strips
1 small green pepper, cut into strips
0.5 cup frozen green peas

How to prepare

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Add the chicken to hot oil in a Dutch oven or "paellero" and cook over medium-high heat. Turn to brown both sides, then remove from the skillet and keep warm.
Add the rice, onion, and garlic. Cook, stirring, until the onion is transparent and the rice is lightly browned.
Add the broth, tomatoes and juice, paprika, oregano, and saffron. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the chicken pieces, pepper strips, and peas. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Variations

Add seafood such as shrimp or mussels for a seafood paella.
Use different vegetables such as artichokes or asparagus for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well before cooking to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Use a Dutch oven or "paellero" to cook the paella for best results.

- Be sure to stir the rice occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- Let the paella rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Paella can be served with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before adding it to the paella adds flavor to the dish.

- Simmering the paella covered allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for a leaner option.

- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Chicken Paella can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Paella in a large serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Chicken Paella pairs well with a crisp white wine such as a Spanish Albariño or a light red wine such as a Spanish Tempranillo.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Chicken Paella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Paella contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Paella contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Paella contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Paella contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Paella is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Chicken Paella contains gluten from the rice and may contain allergens from the chicken broth.

Summary

Chicken Paella is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Chicken Paella is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. With its flavorful combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Chicken Paella. It was a warm summer day, with the sun shining brightly and a gentle breeze blowing through the kitchen window. I was rummaging through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother, searching for inspiration for dinner.

As I flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on a worn piece of paper tucked between the pages. Curious, I pulled it out and unfolded it carefully. To my delight, it was a handwritten recipe for Chicken Paella, complete with detailed instructions and a list of ingredients.

I had heard of Paella before, a traditional Spanish dish made with rice, saffron, and an assortment of meats and vegetables. But I had never attempted to make it myself. Excitement bubbled up inside me as I read through the recipe, imagining the delicious flavors and aromas that would fill my kitchen.

The recipe had been given to my grandmother by a dear friend who had traveled to Spain many years ago. She had learned to make Chicken Paella from a local chef during her stay, and had been kind enough to share the recipe with my grandmother.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, carefully measuring out the rice, saffron, chicken, and vegetables. As I chopped and diced, the kitchen filled with the savory scents of garlic, onions, and peppers, mingling with the earthy aroma of the saffron.

I followed the instructions meticulously, simmering the rice in a flavorful broth until it had absorbed all the rich flavors. I added the tender pieces of chicken, allowing them to cook until they were perfectly seasoned and golden brown. The vibrant colors of the vegetables added a beautiful contrast to the dish, making it as visually appealing as it was delicious.

As the Chicken Paella cooked on the stove, I couldn't help but reminisce about the many recipes I had collected over the years. Each one held a special memory for me, whether it was a dish shared with loved ones at a family gathering or a recipe passed down through generations.

I thought about my grandmother, who had taught me so much about cooking and baking. She had instilled in me a love for creating delicious meals from scratch, using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. I could still picture her standing at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling soup or shaping a batch of homemade bread with skilled hands.

As the Chicken Paella finished cooking, I carefully spooned it onto a large platter, garnishing it with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of paprika. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas beckoned me to dig in, and I couldn't resist taking a bite.

The flavors were exquisite, each mouthful bursting with the savory goodness of the chicken, the sweetness of the peppers, and the subtle spice of the saffron. It was a dish that transported me to faraway lands, evoking memories of sunny days spent in bustling marketplaces and cozy cafes.

As I savored each bite of the Chicken Paella, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the wonderful recipes that had been passed down to me. They were more than just instructions for creating delicious meals – they were a connection to my past, a way to honor the traditions and memories of those who had come before me.

And so, as I finished my meal and cleaned up the kitchen, I made a promise to myself to continue exploring new recipes and sharing them with my own loved ones. For in each dish I cooked, I found a piece of my heritage and a reminder of the joy that comes from creating something beautiful and delicious to share with others.