Spanish Chicken Rice is one of those comforting dishes that brings a taste of home and warmth to your dinner table. This recipe features tender chicken, delicious rice, and a medley of rich, aromatic spices that create a symphony of flavors. If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, this one-pan wonder is your answer. Let’s dive into how to make this amazing dish!

Why You’ll Love This Spanish Chicken Rice

This Spanish Chicken Rice dish is not only delicious but also incredibly practical. First, it’s a one-pot Spanish chicken rice meal, which means less cleanup for you. Second, it offers a perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a complete meal. Third, it’s packed with flavor thanks to the best spices for Spanish chicken rice, including paprika and turmeric. Fourth, the recipe is flexible; you can easily add vegetables or adjust spices to suit your taste. Fifth, it can be prepared in just 45 minutes, which makes it a quick Spanish chicken and rice dinner option for busy weeknights. Finally, it’s suitable for various dietary needs, including gluten-free diets.

Ingredients for Spanish Chicken Rice

Gather these items:

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric (or saffron)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Spanish Chicken Rice Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side until golden. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, cook diced onion for 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Step 3: Add rice, turmeric, paprika, and any additional spices. Stir to coat the rice and toast slightly for 1 minute.
4. Step 4: Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any bits. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
5. Step 5: Place chicken thighs back into the pan. Bring the liquid to a simmer, reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
6. Step 6: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add peas (optional). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Spanish Chicken Rice

Keep these in mind:

• Use high-quality chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
• Experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
• This recipe is cooked stovetop, making it easy to monitor and adjust flavors as needed.

Best Ways to Serve Spanish Chicken Rice

Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Pair your Spanish rice with chicken with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
• Top with a squeeze of lemon or lime for a zesty twist.

How to Store and Reheat Spanish Chicken Rice

To ensure your Spanish Chicken Rice stays fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture, or microwave it until heated through. This makes for a great meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Spanish Chicken Rice

What’s the secret to perfect Spanish Chicken Rice?

The secret lies in the quality of your spices and chicken broth. Using fresh ingredients and allowing the rice to absorb the flavors creates a rich and satisfying dish.

Can I make Spanish Chicken Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving, and consider adding extra broth to keep the rice moist.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Spanish Chicken Rice?

Ensure you don’t overcook the rice, as it can become mushy. Also, be mindful of seasoning; taste as you go to achieve the desired flavor.

Variations of Spanish Chicken Rice You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are a few variations:

• Add shrimp for a seafood twist on the traditional Spanish chicken rice.
• Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful dish.
• Try using brown rice instead of white for a healthier option.
• For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

For more delicious recipes, check out this homemade tomato sauce or spaghetti with garlic and oil. You might also enjoy a Mediterranean chickpea salad for a refreshing side!

Spanish Chicken Rice: 5 Secrets to a Flavorful Delight

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Homemade One-Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice: A Flavorful, Easy Dinner

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Spanish
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric (or saffron)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side until golden. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, cook diced onion for 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Add rice, turmeric, paprika, and any additional spices. Stir to coat the rice and toast slightly for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any bits. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
5. Place chicken thighs back into the pan. Bring the liquid to a simmer, reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
6. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add peas (optional). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve!

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg