Spanish Chicken and Rice Recipe
Succulent chicken, fragrant spices, and fluffy rice come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that is delicious.
Servings 4 People
Calories 196kcal
Equipment
- 1 Cast Iron Skillet
Ingredients
- Chicken - Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for maximum flavor and tenderness. You can use a whole chicken cut into pieces, or opt for specific pieces like thighs or drumsticks.
- Rice - Traditional Spanish recipes call for short-grain rice, such as Arborio or Calasparra rice. These varieties absorb flavors well and create a creamy texture.
- Onion - A sweet or yellow onion adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic - The aromatic essence of garlic is crucial in Spanish cuisine. Use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
- Bell peppers - Red and green bell peppers add vibrant color and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
- Tomatoes - Ripe tomatoes provide a rich base for the sauce. Opt for fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes.
- Chicken broth - To infuse the rice with flavor, use chicken broth instead of water.
- Spanish spices - Create an authentic flavor profile with a combination of smoked paprika, saffron threads, and dried oregano.
- Olive oil - A staple in Mediterranean cooking, olive oil adds a fruity and robust flavor to the dish.
- Salt and pepper - Season with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This will ensure that the meat is well-seasoned throughout the cooking process.
- Sear the chicken: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the chicken pieces until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step helps lock in the juices and adds a delicious depth of flavor.
- Sauté the aromatics: Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add diced onions, minced garlic, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, saffron threads, and dried oregano. Allow the flavors to meld together for a minute or two.
- Incorporate the rice: Add the short-grain rice to the pan and stir it into the vegetable mixture. Ensure that each grain is coated with the flavors of the spices and vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, making sure it covers the rice and vegetables. This will allow the rice to cook and absorb all the flavors.
- Arrange the chicken: Nestle the seared chicken pieces into the rice mixture, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. This will help the chicken cook evenly and infuse the rice with its delicious juices.
- Simmer and cook: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Allow the dish to simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this can affect the cooking process.
- Let it rest: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the dish to settle.
- Serve and enjoy: Garnish the Spanish Chicken and Rice with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Serve it hot, straight from the pan, and savor the delightful flavors and textures.
Notes
Tips for enhancing the flavor of Spanish Chicken and Rice
To take your Spanish Chicken and Rice to the next level, consider these tips:- Marinate the chicken: For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Spanish spices for a few hours before cooking. This will infuse the meat with additional layers of taste.
- Toast the rice: Before adding the rice to the pan, toast it lightly in olive oil. This step adds a nutty flavor and enhances the texture of the rice.
- Use homemade chicken broth: If time permits, prepare your own chicken broth by simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs. Homemade broth adds a depth of flavor that store-bought varieties may lack.
- Add chorizo or other proteins: For a heartier version of the dish, consider adding slices of Spanish chorizo or other proteins like shrimp or mussels. These additions will introduce new flavors and textures to the recipe.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish. The acidity will brighten the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
- Let it rest: As tempting as it may be to dig in immediately, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and results in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
Nutrition
Serving: 200g | Calories: 196kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 2.4g