Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with "Ron's Spanish Chicken Rice," a vibrant and flavorful dish that transports you straight to the heart of Spain! This one-pan wonder combines succulent chicken thighs with aromatic spices, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you'll have a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure—let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cutting chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, dicing the bell pepper, chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the spices.
- Heat a large skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat with a small amount of olive oil.
- Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot pan and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and partially cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate, keeping it warm.
- In the same pan, add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add minced garlic and diced bell peppers, cooking for another 2 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Pour in the rice and stir to coat it with the vegetable mixture, toasting it lightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth to the pan, stirring to combine all ingredients and prevent rice from sticking.
- Return the partially cooked chicken to the pan, nestling the pieces into the rice mixture.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking, then fluff the rice and serve hot.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and season the chicken thighs ahead of time. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
- Use Quality Chicken Broth: For the best flavor, opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth. It enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Sear the Chicken Well: Make sure to get a nice golden brown on the chicken before removing it from the pan. This adds depth of flavor to the entire dish.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Once you add the chicken broth, let it simmer on low heat. This allows the rice to absorb all the delicious flavors without becoming mushy.
- Fluff Before Serving: After resting, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. This will give your dish an appealing texture.
- Garnish for Color: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a garnish before serving. It not only adds a pop of color but also freshness to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
