Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to Spain? The "Spanish One Pan Chicken" is not just a meal; it's a vibrant celebration of flavors, colors, and aromas that will make your kitchen feel like a festive tapas bar! With succulent chicken thighs, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this dish is both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this one-pan wonder promises to impress and satisfy. Dive into this article to discover how to create a mouthwatering Spanish feast that your family and friends will rave about!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables: slice bell pepper, chop onion, mince garlic, and set aside.
- Season chicken thighs generously with paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides, ensuring even coating.
- Heat a large skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Place seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan, cooking for 5-7 minutes until skin becomes golden and crispy.
- Flip chicken thighs and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, then remove from pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Add sliced bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in rice and chicken broth, stirring to combine and distribute ingredients evenly.
- Carefully place seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot directly from the pan.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Save time by prepping your ingredients in advance. Chop your vegetables and season your chicken thighs ahead of time, so you can quickly assemble the dish when you're ready to cook.
- Sear for Flavor: Don't skip the step of searing the chicken thighs! This not only adds a delicious crispy skin but also infuses the pan with rich flavors that will enhance the entire dish.
- Use Quality Broth: The flavor of your chicken broth can make a big difference. Opt for homemade or a high-quality store-bought broth to elevate the taste of the rice and chicken.
- Don't Rush the Simmer: Allow the dish to simmer gently with the lid on. This helps the rice absorb all the flavors and ensures that the chicken stays juicy and tender.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness right before serving. It’s a simple touch that makes a big impact!
- Serve Family-Style: For a true Spanish experience, serve the dish directly from the pan at the table, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy the communal aspect of dining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 424kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
