Chicken Chorizo Paella: A Flavour-Packed Spanish Classic
🇪🇸 Introduction: The Charm of Chicken Chorizo Paella
When you think of Spanish cuisine, one dish stands out: Paella. This iconic recipe, traditionally rooted in Valencia, is known for its bold colours, aromatic spices, and heartwarming flavours. But what happens when we add juicy chicken and smoky chorizo to the mix? Magic!
This Chicken Chorizo Paella is the perfect crowd-pleaser – a one-pan wonder that’s not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just fancying a taste of Spain at home, this recipe delivers every time.
Let’s bring a little slice of Spain to your kitchen! 🥘✨
🛒 Ingredients for Chicken Chorizo Paella
To create this Spanish masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:
For the Paella:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on, bone-in 🍗
- 150g chorizo, sliced into rounds 🌶️
- 1 large onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 3 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- 1 red pepper, diced 🌶️
- 1 yellow pepper, diced 🌶️
- 2 ripe tomatoes, grated 🍅
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- A pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp warm water
- 300g paella rice (Arborio or Bomba) 🍚
- 1 litre chicken stock
- 100g frozen peas
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges 🍋
- Fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
Pro Tip: Use Bomba rice for the most authentic paella experience – it absorbs liquid without becoming mushy.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Chicken Chorizo Paella Recipe
1. Sear the Chicken 🍗
- Heat olive oil in a large paella pan or wide skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them skin-side down until golden and crispy. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chorizo 🌶️
- In the same pan, add the sliced chorizo and cook until it releases its rich, smoky oils. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
3. Sauté the Vegetables 🧄🧅
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and peppers to the pan.
- Cook until softened, then stir in the grated tomatoes, smoked paprika, and saffron water.
4. Add the Rice 🍚
- Stir in the rice and let it toast slightly in the flavoured oils and vegetables for 2 minutes.
5. Simmer with Stock 🍲
- Pour in the chicken stock and gently stir to evenly distribute the rice.
- Nestle the chicken thighs and chorizo back into the pan.
- Let simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Finish with Peas & Lemon 🍋
- Add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving.
Pro Tip: Avoid stirring the rice once the stock has been added – this helps develop the prized socarrat (crispy rice layer at the bottom).
🍽️ Serving Suggestions for Chicken Chorizo Paella
- Serve your paella straight from the pan for a rustic touch. 🥘
- Pair with a crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette. 🥗
- Enjoy with a glass of Spanish white wine or a refreshing sangria. 🍷
📦 Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of chicken stock to prevent dryness.
- Freeze: While paella is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving paella, as it can make the rice mushy.
❓ FAQs About Chicken Chorizo Paella
1. Can I Cook Paella in a Regular Pan?
Yes, but a wide, shallow pan works best to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
2. Do I Need to Use Saffron?
Saffron adds the iconic golden hue and unique aroma, but you can substitute with turmeric if needed.
3. Can I Add Seafood to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Add prawns, mussels, or squid during the final 5–10 minutes of cooking.
4. Why Shouldn’t I Stir the Rice While Cooking?
Stirring disrupts the cooking process and prevents the formation of the socarrat – the crispy layer of rice at the bottom.
🥄 Top Tips for the Perfect Chicken Chorizo Paella
- Use quality chorizo for a deep, smoky flavour.
- Let the rice sit undisturbed while cooking.
- Avoid overloading with ingredients – simplicity is key.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added zest.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Chicken Chorizo Paella Recipe
✅ Quick and easy to prepare.
✅ Packed with bold, smoky flavours.
✅ Perfect for sharing with family and friends.
✅ A one-pan dish = less washing up!
This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about bringing people together over a meal that feels both hearty and celebratory.
🎁 Bring Spain to Your Table Tonight! 🥘🇪🇸
Now that you’ve got the perfect Chicken Chorizo Paella recipe in your hands, it’s time to roll up your sleeves, pour a glass of sangria, and let the aroma of saffron and chorizo fill your kitchen.
Whether it’s a cosy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Balance the bold, smoky flavours of your Chicken Chorizo Paella with our Roast Beetroot and Feta Salad. The earthy sweetness of beetroot and tangy feta cheese offer the perfect complement to your Spanish dish.
Buen provecho! 🥘✨
We’d love to hear how your paella turned out – share your photos and tips in the comments below! 💬😊
