Chicken and Chorizo Paella : A Flavorful Spanish Meat Paella Recipe

Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that’s packed with vibrant flavors and has become a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. This Chicken and Chorizo Paella recipe is a hearty and satisfying take on the classic, featuring tender chicken, spicy chorizo, and a savory combination of spices. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a flavorful family meal, this paella is sure to impress everyone at the table. With juicy chicken, crispy chorizo, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is a meat lover’s dream.

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Why You’ll Love Chicken and Chorizo Paella

This Chicken and Chorizo Paella combines bold flavors with a one-pan cooking method, making it easy to prepare and clean up. The richness of the chicken and the spiciness of the chorizo come together beautifully with the seasoned rice, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Paella is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the recipe to suit your preferences, whether that’s adding vegetables like peas or keeping it purely focused on the meats.

Here’s why you’ll love this dish:

• Perfect balance of flavors: The savory chicken pairs perfectly with the spicy chorizo, creating a rich, well-rounded flavor.
• Easy to make: This paella recipe uses simple ingredients and is easy to follow, making it a great choice for a busy weeknight or a weekend dinner.
• One-pan meal: Everything is cooked in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Meat lover’s dream: With both chicken and chorizo, this paella is hearty and satisfying.

If you’re a fan of hearty, one-pan meals, try my Chorizo and Potato Skillet or Spanish Paella with Seafood and Chicken.

Who This Recipe Is For

This Chicken and Chorizo Paella recipe is ideal for:

• Meat lovers who enjoy rich, savory dishes with bold flavors.
• Home cooks looking for a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Paella enthusiasts who want to try a meat-based variation of the classic seafood paella.
• Family cooks who need a satisfying, filling meal that will please both adults and kids.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Chicken and Chorizo Paella, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients to bring out the best flavors. Here’s the full list:

• 1 lb bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 lb chorizo sausage (casings removed and sliced into rounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 1/2 cups short-grain paella rice (or Arborio rice as a substitute)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional, for authentic flavor)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (for color)
• 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh if preferred)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon wedges for garnish
• Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)

Paella rice is key to getting that authentic texture. If you can’t find it, Arborio rice works as a good substitute.

Ingredient Notes and Variations

• Chorizo: Spanish chorizo adds a unique spicy and smoky flavor to the paella. You can use either mild or spicy chorizo depending on your preference.
• Rice: While short-grain paella rice is traditional, you can use Arborio rice if you can’t find paella rice at the store. The texture won’t be exactly the same, but it will still absorb the flavors well.
• Peas: Peas are a classic addition to paella and provide a nice pop of color and sweetness to balance the rich meats. If you’re not a fan of peas, you can swap them out for another vegetable like bell peppers or artichokes.
• Saffron: Saffron is traditional in paella and provides a distinct flavor and color. If you can’t find saffron, you can use turmeric for a similar effect, though the flavor will differ.

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Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment:

• Large skillet or paella pan: The key to making paella is a large, shallow pan that allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients and ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.
• Knife and cutting board: To chop the vegetables, chicken, and chorizo.

Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Chicken and Chorizo Paella

Making Chicken and Chorizo Paella is simple and requires just a few steps to create a flavorful, hearty meal.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Chorizo

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same pan, add the chorizo and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it releases its oils and begins to crisp up. Remove the chorizo from the pan and set it aside with the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the paprika and turmeric (and saffron if using) for added flavor.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Broth

Add the rice to the pan and stir for 1–2 minutes to coat it in the oil and spices. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the rice cook for 15 minutes, uncovered. Avoid stirring the rice too much, as this can make it sticky.

Step 4: Add the Chicken, Chorizo, and Peas

Once the rice has absorbed most of the liquid, return the chicken and chorizo to the pan. Stir in the peas and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pan and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has evaporated.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Remove the paella from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken and Chorizo Paella

• Don’t stir the rice: One of the key components of paella is the layer of crispy rice at the bottom, known as “socarrat.” To get this texture, avoid stirring the rice after adding the liquid.
• Use a large, shallow pan: A wide, shallow pan allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
• Rest the paella: Allow the paella to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together and allows the rice to finish cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Stirring too much: Stirring the rice too often can make it mushy. Once the liquid is added, let the rice cook undisturbed for a good texture.
• Overcooking the rice: Make sure to keep an eye on the rice. If you let it cook too long, it can become dry and tough.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken and Chorizo Paella is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices. For a refreshing contrast, try serving it with a chilled Spanish gazpacho or cucumber and tomato salad.

If you’re looking for more delicious Spanish recipes, check out my Spanish Paella with Seafood and Chicken or Spanish Tortilla.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Want to customize your paella? Here are some ideas:

• Seafood Paella: Add shrimp, mussels, or clams for a seafood twist on this classic dish.
• Vegetarian Paella: Skip the meat and load up on vegetables like artichokes, bell peppers, and tomatoes for a lighter version.
• Spicy Paella: Add a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne to give your paella a little extra heat.

How to Store and Reheat

Store any leftover Chicken and Chorizo Paella in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet with a splash of broth or water and heat over low heat until warmed through.

Make-Ahead Tips

Paella is a great make-ahead dish. You can cook the chicken, chorizo, and rice a day in advance and then reheat it on the stovetop before serving. Just be sure to keep the paella covered to prevent it from drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy, which is why they are preferred in paella.

Can I freeze paella?
It’s not ideal to freeze paella because the rice can become mushy when reheated. However, if you have leftovers, you can freeze them for a quick meal in the future.

Final Thoughts: Why Chicken and Chorizo Paella Is a Keeper

This Chicken and Chorizo Paella is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With bold spices, tender chicken, and crispy chorizo, it’s the perfect dish for anyone who loves rich, satisfying meals. Plus, it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to fit your tastes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a little taste of Spain from the comfort of your own home.

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