One Pot Chicken Paella

Growing up, family dinners were a time of connection, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. One dish that always brought us together was One Pot Chicken Paella. The aroma of spices and tender chicken simmering with rice filled our home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. I can still remember my mother’s laughter as she stirred the pot, her love infused in every bite. This dish not only satisfied our hunger but also ignited our passion for cooking. Whether it was a cozy weeknight or a special gathering, One Pot Chicken Paella was our go-to meal. It’s amazing how food can weave so many memories, don’t you think?

What to Buy for One Pot Chicken Paella

The ingredients for One Pot Chicken Paella are carefully selected to create a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component brings something special to the dish, ensuring a delightful experience from the first bite to the last. Let’s take a closer look at these key players:

• Chicken Drumsticks: 1 1/2 pounds of chicken drumsticks provide rich flavor and tender meat that complements the rice beautifully.
• Brown Rice: 1 cup of brown rice adds a nutty flavor and a healthy touch, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth infuse moisture and depth of flavor, ensuring the rice cooks perfectly.
• Olive Oil: 2 1/2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables and chicken, enhancing the overall taste.
• Frozen Peas: 3/4 cup of frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness to the dish.
• Yellow Onion: 1/2 cup of chopped yellow onions provide a savory base for the dish, enhancing its flavor profile.
• Garlic: 1 garlic clove, minced, lends a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor.
• Curry Powder: 1 teaspoon of curry powder (optional) adds warmth and complexity, while saffron can be a luxurious addition.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon of paprika contributes rich color and a hint of smokiness.
• Bay Leaf: 1 bay leaf infuses the dish with aromatic flavors as it simmers.
• Carrots: 1/3 cup of minced carrots add a subtle sweetness and crunch.
• Red Bell Pepper: 1/3 cup of chopped red bell pepper brings vibrant color and additional flavor.

How to Cook One Pot Chicken Paella

Cooking One Pot Chicken Paella is a delightful journey filled with rich aromas and vibrant flavors. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with a comforting, hearty meal that’s sure to impress.

1. Begin by heating 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil in the bottom of a pot over medium heat. Wait until the oil shimmers before proceeding; this is a good sign that it’s ready. While the oil heats, rinse the chicken, pat it dry, and season all sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pot. Ensure you don’t overcrowd the pot; this is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden color. Cook the chicken for about 6 minutes, flipping it periodically to brown all sides evenly. You want it to be lightly golden, but it doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage. After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot, followed by the chopped yellow onions, minced carrots, and chopped red bell pepper. Cook these vegetables for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the onions to soften and become slightly translucent; this will create a wonderful base for your dish.
4. Next, stir in the curry powder (if using), paprika, and 2 tablespoons of the chicken broth. This paste will intensify the flavors. Allow it to cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously to combine. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds. You’ll want to inhale the fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen!
5. Now, it’s time to add the remaining chicken broth, bay leaf, peas, and brown rice to the pot. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is well coated with the flavorful mixture. Nestle the browned chicken back into the pot on top of the rice. This will allow the chicken to finish cooking while infusing its flavor into the paella.
6. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Keeping it covered is essential for the rice to steam properly. Allow it to simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Don’t be tempted to lift the lid; this is where the magic happens!
7. After the cooking time, carefully uncover the pot. Using a fork, fluff the rice gently to separate the grains. Take a moment to remove the bay leaf before serving. Your One Pot Chicken Paella should look inviting, with the chicken beautifully cooked and the rice perfectly tender.
8. Serve your paella hot, and enjoy every bite with family and friends. You’ve just created a dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of exciting variations for One Pot Chicken Paella. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

• Seafood Twist: Enhance your paella by adding shrimp or mussels for a delicious seafood version.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to create a vibrant vegetarian dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add a touch of heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can elevate the dish with a burst of freshness.
• Different Grains: Try using quinoa or farro instead of brown rice for a unique twist.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked paella in portions for a quick meal on busy days. Just defrost and heat through before serving.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh side salad or crusty bread to complement the dish.

Perfect Pairings for One Pot Chicken Paella

When it comes to serving your One Pot Chicken Paella, there are numerous ways to enhance the experience. Here are some delightful pairings and serving suggestions:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the paella. Try a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
• Crusty Bread: Serve slices of warm, crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth from the paella.
• Special Occasions: This dish is ideal for gatherings, birthdays, or family reunions. The vibrant presentation makes it a showstopper.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with a refreshing gazpacho or a light fruit salad. In winter, consider hearty roasted vegetables.
• Picnic Treat: Take your paella to a picnic! It’s easy to pack, and tastes great at room temperature.
• Wine Pairing: Pair it with a chilled white wine or a refreshing mocktail for a complete dining experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

The One Pot Chicken Paella is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. It brings warmth to the table and creates connections among family and friends. I encourage you to try this dish and experience the joy it brings. You’ll find that each bite is a reminder of the comfort that comes from home-cooked meals. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

One Pot Chicken Paella

The ultimate comfort food, One Pot Chicken Paella is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and hearty rice in one pot. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual gatherings, this easy weeknight meal will satisfy your cravings and bring a taste of tradition to your table. Make it tonight for a delightful culinary experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Spanish

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 pounds Chicken Drumsticks skin discarded (6 pieces)
• 1 cup Brown Rice long or short grain (Uncle Ben's was used in this recipe)
• 2 cups Chicken Broth low-sodium
• 2 1/2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil divided
• 3/4 cup Peas frozen
• 1/2 cup Yellow Onion chopped
• 1 clove Garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Curry Powder optional saffron
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1/3 cup Carrots minced
• 1/3 cup Red Bell Pepper chopped

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Large Pot
• Saucepan

Method

 

1. Begin by heating 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil in the bottom of a pot over medium heat. Wait until the oil shimmers before proceeding; this is a good sign that it’s ready. While the oil heats, rinse the chicken, pat it dry, and season all sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pot. Ensure you don’t overcrowd the pot; this is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden color. Cook the chicken for about 6 minutes, flipping it periodically to brown all sides evenly. You want it to be lightly golden, but it doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage. After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot, followed by the chopped yellow onions, minced carrots, and chopped red bell pepper. Cook these vegetables for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the onions to soften and become slightly translucent; this will create a wonderful base for your dish.
4. Next, stir in the curry powder (if using), paprika, and 2 tablespoons of the chicken broth. This paste will intensify the flavors. Allow it to cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously to combine. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds. You’ll want to inhale the fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen!
5. Now, it’s time to add the remaining chicken broth, bay leaf, peas, and brown rice to the pot. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is well coated with the flavorful mixture. Nestle the browned chicken back into the pot on top of the rice. This will allow the chicken to finish cooking while infusing its flavor into the paella.
6. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Keeping it covered is essential for the rice to steam properly. Allow it to simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Don’t be tempted to lift the lid; this is where the magic happens!
7. After the cooking time, carefully uncover the pot. Using a fork, fluff the rice gently to separate the grains. Take a moment to remove the bay leaf before serving. Your One Pot Chicken Paella should look inviting, with the chicken beautifully cooked and the rice perfectly tender.
8. Serve your paella hot, and enjoy every bite with family and friends. You’ve just created a dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart.

Notes

If you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of exciting variations for One Pot Chicken Paella. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked paella in portions for a quick meal on busy days. Just defrost and heat through before serving.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh side salad or crusty bread to complement the dish.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.