One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice

A Flavorful Journey to Spain Without Leaving Your Kitchen!

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also easy to prepare, look no further than One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice! This recipe is a delightful melange of succulent chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and vibrant vegetables, all cooked in one pan for an effortless cleanup. Picture this: a family gathering, laughter filling the air, and the aroma of spiced chicken wafting through your kitchen. What’s not to love?

Spanish cuisine is known for its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, making this dish a perfect fit for any night of the week. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even kids will enjoy! While you might love whipping up a comforting pot of spaghetti, this One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice delivers an exciting twist your family will adore. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

What is One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice?

Now let’s break down the name, shall we? One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice – sounds exotic, doesn’t it? It practically invites you to a fiesta! But what’s with the one pan? Well, it’s simple: everything cooks together harmoniously, like a well-rehearsed dance troupe. It’s efficient, easy, and frankly, who doesn’t love less cleanup?

The “Spanish” in the title tugs at the heartstrings of food lovers, evoking images of sunny plazas and lively markets, while “chicken and rice” is a classic combo that many cultures embrace. Isn’t it funny how something so familiar can have a colorful twist? Remember, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—and this recipe will do just that! Give it a go and let your taste buds do the happy dance!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice

You’re probably wondering, “Why should I whip up this dish specifically?” Well, here are three reasons that will have you racing to the kitchen:

1. Ease and Simplicity: The highlight of One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is how straightforward it is to prepare. With minimal fuss, you can create a flavorful meal that tastes like it came straight from a Spanish kitchen. Just toss everything into one pan, and let the magic happen!
2. Cost-Effective: Cooking at home saves you money and allows you to control the ingredients. Chicken, rice, and spices are quite budget-friendly, making this dish a great choice for family dinners. Who wouldn’t want a restaurant-level meal without breaking the bank?
3. Flavorful Ingredients: The harmonious mix of paprika, garlic, and vibrant bell peppers gives this dish its signature Spanish flair. You can even customize it with your favorite toppings, such as fresh parsley or lemon zest. Compared to a basic chicken stir-fry, this dish brings a world of flavor and visual appeal to your table.

Why not take a quick detour from your typical meals and try something vibrant and exciting? Your taste buds will thank you!

How to Make One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice

Quick Overview

This dish is not only delicious but also wonderfully satisfying. In just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful dinner that doesn’t require a culinary degree to master. The simplicity of its execution and the delightful blend of flavors make it a must-try!

Key Ingredients for One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
• 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow, diced)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Flip and brown the other side for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until soft (around 4 minutes). Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Incorporate Rice and Spices: Stir in the rinsed rice, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the rice with the vegetable flavors.
4. Add Liquid: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Nestle Chicken: Place the browned chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and let cook for approximately 25 minutes, or until rice is fluffy and chicken is cooked through.
6. Finalize and Serve: Once cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

What to Serve One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice With

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice with some fresh crusty bread or a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. For drinks, a glass of Spanish red wine or a refreshing citrus-infused water would perfectly complement the meal. These sides will not only balance out flavors but also create a well-rounded dining experience for your family or guests!

Top Tips for Perfecting One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice

1. Customize Your Protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Add More Veggies: Amp up the nutrition by throwing in other vegetables, like peas or zucchini, during the cooking process.
3. Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken first locks in flavors, so don’t rush this step—it makes all the difference!
4. Use Quality Broth: If you can, opt for homemade or good-quality chicken broth; it elevates the flavor profile of the rice significantly.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in single-serving containers, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

By now, you should be excited to try One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice—your next family meal is just a click away! Happy cooking!

One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice

A vibrant and flavorful meal combining succulent chicken, seasoned rice, and colorful vegetables, all made in one pan for easy preparation and cleanup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Spanish

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor) Searing helps lock in flavors.
• 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed Rinsing removes excess starch.
• 1 piece bell pepper (red or yellow, diced) Adds color and flavor.
• 1 piece onion, chopped Provides a savory base.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
• 14 oz can diced tomatoes Use with juices for more flavor.
• 2.5 cups chicken broth Quality broth enhances flavor.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika Gives the dish a Spanish flair.
• to taste Salt and pepper Season to preference.
• for garnish Fresh parsley Adds freshness to the presentation.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Flip and brown the other side for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until soft (around 4 minutes). Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Stir in the rinsed rice, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the rice with the vegetable flavors.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Place the browned chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and let cook for approximately 25 minutes, or until rice is fluffy and chicken is cooked through.
6. Once cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Customize with shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Add more vegetables like peas or zucchini for extra nutrition. Use quality broth for the best flavor and remember to store in an airtight container, refrigerate for 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.