One-Pot Chicken Paella

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the heartwarming flavors of Spanish paella. This One-Pot Chicken Paella is not only a delicious way to gather friends and family around the table, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With tender chicken drumsticks, fragrant spices, and vibrant vegetables all cooked in one pot, this dish captures the essence of a traditional paella without the fuss. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to impress!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

One-Pot Chicken Paella is a versatile dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. The combination of juicy chicken, seasoned rice, and colorful veggies creates a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Plus, the fact that it all comes together in a single pot means less cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Whether served at a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this paella is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredient Checklist

To create this flavorful One-Pot Chicken Paella, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ 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 low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• ¾ cup peas (frozen)
• ½ cup yellow onion (chopped)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional saffron)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• ⅓ cup carrots (minced)
• ⅓ cup red bell pepper (chopped)

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you get started on your One-Pot Chicken Paella, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven – This will be your main cooking vessel.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring and preventing scratches on your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
• Sharp knife – To chop your veggies and chicken easily.
• Cutting board – A safe surface for prep work.

Build One-Pot Chicken Paella Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by discarding the skin from the chicken drumsticks. Pat them dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it allows the chicken to brown nicely and develop great flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In your large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, and minced carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken drumsticks to the skillet, browning them on all sides for about 8-10 minutes. This step adds depth to the flavor of the dish, so don’t rush it!

Step 4: Add the Spices and Rice

Once the chicken is browned, stir in the curry powder (if using), paprika, and bay leaf. Then, add the brown rice and mix well to coat it with the spices and oil.

Step 5: Pour in the Broth

Carefully pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds even more flavor to your One-Pot Chicken Paella!

Step 6: Cook the Paella

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as you want to trap the steam for even cooking.

Step 7: Add the Vegetables

After 30 minutes, stir in the frozen peas and chopped red bell pepper. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld. Once ready to serve, remove the bay leaf and enjoy your delicious One-Pot Chicken Paella!

In-Season Flavor Ideas

To elevate your One-Pot Chicken Paella, consider incorporating seasonal ingredients:

• Fresh asparagus – Cut into bite-sized pieces for a spring twist.
• Green beans – Adds a nice crunch and vibrant color.
• Artichoke hearts – For a touch of Mediterranean flair.
• Cherry tomatoes – Cut in halves for a burst of sweetness.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you run into any issues while making your One-Pot Chicken Paella, here are some tips to help you out:

• Rice Too Hard? – If the rice isn’t tender after the cooking time, add a little more broth or water and continue to simmer until soft.
• Chicken Not Cooked Through? – Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If not, cover and cook longer.
• Too Much Liquid? – If there’s excess liquid, remove the lid and let it cook for a few minutes to evaporate.
• Flavor Lacking? – Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices to taste.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your One-Pot Chicken Paella fresh, follow these storage tips:

Allow the paella to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist.

Ask & Learn

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! Thighs or breasts work well too. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite vegetables and vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Is there a gluten-free option for the rice?

Yes! You can use gluten-free rice varieties such as arborio or jasmine rice instead of brown rice.

What can I serve with paella?

Paella is wonderful on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you loved this One-Pot Chicken Paella, try these other one-pan meals:

• One-Pot Pasta Primavera
• One-Pan Skillet Chicken and Veggies
• One-Pot Quinoa and Black Beans
• One-Pan Baked Ratatouille

Bring It to the Table

The beauty of this One-Pot Chicken Paella lies not just in its incredible flavors but also in the communal experience it fosters. As you gather around the table, the vibrant colors of the paella serve as a centerpiece, inviting conversation and laughter. With each bite, you’ll experience the warmth of home-cooked goodness that brings people together. So go ahead, dig in, and enjoy every delicious mouthful of this fantastic dish!

This One-Pot Chicken Paella is a celebration of flavors and simplicity, making it a must-try for anyone looking to impress at their next dinner gathering. With just a few ingredients and one pot, you can create a culinary masterpiece that rivals those found in the heart of Spain. Happy cooking!