How to Make Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood

Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings the flavors of Spain right to your kitchen. This recipe blends tender chicken, fresh seafood, and fragrant saffron-infused rice, creating a colorful, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this classic Spanish paella recipe combines simple ingredients with bold flavors for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic flavor: Experience the rich, traditional taste of Spain with every bite.
• Balanced ingredients: The combination of chicken and seafood gives you a perfect mix of textures and flavors.
• One-pan wonder: Everything cooks together for easy cleanup and an impressive presentation.
• Great for gatherings: This dish serves up well and is always a crowd favorite at parties or family dinners.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in crafting the authentic flavor and beautiful color of Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood. From aromatic spices to quality proteins, every item adds something special.

• Chicken thighs: Use bone-in for extra juiciness and flavor.
• Seafood mix: A blend of shrimp, mussels, and clams brings a fresh ocean taste.
• Short-grain rice: Essential for absorbing all the delicious broth without getting mushy.
• Saffron threads: The key spice that gives the paella its signature golden hue and subtle aroma.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth characteristic of traditional Spanish cooking.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they add acidity and richness to the base.
• Peas: For a pop of color and sweetness.
• Chicken broth: Use homemade or low-sodium for better control over taste.
• Olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that’s perfect for sautéing and flavor.
• Garlic and onions: Build a savory foundation for the dish.
• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges: For bright, fresh finishing touches.

Variations for Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood

Feel free to play around with this recipe to showcase your favorite ingredients or accommodate dietary needs. Spanish paella is surprisingly forgiving and adaptable.

• Vegetarian twist: Swap chicken and seafood for mushrooms and artichokes for a veggie-packed meal.
• Spicy kick: Add chopped chorizo or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring more heat.
• Gluten-free version: Naturally gluten-free, just double-check your broth and seasonings.
• Alternative proteins: Use rabbit or duck instead of chicken for a more rustic touch.
• Extra seafood: Incorporate scallops or squid rings to make it a true seafood fiesta.

How to Make Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by chopping onions, mincing garlic, and dicing tomatoes. Rinse your seafood and pat it dry, and season the chicken thighs well with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large, flat pan over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown. Flip and cook briefly on the other side before setting them aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Base

In the same pan, add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Stir in tomatoes, smoked paprika, and saffron, letting the flavors meld together for a few minutes.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Pour in the short-grain rice, stirring to coat it thoroughly with the tomato and saffron mixture. This helps the grains toast lightly and absorb maximum flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth and Cook

Pour in the warm chicken broth, then nestle the browned chicken back into the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer, avoiding stirring, and cook until the rice is tender but not mushy.

Step 6: Add Seafood and Peas

Arrange your seafood over the rice to steam gently as the dish finishes cooking. Scatter peas on top and cover the pan briefly to allow the shellfish to open and the peas to soften.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Remove the pan from heat and cover with a clean towel to let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Finish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges to brighten the flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood

• Use a paella pan: The wide, shallow shape allows rice to cook evenly and develop the prized crust called socarrat.
• Saffron soaking: Soak saffron threads in warm broth before adding to distribute their flavor and color perfectly.
• No stirring: Resist stirring after adding broth to let the rice cook properly and form a crust at the bottom.
• Fresh seafood: Always use fresh or properly thawed seafood for the best texture and taste.
• Control heat: Keep the simmer gentle to avoid burning the bottom or undercooking the rice.

How to Serve Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and lemon wedges are classic garnishes that add vibrant color and a bright zing to each bite of paella. Squeezing lemon juice just before eating elevates all the savory flavors.

Side Dishes

Simple green salads, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent companions, allowing the paella to be the star of the meal without competing flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the paella directly in the pan for a rustic look, or portion it onto colorful ceramic plates. Add edible flowers or extra herbs on top for gatherings to impress your guests visually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftover paella to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Freezing

While paella can be frozen, the seafood may lose texture. Freeze in portions without seafood for best results, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out, covering the pan to warm evenly without toughening the chicken or seafood.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice?

Short-grain rice absorbs flavors and liquid evenly, but if unavailable, medium-grain rice can work, though texture might differ slightly.

Is Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood spicy?

Traditional paella is not typically spicy, but you can add chili or smoked paprika for heat based on your preference.

What if I don’t have saffron?

Saffron provides unique flavor and color, but turmeric can be a budget-friendly substitute for color, albeit with a different taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken and seafood with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian paella.

How long does paella take to cook?

From start to finish, expect about 45 minutes to cook, including prep and resting time for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood is a joyful dish that invites you to savor the hearty flavors of Spain with every bite. Its beautiful presentation and comforting mix of ingredients make it a perfect choice for both casual dinners and special gatherings. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find yourself coming back for more, sharing the warmth and delight of paella with those you love.

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