Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Spain! This mouthwatering Chicken and Spanish Rice recipe is not just a meal—it's an experience that combines succulent chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and a symphony of bold flavors that will make your dinner table the talk of the town. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a food enthusiast craving an authentic Spanish dish, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by washing and patting chicken thighs dry. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and cumin on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and brown chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until vegetables become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add rice to the skillet and stir to coat with vegetable mixture, toasting the rice for 1-2 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Nestle browned chicken thighs into the rice mixture, ensuring they are partially submerged.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness. The dark meat stays more tender and absorbs seasonings better than chicken breasts.
- Toast the Rice: Don't skip the rice toasting step! This crucial technique enhances the nutty flavor and helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
- Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your cumin is fresh and fragrant. If it's been sitting in your pantry for over six months, consider replacing it for the most vibrant taste.
- Control Your Heat: Maintain a gentle simmer when cooking the rice. Too high heat can burn the bottom while leaving the top undercooked.
- Let It Rest: The 5-minute resting period is key. It allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and helps the chicken retain its juices.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a pinch of saffron or smoked paprika for an extra authentic Spanish touch.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for batch cooking and leftovers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 376kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 60mg
