Chicken and chorizo paella

Chicken and Chorizo Paella is a vibrant Spanish dish featuring tender chicken and spicy chorizo cooked with aromatic spices and rice. It's a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

21 Dec 2025
Cook time 70 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp vegetable oil
4 chicken breasts
1 onion
1 red pepper
3 garlic cloves
7 oz chorizo
1/2 cup tomato puree
1 tbsp dried thyme
5 oz white wine
3 cups chicken soup
2 cups white rice
2 tbsp dried parsley

Paella is a vibrant and flavorful Spanish dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. This Chicken and Chorizo Paella brings together tender chicken breasts, spicy chorizo, and aromatic spices, creating a deliciously comforting meal. With its beautiful color and rich flavors, it's perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop the onion.
- Chop the red pepper.
- Mince the garlic.
- Slice the chorizo.

2. Cook Chicken:
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large paella pan or large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Cook Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion and red pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced chorizo, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the chorizo starts to release its oil and is slightly crispy.

4. Add Flavors:
- Stir in the 1/2 cup of tomato puree and 1 tbsp of dried thyme. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Deglaze Pan:
- Pour in the 5 oz of white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the wine has reduced slightly.

6. Add Liquid and Rice:
- Add the 3 cups of chicken soup (broth) and bring it to a boil.
- Stir in the 2 cups of white rice, making sure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the pan.

7. Cook Paella:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the paella simmer gently. Cook without stirring for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- If the rice is still undercooked and the liquid is absorbed, you can add a little more broth or water as needed.

8. Finish Dish:
- When the rice is cooked, return the chicken pieces to the pan, nestling them into the rice. Cook for another 5 minutes to ensure the chicken is warmed through.
- Sprinkle the 2 tbsp of dried parsley over the paella before serving.

9. Serve:
- Serve the Chicken and Chorizo Paella hot, straight from the pan for an authentic touch.

Your Chicken and Chorizo Paella is now ready to be served! The combination of tender chicken, spicy chorizo, and flavorful rice will surely make this dish a favorite at your table. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal with your loved ones, and don't forget to garnish it with fresh parsley for an added touch.

Chicken and chorizo paella FAQ:

What type of rice is best for paella?

The best rice for paella is typically short-grain rice, such as Bomba or Calasparra. These varieties absorb liquid well and yield a tender yet slightly firm texture, perfect for paella.

How long do I need to cook the paella?

Cook the paella on low heat for about 20-25 minutes after adding the rice, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Avoid stirring during this time for the best results.

Can I store leftover paella?

Yes, leftover paella can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary.

What can I substitute for chorizo if I can't find it?

If you cannot find chorizo, you can substitute it with any spicy sausage, such as Andouille or a spicy Italian sausage. Alternatively, use chicken or turkey sausage for a milder flavor.

How do I check if the paella is done cooking?

The paella is done when the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. If the rice is undercooked, you can add a little broth or water and cook for a few more minutes.

Tips:

- Use a large, shallow pan to prepare the paella. This helps in cooking the rice evenly and attaining the desirable caramelized crust at the bottom.

- Let the paella rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the rice absorbs all the delicious juices.

- Feel free to add other ingredients like peas, seafood, or different vegetables to customize your paella to your liking.

- Use high-quality chorizo for the best flavor. The smokiness and spice of the chorizo are key components of this dish.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 520kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 2.44g
Sugar 6g
Fat 16g

Chicken and chorizo paella