Time and Servings:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Nutrition (per serving):

  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 920mg

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio or Bomba rice
  • 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb chicken thighs, chopped
  • 1/4 lb chorizo, sliced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp saffron threads
  • 1/2 cup peas
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Meat: Heat olive oil in a large paella pan over medium heat. Brown the chicken and chorizo for about 5 minutes, ensuring they're golden. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Using the same pan, sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened and aromatic. Stir in rice and saffron threads, letting the rice absorb the flavors for about 2 minutes.
  3. Cook Paella: Add the chicken broth, shrimp, browned chicken, chorizo, and peas. Stir well to combine. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
  4. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty burst of flavor.

Tips for Success

  • Saffron: Toast saffron threads lightly in a dry pan before adding to intensify their flavor.
  • Pan Choice: Use a traditional paella pan for even cooking. If unavailable, a large, shallow skillet will work.
  • Avoid Stirring: Once the broth is added, avoid stirring the rice to achieve the characteristic crispy layer at the bottom, called socarrat.
  • Ingredient Swaps: For a seafood-only version, substitute chicken and chorizo with mussels or clams.

Wine, Cocktail, or Drink Pairing

  • Wine: A chilled Spanish Albariño or Verdejo complements the saffron and seafood beautifully.
  • Cocktail: A light Sangria pairs well with the dish's rich flavors.
  • Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a twist of lemon offers a refreshing balance.