Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish—one pan Spanish chicken and rice! This meal is everything you need: it’s simple, it’s bursting with flavor, and it comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Seriously, who doesn’t love a good one-pan meal? I remember the first time I made this for my family; the delightful aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, perfectly cooked rice, and those vibrant Spanish spices is just heavenly. Plus, it’s a great way to get a hearty dinner on the table without spending hours slaving away. You can customize it too, which makes it even more fun! Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation. So, grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients for One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice
You’ll want to gather the following ingredients to create this delicious one pan Spanish chicken and rice. I recommend prepping everything beforehand so you can just toss it all together as you cook. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in for more flavor)
- 1 cup long-grain rice (make sure it’s rinsed for fluffiness)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you like adds a fun pop!)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz, no need to drain)
- 2 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought works)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet, your choice!)
- 1 tsp cumin (adds a lovely warmth)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with seasoning!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for that perfect sear)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (because we eat with our eyes first!)
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to your new favorite dish. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice
Alright, let’s dive into making this delicious one pan Spanish chicken and rice! Trust me, it’s easier than you might think, and the results are oh-so-satisfying. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want that oil nice and hot for the perfect sear on your chicken!
- While that oil is heating up, season your 4 chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Don’t hold back—the spices are what’ll make this dish sing!
- Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pan, skin side down. Brown them for about 5 minutes on each side until they’re golden and crispy. This step is crucial for locking in flavor, so resist the urge to move them around too much.
- After browning, carefully remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. Look at that beautiful color! Now, let’s get those veggies going.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the same pan. Sauté these beauties until they’re softened and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll love how the kitchen smells right now!
- Next, stir in the rinsed long-grain rice and let it toast in the pan for about 2 minutes. This step adds a wonderful nutty flavor, so don’t skip it!
- Now it’s time to add the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!) and 2 cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. It’s all about layering those flavors!
- Return the browned chicken thighs back to the pan, nestling them into the rice mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
- Once the time’s up, remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period is key for fluffy rice!
- Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Wow, doesn’t that look incredible? You did it!
And there you have it! A hearty, mouthwatering one pan Spanish chicken and rice that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this one pan Spanish chicken and rice! This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a solid balance of nutrients. Each serving (about one-fourth of the recipe) comes in at approximately 450 calories. You’ll get around 30 grams of protein from the chicken, making it a fantastic option for a filling meal. Plus, it contains about 15 grams of fat, with only 3 grams being saturated fat—pretty great, right? With 50 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fiber, it’s a well-rounded dish that keeps you energized. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So, dig in without guilt and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that’s also good for you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one pan Spanish chicken and rice dish is a total game changer, and here’s why you’ll love it:
- Simplicity: With just one pan, prep and cleanup are a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-packed: The combination of spices creates a deliciously aromatic and savory experience in every bite.
- Hearty and filling: With juicy chicken and wholesome rice, it’s a satisfying meal that keeps you full.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the spices or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own!
- Healthy choice: Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a wholesome option for the whole family.
Trust me, once you make this dish, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make sure your one pan Spanish chicken and rice turns out perfectly every single time, here are my favorite tips:
- Choose the right chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs are my go-to for maximum flavor, but you can use skinless if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
- Don’t rush the browning: Taking your time to brown the chicken creates a delicious, crispy skin that adds depth to the dish. It’s worth the extra few minutes!
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to play with the spices! If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne or some sliced jalapeños for a kick.
- Let it rest: Don’t skip the resting step after cooking; it allows the rice to soak up all the flavors and become fluffy.
- Add vegetables: Toss in some peas, corn, or even spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrients!
These little tips will elevate your dish and make it even more delightful. Happy cooking!
Variations of One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice
One of the best things about this one pan Spanish chicken and rice is how adaptable it is! Here are a few fun variations to keep things exciting:
- Vegetable Medley: Add your favorite vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or green beans. Just toss them in with the onions and peppers for a colorful, nutrient-packed dish!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a heat lover, throw in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for an extra layer of warmth.
- Herb Infusion: Swap out parsley for fresh cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile. They bring a fresh twist that’s absolutely delightful!
- Seafood Twist: Try using shrimp instead of chicken! Just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Different Grains: Switch up the rice for quinoa or farro for a whole grain option that adds a nutty flavor.
These variations not only keep the dish fresh but also let you cater to your taste buds and dietary preferences. So go ahead, get creative!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your one pan Spanish chicken and rice, simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those delicious flavors again! Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
When you’re ready to reheat, you can either pop it in the microwave or warm it up on the stovetop. If using the microwave, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to prevent splatters, and heat in short intervals until warmed through. If you prefer the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help steam it up, keeping the rice nice and moist. Remember, don’t let it sit too long on the heat to avoid drying out! Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious one pan Spanish chicken and rice ready, let’s talk about how to make it even more special with some fantastic serving suggestions!
First off, I love pairing this dish with a simple green salad. A fresh mix of lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that complements the savory rice perfectly. You might also consider serving some warm crusty bread or soft tortillas on the side, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices!
For a little extra flair, sprinkle some additional fresh parsley or even a squeeze of lemon juice over the top just before serving. It brightens everything up! And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not offer a side of roasted vegetables or some sautéed greens? They’ll add color and nutrients while enhancing the overall meal. Enjoy your feast!
Print
One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice: A Comforting Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful one pan dish featuring chicken and rice with Spanish spices.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
- Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 5 minutes each.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pan. Sauté until soft.
- Add rice and stir for 2 minutes.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Return chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken for more flavor.
- Adjust spices to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: one pan spanish chicken and rice