Why Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood Is a Must-Try

Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood is a vibrant celebration of flavors, colors, and tradition all cooked into one unforgettable dish. This recipe perfectly balances tender chicken, fresh seafood, and aromatic saffron-infused rice, embodying the soul of Spanish cuisine in every bite. Whether you’re a cooking enthusiast or simply looking for a crowd-pleaser, Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny coasts of Spain.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Flavor Symphony: The combination of chicken and seafood creates a harmonious blend of savory tastes that complement each other beautifully.
• Vibrant Presentation: The colorful ingredients—from red peppers to golden saffron rice—make it as pleasing to the eyes as to the palate.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup easier and flavors more integrated.
• Tradition Meets Simplicity: This dish honors Spanish heritage but uses straightforward cooking techniques anyone can master.
• Perfect for Sharing: Paella is inherently social, ideal for family meals or festive gatherings where everyone gathers around to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood lies in its simple, quality ingredients that each play an essential role. From the rich saffron that colors the rice to the fresh chicken and briny seafood adding depth, every component contributes to that authentic taste and texture.

• Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, these provide the hearty, tender base for the dish.
• Seafood mix: A combination of shrimp, mussels, and clams offers variety and ocean-fresh taste.
• Short-grain rice: Bomba or arborio rice is perfect for absorbing flavors without turning mushy.
• Saffron threads: This pricey but vital spice delivers the signature golden color and subtle earthy aroma.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky undertone that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Bell peppers: Bright red and green peppers give crunch and sweetness.
• Garlic and onions: The classic aromatic base that builds layers of taste.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they add acidity and richness to the broth.
• Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and bringing out the best in every ingredient.
• Chicken stock: Provides a savory cooking liquid that infuses the rice.

Variations for Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, encouraging creativity whether you want more seafood, a vegetarian switch, or a spicy kick. It’s easy to change up ingredients based on your pantry or dietary needs while still keeping that iconic paella charm.

• Vegetarian version: Swap meat and seafood for artichokes, peas, and roasted vegetables for a veggie-friendly twist.
• Spicy kick: Add sliced chorizo or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring heat and extra depth.
• More seafood: Double up on shrimp and add calamari rings for an extra ocean vibe.
• Different proteins: Use rabbit or duck in place of chicken to explore traditional regional variations.
• Gluten-free option: Naturally gluten-free, just ensure your stock and spices don’t contain additives.

How to Make Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by cleaning and cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, peeling and deveining the shrimp, and chopping peppers, onions, and garlic finely. Measuring your rice and preparing the chicken stock infused with saffron will set you up for smooth cooking.

Step 2: Brown the chicken

Heat olive oil in a wide paella pan or large skillet, then add the chicken pieces. Brown them over medium-high heat to lock in flavors and create a rich base, then remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables and build the sofrito

In the same pan, gently cook onions, garlic, and peppers until soft, then add tomatoes and smoked paprika. This sofrito is the flavor foundation that will make your paella unforgettable.

Step 4: Add rice and liquids

Stir the rice into the sofrito until it’s well coated, then gently pour in the saffron-infused chicken stock. Spread the rice evenly and resist stirring once the liquid is added to encourage the signature crispy bottom layer called socarrat.

Step 5: Incorporate protein and seafood

Return the browned chicken to the pan and nestle shrimp, mussels, and clams into the rice. Cover and simmer on low heat until the rice is cooked, seafood opens, and all flavors meld perfectly together.

Step 6: Rest before serving

Remove from heat and let the paella rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps the flavors settle and the textures shine.

Pro Tips for Making Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood

• Use a proper paella pan: Its wide, shallow surface helps rice cook evenly and develop the socarrat crust.
• Don’t stir after adding liquid: Letting the rice cook undisturbed creates that prized crispy bottom layer.
• Soak saffron briefly: Enhances color and flavor by releasing its oils into the stock before cooking.
• Fresh seafood is key: The fresher your shrimp and shellfish, the more vibrant your paella will taste.
• Control the heat: Moderate heat ensures even cooking without burning the rice or drying out the proteins.

How to Serve Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood

Garnishes

Top your paella with freshly chopped parsley, lemon wedges for squeezing, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for garnish—these bright accents enhance freshness and presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or grilled vegetables to balance the richness of the paella and keep the focus on its vibrant flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve paella straight from the pan at the table for a communal feel, or plate portions with a drizzle of garlic aioli for an indulgent touch. You can even pair it with chilled Spanish white wine or sangria for a full cultural experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover paella to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently to preserve the texture of the rice and seafood.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, especially without shellfish, which can get rubbery. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat paella in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist, or use a microwave covered loosely to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seafood in Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add favorites like squid, scallops, or even lobster depending on your taste and availability.

Is Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood spicy?

Traditional paella is mildly seasoned, but you can easily add chili or smoked paprika for extra heat if you prefer.

What’s the best rice for this recipe?

Bomba rice is ideal because it absorbs liquid well without turning mushy, but arborio rice can also be used in a pinch.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood is naturally gluten-free as long as your stock and spices don’t contain hidden gluten additives.

How long does it take to cook paella?

From start to finish, it usually takes around 45 to 60 minutes, including prepping and resting time.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dish that combines tradition, bold flavors, and a touch of culinary magic, Spanish Paella with Chicken & Seafood is your answer. Easy to customize and impressively delicious, it promises a joyful cooking experience and a meal to remember. Grab your pan, gather fresh ingredients, and dive into this Spanish classic—you won’t regret it!

Related Posts

• How to Perfect Cranberry Duck Breasts Tonight
• Easy Taco Zucchini Skillet for Quick Meals
• How to Make Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons & Olives

Print