One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice recipe

It’s funny how some of the best recipes are the ones that simplify life without sacrificing flavor, isn’t it? One-Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is exactly that kind of culinary magic in our house. Weeknights used to be a scramble of trying to get a decent meal on the table amidst homework, after-school activities, and general chaos. Then I stumbled upon this recipe, and it was like a breath of fresh air. Suddenly, dinner became less stressful and infinitely more delicious. The aroma that fills the kitchen as the saffron-infused rice cooks with the savory chicken and vegetables is simply intoxicating. Even my picky eaters devour it, which is a testament to its universally appealing flavors. What I love most, besides the incredible taste, is the minimal cleanup. One pan—that’s it! It’s become a regular feature in our meal rotation, a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Spain right to our dinner table, all while keeping things wonderfully simple and stress-free. If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner hero that’s both impressive and effortless, this recipe is an absolute must-try.

Ingredients: The Heart of Flavorful One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice

The beauty of One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice lies not only in its simplicity of cooking but also in the vibrant combination of ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor. Let’s explore each component in detail, discussing their role and potential variations:

• Chicken: The star protein of our dish! Chicken provides a hearty and satisfying base, absorbing all the wonderful flavors from the spices and vegetables.
  • Chicken Thighs: For this recipe, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are highly recommended. Chicken thighs are naturally more flavorful and moist than chicken breasts, and the bone-in and skin-on aspect further enhances the flavor and keeps the chicken juicy during cooking. As the chicken cooks, the skin crisps up beautifully, adding a delightful textural contrast to the tender meat and rice. You can use boneless, skinless thighs if preferred, but bone-in, skin-on thighs will yield a richer and more authentic flavor.
  • Chicken Breasts: While chicken thighs are traditionally preferred, you can also use chicken breasts for a leaner option. If using chicken breasts, be mindful that they can dry out more easily than thighs. To prevent this, consider searing them quickly before adding them to the pan and ensure they are not overcooked. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are convenient and work well, but for added flavor, you could opt for bone-in, skin-on breasts and remove the skin after cooking if desired.
  • Whole Chicken, Cut into Pieces: For a more rustic and family-style approach, you can use a whole chicken cut into pieces. This allows for a variety of textures and flavors from different parts of the chicken. Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Using a whole chicken can also be more economical.
  • Chicken Marinade (Optional): To elevate the flavor even further, consider marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, and salt and pepper works wonderfully. Marinating tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with extra flavor, making the dish even more delicious.
• Rice: The perfect grain to soak up all the savory juices and spices! Rice forms the comforting and substantial base of this one-pan meal.
  • Long-Grain Rice: Long-grain rice, such as Basmati or Jasmine rice, is the ideal choice for Spanish Chicken and Rice. These types of rice have a lower starch content and cook up fluffy and separate, rather than becoming sticky or mushy. Basmati rice has a slightly nutty aroma, while Jasmine rice is known for its floral fragrance, both complementing the Spanish flavors beautifully.
  • Medium-Grain Rice (e.g., Valencia Rice): For a more authentic Spanish flavor, consider using medium-grain rice, such as Valencia rice or Bomba rice. Valencia rice is commonly used in paella and has a slightly higher starch content, resulting in a creamier texture. Bomba rice is another Spanish short-grain rice known for its ability to absorb a lot of liquid without becoming mushy, making it excellent for flavorful dishes like this. If using medium-grain rice, you might need to adjust the liquid ratio slightly as they tend to absorb more liquid than long-grain rice.
  • Brown Rice (for a healthier option): For a healthier twist, you can use brown rice. However, brown rice takes significantly longer to cook than white rice, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio. Brown rice also has a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, which will alter the overall character of the dish. If using brown rice, pre-soaking it for 30 minutes can help reduce cooking time.
• Vegetables: Adding color, nutrients, and layers of flavor! Vegetables are essential for making this dish a complete and balanced meal.
  • Onion: Aromatic and foundational, onion forms the flavor base of many savory dishes, including this one. Yellow or white onions work best, providing a mild and sweet flavor that becomes even sweeter as it caramelizes while sautéing.
  • Bell Peppers: Bringing sweetness, color, and a slight crunch! Bell peppers add vibrant color and a mild sweetness to the dish. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers are excellent choices, or a combination for visual appeal. Green bell peppers can also be used for a slightly more bitter and less sweet flavor.
  • Tomatoes: Adding acidity, moisture, and a rich, savory depth! Diced tomatoes, whether fresh or canned, are crucial for adding moisture and a tangy, slightly acidic element to the dish. Canned diced tomatoes are convenient and readily available, and fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add a smoky depth of flavor. If using fresh tomatoes, choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes and dice them into roughly the same size as canned diced tomatoes.
  • Garlic: Pungent and aromatic, garlic is a flavor powerhouse! Fresh garlic cloves, minced or pressed, are essential for adding a pungent and savory aroma and flavor that complements the other Spanish spices and ingredients.
  • Peas (Frozen): Adding a pop of sweetness and vibrant green color at the end! Frozen peas are a convenient and quick way to add a touch of sweetness and freshness to the dish. They are added towards the end of cooking so they retain their bright green color and slightly sweet flavor.
• Spices and Seasonings: The soul of Spanish flavor! Spices and seasonings are what truly transform this dish into Spanish Chicken and Rice.
  • Saffron: The quintessential Spanish spice, adding color, aroma, and a unique flavor! Saffron threads are what give Spanish rice dishes their characteristic golden-yellow hue and a subtle, earthy, and slightly floral flavor. Saffron is relatively expensive, so a little goes a long way. A pinch of saffron threads is usually sufficient for this recipe. If saffron is unavailable, you can use turmeric as a substitute for color, but it will not replicate the unique flavor of saffron.
  • Smoked Paprika: Adding depth, smokiness, and a touch of sweetness! Smoked paprika, also known as pimentón de la Vera, is a key Spanish spice that imparts a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. It comes in different varieties (sweet, bittersweet, and hot), so choose sweet or bittersweet smoked paprika for this recipe. Smoked paprika is essential for achieving that authentic Spanish flavor profile.
  • Dried Oregano: Earthy and aromatic, oregano provides a classic Mediterranean flavor! Dried oregano adds a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic note that complements the other Spanish spices and ingredients.
  • Bay Leaf: Subtle and aromatic, bay leaf adds a layer of depth and complexity! A bay leaf infuses the dish with a subtle, herbal, and slightly minty aroma as it simmers. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.
  • Chicken Broth: The cooking liquid and flavor enhancer! Chicken broth provides the liquid needed to cook the rice and adds a savory depth of flavor. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the salt level. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, although chicken broth will enhance the chicken flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing and adding richness! Olive oil is a staple in Spanish cooking and is used for sautéing the vegetables and chicken, adding richness and flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its superior flavor and health benefits.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings to enhance all the flavors! Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning the chicken, vegetables, and rice, bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients and balancing the overall taste.
  • Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, lemon wedges, olives, or a sprinkle of Manchego cheese can add freshness, brightness, and visual appeal when serving.

Instructions: Cooking One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice to Perfection

Creating One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is surprisingly straightforward, and the magic happens as all the flavors meld together in a single pan. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking this delicious dish:

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs (or breasts) dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This initial seasoning is crucial for building flavor right from the start. If you are using a marinade, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours in the refrigerator before this step.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down (if using skin-on thighs), and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Searing the chicken adds color and flavor and helps to render some of the chicken fat. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Build Flavor Base: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes (canned or fresh), saffron threads, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down slightly and the spices to bloom and release their aromas. The kitchen should be filling with a wonderful Spanish fragrance at this point.
5. Add Rice and Broth: Add the long-grain rice (or medium-grain rice) to the skillet and stir to coat it with the tomato-vegetable mixture. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and bring to a boil. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed in the skillet.
6. Return Chicken and Simmer: Gently place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up (if using skin-on thighs). Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and simmer for 20-25 minutes for long-grain rice (or follow package instructions for medium-grain or brown rice), or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure the rice steams properly.
7. Check for Doneness and Rest: After 20-25 minutes, check if the rice is cooked through by gently pressing a grain – it should be tender and not crunchy. If the rice is still slightly firm or there is still liquid in the pan, continue to simmer for a few more minutes, checking periodically. Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining moisture and become even more fluffy.
8. Stir in Peas and Serve: Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of resting time, or after resting, to heat them through and retain their bright green color. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and olives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice!

Nutrition Facts: A Balanced and Wholesome Meal

One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is not only delicious and easy but also offers a balanced and nutritious meal. Let’s break down the estimated nutritional information per serving. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods.

Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups (estimated as a generous portion)

Approximate Nutritional Values per Serving:

• Calories: 450-550 calories (depending on chicken portion size and amount of olive oil)
• Protein: 30-40 grams
• Fat: 15-25 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 4-7 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10-18 grams (primarily healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from olive oil and chicken)
• Carbohydrates: 45-60 grams
  • Fiber: 4-6 grams
  • Sugar: 8-12 grams (primarily natural sugars from vegetables and tomatoes)
• Sodium: 500-700 mg (can vary depending on broth and seasoning used)
• Potassium: 600-800 mg (from vegetables and tomatoes)
• Vitamin C: 30-40% of Daily Value (from bell peppers and tomatoes)
• Vitamin A: 20-30% of Daily Value (from bell peppers and tomatoes)
• Iron: 10-15% of Daily Value
• Calcium: 6-8% of Daily Value

Key Nutritional Benefits:

• Excellent Source of Protein: Chicken thighs provide a significant amount of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building and repair, satiety, and overall body function.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Chicken also provides some healthy fats.
• Good Source of Complex Carbohydrates: Rice provides complex carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary source of energy. Whole grains, like brown rice (if used), offer even more fiber and nutrients.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and iron, contributing to overall health and well-being.
• Fiber-Rich: Vegetables and whole grains (especially brown rice) contribute to the fiber content, which is important for digestive health, blood sugar control, and satiety.
• Balanced Macronutrient Profile: One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice offers a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Important Considerations:

• Sodium Content: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using regular chicken broth and added salt. Opt for low-sodium broth and adjust salt seasoning to your preference.
• Fat Content: While the fats are primarily healthy, the calorie count can be higher due to the fat content of chicken thighs and olive oil. You can reduce fat by using chicken breasts or trimming excess fat from thighs, and using olive oil in moderation.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie intake, especially if you are watching your weight.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables to increase the nutritional value and fiber content further, such as zucchini, eggplant, or artichoke hearts.

Overall, One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is a nutritious and flavorful meal that can be a part of a healthy diet. It provides a good balance of macronutrients and micronutrients, making it a satisfying and wholesome option for dinner.

Preparation Time: Effortless Weeknight Dinner

One of the biggest appeals of One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is its ease of preparation and minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Total Preparation Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes

Breakdown of Time:

• Prep Time (Chopping Vegetables, Seasoning Chicken): 15-20 minutes
  • Chopping onions, bell peppers, garlic, and tomatoes.
  • Seasoning the chicken thighs with spices.
• Cooking Time (Searing Chicken, Sautéing Vegetables, Simmering Rice): 30-35 minutes
  • Searing chicken: 8-10 minutes
  • Sautéing vegetables: 7-10 minutes
  • Simmering rice and chicken: 20-25 minutes
• Resting Time: 5-10 minutes

Why it’s so efficient:

• One-Pan Cooking: Everything is cooked in a single skillet or Dutch oven, minimizing dishes and cleanup.
• Simple Steps: The cooking process is straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
• Minimal Hands-On Time: While the total time is around 45-55 minutes, the active cooking time is relatively short, allowing you to do other things while the dish simmers.
• Make-Ahead Potential: You can chop the vegetables ahead of time (up to a day in advance) and store them in the refrigerator to further reduce prep time on cooking day.

Tips for Speeding Up Preparation:

• Use Pre-Chopped Vegetables: If available, using pre-chopped onions and bell peppers can save you a few minutes of prep time.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are a convenient and time-saving option compared to dicing fresh tomatoes.
• Efficient Chopping Techniques: Practice efficient knife skills to chop vegetables quickly and evenly.

In summary, One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is a remarkably efficient and time-saving recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners when you want a flavorful and wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The minimal prep and cooking time, combined with one-pan cleanup, make it a true weeknight dinner winner.

How to Serve One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice: Serving Suggestions and Pairings

One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is a complete meal in itself, but it can be elevated and complemented by various serving suggestions and pairings. Here are some ideas to make your dining experience even more enjoyable:

Serving Styles:

• Family Style: Serve directly from the skillet or Dutch oven in the center of the table for a rustic and communal dining experience. Let everyone help themselves.
• Plated Portions: For a more formal setting, plate individual portions, ensuring each plate has a chicken thigh, rice, and vegetables.
• Garnished Elegantly: Garnish each serving with fresh parsley, a lemon wedge, and a few olives for added freshness, brightness, and visual appeal.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread, such as baguette or ciabatta, for soaking up the delicious pan juices and rice.

Side Dish Pairings:

• Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a perfect contrast to the richness of the chicken and rice.
• Spanish Salad (Ensalada Mixta): A traditional Spanish mixed salad with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, olives, and tuna or hard-boiled eggs would complement the Spanish flavors beautifully.
• Roasted Asparagus or Green Beans: Roasted asparagus or green beans add a healthy and vibrant green vegetable side to the meal.
• Grilled or Steamed Broccoli: Broccoli, prepared simply by grilling or steaming, offers another nutritious vegetable side dish.
• Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent side, garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the Spanish flavors.
• Gazpacho Soup (Cold Tomato Soup): In warmer months, a chilled gazpacho soup as a starter would be a refreshing and authentic Spanish pairing.

Topping and Garnish Ideas:

• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
• Olives (Spanish Olives): Spanish olives, such as Manzanilla or Gordal olives, add a briny and salty element that complements the dish.
• Roasted Red Peppers (Pimientos de Padrón): Roasted red peppers, especially Pimientos de Padrón (if available), add a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.
• Manchego Cheese (Shaved or Grated): Shaved or grated Manchego cheese, a Spanish sheep’s milk cheese, adds a salty and nutty flavor.
• Aioli (Garlic Mayonnaise): A dollop of aioli (garlic mayonnaise) can add creaminess and extra garlic flavor.
• Spicy Pimentón Oil: Drizzle with a spicy pimentón oil (olive oil infused with smoked hot paprika) for those who like a touch of heat.

Beverage Pairings:

• Spanish Wine (Rioja, Albariño): Pair with a Spanish wine, such as a Rioja (red) or Albariño (white), for an authentic Spanish dining experience.
• Sangria: Sangria, a Spanish wine punch with fruit, is a festive and refreshing beverage pairing.
• Spanish Beer (Mahou, Estrella Galicia): Spanish beers like Mahou or Estrella Galicia are excellent beer pairings.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: For non-alcoholic options, iced tea or lemonade are refreshing choices.

By exploring these serving suggestions and pairings, you can customize your One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice meal to suit your preferences and create a delightful and well-rounded dining experience.

Additional Tips for Perfect One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice

Want to ensure your One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is consistently delicious and impressive? Here are five additional tips to help you achieve perfection every time:

1. Don’t Skip Searing the Chicken: Searing the chicken thighs (or breasts) at the beginning is a crucial step that should not be skipped. Searing creates a flavorful crust on the chicken, locks in moisture, and renders some of the chicken fat, which adds richness to the dish. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken and sear for a few minutes per side until golden brown.
2. Toast the Rice (Optional but Recommended): For an extra layer of flavor and to prevent stickiness, consider toasting the rice briefly before adding the broth. After sautéing the vegetables and spices, add the rice to the skillet and toast it for 2-3 minutes over medium heat, stirring constantly. Toasting the rice enhances its nutty flavor and helps it absorb liquid more evenly, resulting in fluffier rice.
3. Use Quality Saffron (or Turmeric as a Substitute for Color): Saffron is the key spice that gives Spanish rice its characteristic flavor and color. If possible, use good quality saffron threads. A little goes a long way. If saffron is unavailable or too expensive, you can use turmeric as a substitute for color, but it will not replicate the unique flavor of saffron. If using turmeric, add about ¼ teaspoon to the dish.
4. Control the Liquid Ratio: The correct liquid ratio is essential for perfectly cooked rice. Generally, a 1:2 ratio of rice to liquid (e.g., 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of broth) works well for long-grain rice. For medium-grain rice like Valencia or Bomba rice, you might need slightly more liquid as they absorb more. Follow the recipe instructions carefully and adjust slightly if needed based on your rice type and pan. If the rice is cooking too quickly and the liquid is absorbed before the rice is fully cooked, add a little more broth, ¼ cup at a time.
5. Rest the Dish Before Serving (Crucial): Resting the One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice after cooking is a crucial step that should not be rushed. After simmering, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining moisture, steam evenly, and become perfectly fluffy. Resting also helps the flavors meld together and deepen. Don’t skip the resting step for the best texture and flavor.

By following these additional tips, you can consistently create delicious and authentic One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice that will impress your family and friends every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice

Here are some frequently asked questions about One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice to help you troubleshoot and master this delightful recipe:

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs, but chicken thighs are generally recommended for their richer flavor and moisture. Chicken breasts can be leaner but tend to dry out more easily. If using chicken breasts, consider using bone-in, skin-on breasts for more flavor, or boneless, skinless breasts if preferred. Reduce the cooking time slightly for chicken breasts and ensure they are not overcooked.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan. To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add vegetarian protein sources like chickpeas, cannellini beans, or firm tofu (cubed and sautéed separately) to the dish. For a vegan version, ensure all ingredients are plant-based, including the broth and any garnishes.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to your One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice to increase the nutritional value and customize the flavor. Good additions include zucchini, eggplant, artichoke hearts (canned or frozen), green beans, carrots, or mushrooms. Add heartier vegetables like carrots and mushrooms along with the onions and peppers, and add quicker-cooking vegetables like zucchini and green beans towards the end of the cooking time.

Q4: My rice is mushy/sticky. What did I do wrong?

A: Mushy or sticky rice can be caused by several factors: using the wrong type of rice (e.g., short-grain rice), using too much liquid, or overcooking. Ensure you are using long-grain rice like Basmati or Jasmine rice, or medium-grain rice like Valencia rice. Double-check the liquid ratio and measure accurately. Avoid overcooking the rice; simmer for the recommended time and check for doneness. Resting the dish after cooking also helps absorb excess moisture and prevent mushiness.

Q5: Can I make One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together further. You can cook the dish completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to prevent the rice from drying out.

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