If you’re looking for a one-pot wonder that brings the vibrant flavors of Spain to your dinner table, look no further than this Easy Chicken Paella. This dish combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked Bomba rice, all infused with a delightful blend of spices. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to impress your family on a weeknight, this paella is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will make you feel like a gourmet chef without the fuss!

Why Cooks Rave About It

There’s something magical about paella that captivates the hearts and taste buds of food lovers everywhere. The Easy Chicken Paella is particularly beloved because it’s not only simple to make but also adaptable to suit your tastes. The combination of succulent chicken, sweet vegetables, and the unique texture of Bomba rice creates a symphony of flavors in every bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish for sharing, making it perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Gather These Ingredients

Before embarking on your culinary adventure, let’s gather the essential ingredients for your Easy Chicken Paella:

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 large sweet Vidalia onion or yellow onion, diced small
1 red bell pepper, trimmed, seeded, and diced small
3 cloves of garlic, pressed or finely minced
About 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces, seasoned with salt and pepper
1.1 pounds Bomba rice
4 cups (32 ounces) low-sodium chicken broth
1 packet Paellero
One 15-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
1 cup water, or additional chicken broth, as necessary
1 cup peas, I used frozen that I added straight from freezer
½ cup fresh flat-leaf Italian parsley, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for garnishing

Must-Have Equipment

To create your Easy Chicken Paella, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment:

Large skillet or paella pan: A wide, shallow pan allows for even cooking and helps develop that coveted socarrat (crispy bottom).
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements to ensure the best flavor.
Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping your vegetables and chicken with ease.

Step-by-Step: Easy Chicken Paella

Get ready to create a flavorful masterpiece with this step-by-step guide!

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In your large skillet or paella pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until it’s just golden.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the pan, seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Incorporate the Rice and Spices

Stir in the Bomba rice and the packet of Paellero. Mix well to coat the rice in the oil and flavors, allowing it to toast for about 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the rice’s texture and flavor.

Step 4: Add the Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, petite diced tomatoes (with their juices), and 1 cup of water. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer.

Step 5: Let It Cook

Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Avoid stirring during this time, as you want the rice to develop a lovely crust on the bottom.

Step 6: Add the Peas

After 20 minutes, remove the lid and add the frozen peas directly to the pan. Gently fold them into the rice mixture and cover again. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove the pan from heat and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then sprinkle with fresh parsley and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve your Easy Chicken Paella with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top, enhancing the flavors even further.

International Equivalents

If you’re curious about how to refer to some of the ingredients in different regions, here’s a handy list:

Bomba Rice: Often referred to as “Spanish rice” or “paella rice”.
Paellero: Known as “paella seasoning” in some places.
Sweet Vidalia Onion: Similar to “Walla Walla onion” or “Maui onion”.
Red Bell Pepper: Sometimes called “capsicum” in various countries.

Steer Clear of These

To ensure your Easy Chicken Paella turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken or rice at once can lead to uneven cooking.
Stirring too much: Stirring the rice while it cooks can prevent the formation of the crispy socarrat.
Using regular rice: Bomba rice is essential for achieving the right texture; other types may not yield the same results.
Skipping the resting time: Letting the paella sit after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Leftover Easy Chicken Paella can be stored for quick meals throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating on the stove to restore moisture.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use other proteins in this paella?

Absolutely! Shrimp, chorizo, or even a mix of seafood can be delightful substitutes for chicken. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is Bomba rice necessary for paella?

While Bomba rice is traditional and recommended for its ability to absorb flavors, you can use other short-grain rice varieties if needed, though the texture may differ slightly.

Can I make this paella in advance?

You can prepare the paella ahead of time and reheat it, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

What can I serve with paella?

Paella is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a light salad or crusty bread for a balanced dining experience.

Next Up in Your Queue

If you loved this Easy Chicken Paella, here are some more recipes to try:

The Takeaway

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. This Easy Chicken Paella showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a stunning dish that’s bursting with flavor. Remember, cooking is about enjoying the process and sharing good food with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor a taste of Spain in your own kitchen!