🍗 One-Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice (Easy & Flavorful Dinner)

Looking for a comforting and easy one-pan meal? This One-Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is packed with bold spices, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice—all made in a single skillet. Inspired by traditional Spanish flavors, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without the mess.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal = easy cleanup

• Rich, smoky, and savory flavors

• Perfect for family dinners

• Simple ingredients, big taste

🛒 Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 cup long-grain rice

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup frozen peas

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika.
Sear skin-side down for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes, then remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics

In the same pan, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Toast the Rice & Spices

Stir in the rice, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the rice and enhance the flavor.

4. Simmer Everything Together

Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring well. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up.

5. Cook Until Tender

Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 25–30 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

6. Add the Peas

Sprinkle frozen peas over the rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

7. Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve warm.

🔥 Tips for the Best Spanish Chicken and Rice

• Use bone-in chicken for more flavor

• Don’t skip toasting the rice—it adds depth

• Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness

• For extra spice, add chili flakes or hot paprika

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with:

• A fresh green salad

• Crusty bread

• Roasted vegetables

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid drying out the chicken.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

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Meta Title:
One-Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice | Easy Dinner Recipe

Meta Description:
This one-pan Spanish chicken and rice is a quick, flavorful dinner made with tender chicken, spices, and vegetables. Perfect for busy nights!

Focus Keywords:

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