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Spanish Chicken Rice

Savory Spanish Chicken Rice One-Pot Wonder for Easy Comfort

This Spanish Chicken Rice recipe is a delicious one-pot meal that brings family together with its rich flavors and easy cleanup.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Bone-in Chicken Thighs Tender and juicy, providing rich flavor
For the Rice Base
  • 1 cup Long-Grain Rice Ideal for absorbing all the savory flavors
  • 4 cups Chicken Stock Infuses the dish with depth
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and color
  • 1 cup Yellow Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and color
  • 1 medium Onion Brings sweetness and complexity
  • 3 cloves Garlic Essential for aromatic flavor
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder Provides color and gentle earthiness
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Delivers a delightful smoky flavor
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro A fragrant touch that brightens the dish
  • 2 pieces Limes Squeeze over the top for a burst of acidity

Equipment

  • large, heavy-bottomed skillet
  • Dutch Oven

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting the bone-in chicken thighs dry with paper towels to enhance the crispiness of the skin. Season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Allow to rest for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes, then set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add diced onions and sliced red and yellow bell peppers, sautéing for around 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring not to burn.
  4. Stir in the long-grain rice, ensuring that each grain is coated in the oil and flavored juices. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Nestle the browned chicken thighs back into the pan on top of the rice. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
  6. After simmering, turn off heat and allow to rest for 5 minutes with the lid on. Fluff rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Make sure the chicken is completely dry before browning it for crispy skin. Avoid lifting the lid during simmering to retain steam.

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