There’s something about the smoky richness of chorizo, golden-seared chicken, and a tomato-kissed rice base that turns an ordinary evening into a flavorful celebration. This weeknight Chicken & Chorizo Paella delivers vibrant Spanish essence without the hours of prep.
With bright pops of red bell pepper, soft peas, and optional spinach stirred through, this one-pan wonder is hearty, wholesome, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s fast enough for a midweek fix yet delicious enough to impress dinner guests. Plus, it tastes even better the next day — a true kitchen win!
Full Recipe:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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350g (12 oz) chicken thigh fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
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180g (6 oz) chorizo, sliced into small chunks
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1 small brown onion, diced
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1 small red bell pepper (capsicum), roughly chopped
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2 cups packed fresh spinach, shredded (optional)
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 can (400g/14oz) crushed tomatoes
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1½ cups chicken stock
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⅓ cup frozen peas (divided)
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1 tsp paprika
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1 cup Spanish calasparra rice (or medium grain rice as substitute)
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1½ tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Season chicken with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or paella pan over high heat. Add chicken and sear both sides until golden. Remove and set aside (it will finish cooking later).
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Add garlic, onion, and chorizo to the pan (no extra oil needed). Cook for 1 minute until chorizo begins to brown.
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Add chopped bell pepper and cook for another minute until the chorizo is deep golden.
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Stir in the rice to coat it with the flavorful oils.
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Pour in chicken stock, crushed tomatoes, half the peas, spinach (if using), and paprika. Mix gently.
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Nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the pan.
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Simmer uncovered (do not stir) for 10 minutes. Scatter remaining peas on top, cook 5 more minutes until most liquid is absorbed and rice is tender but al dente.
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Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to finish absorbing.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 448 kcal | Servings: 5
Introduction to Midweek Chicken & Chorizo Paella
Midweek dinners can often be a rush, balancing limited time with the desire to serve something both satisfying and flavorful. That’s where the Midweek Chicken & Chorizo Paella steps in—a vibrant, hearty one-pan meal that channels the essence of traditional Spanish paella but in a much faster, simplified form. This dish is a celebration of textures and flavors: the juicy chicken, the smoky richness of chorizo, the tender grains of rice absorbing every layer of flavor, and the colorful medley of vegetables woven throughout. It’s not just a dinner—it’s an experience you can create in 30 minutes flat, even on your busiest nights.
Why This Paella Works for Busy Nights
The brilliance of this recipe lies in its balance between speed and depth of flavor. Traditional paella is known for its complexity and often demands hours of preparation, including homemade stock and a wide selection of seafood. But this streamlined version brings the same comfort and richness with ingredients that are easy to find in any supermarket. By focusing on high-impact elements—particularly quality chorizo and well-seasoned chicken—this paella builds a flavorful base in minutes. The dish is designed for efficiency, making it accessible to anyone, regardless of cooking experience.
A One-Pot Wonder with Spanish Flair
Cooking everything in one skillet isn’t just about convenience—it’s a key part of how this dish builds flavor. The oils released from the chorizo infuse the pan, coating the vegetables and rice with a smoky, spicy essence. It’s not just about saving dishes; it’s about layering flavor. The rice cooks in the same pan, absorbing the juices from the meats, the stock, and the tomatoes, becoming rich and tender while staying separate—never mushy. This is the genius of a well-made paella, even in its simplified form.
Using Everyday Ingredients to Create Magic
One of the most inviting aspects of this recipe is its reliance on common, pantry-friendly ingredients. There’s no need for specialty seafood or elaborate broths. Boneless chicken thighs bring juiciness and richness. Chorizo—especially if you can find a quality, spicy version—acts as the flavor anchor of the entire dish. Garlic, onion, and bell pepper bring aromatics and sweetness, while frozen peas and optional spinach add color and nutrition. It’s a practical yet exciting mix that’s as friendly to your grocery budget as it is to your palate.
The Importance of the Right Rice
While the recipe is flexible, the type of rice used can subtly change the dish’s outcome. Ideally, a Spanish rice like Calasparra is used—it’s highly absorbent and low in starch, meaning it soaks up all the flavor without turning creamy like risotto. However, if that’s not available, medium-grain rice works beautifully. Even long-grain rice can be used with slight adjustments to liquid levels. This flexibility makes the dish more accessible while still honoring the spirit of a true paella.
Flavor Profile: Smoky, Savory, Satisfying
What sets this paella apart is its deep, developed flavor in such a short cook time. The paprika and chorizo combine to deliver warmth and smokiness. The crushed tomatoes add brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the meats. The final dish is deeply savory, layered, and satisfying without being heavy. It’s comfort food with a Mediterranean soul, perfect for cozy evenings or informal gatherings with friends and family.
Customizing the Dish to Your Taste
One of the great joys of a dish like this is how easily it can be tailored. If you prefer more vegetables, you can add zucchini, mushrooms, or even roasted eggplant. Not a fan of chicken? Swap it for shrimp or turkey sausage. Want to turn up the heat? Add a pinch of chili flakes. The beauty of this paella is that it acts as a canvas, and once you master the basic method, you’re free to experiment and make it your own. It also adapts well to dietary needs—omit the chorizo for a lower-fat version, or use brown rice and leaner protein sources for a lighter variation.
Great for Leftovers and Meal Prep
Unlike many rice dishes that become soggy or dry when reheated, this paella holds up impressively well. It keeps its texture, and the flavors often deepen after a night in the fridge. That makes it perfect for meal prepping—you can easily make a big batch and enjoy it over a few days without sacrificing quality. Just a quick reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth is all it takes to bring it back to life. It’s a dish that offers value beyond just one meal, which makes it ideal for busy households or solo cooks alike.
Serving Suggestions
While this paella is designed to be a complete meal in itself, you can round it out with a few simple additions. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette is a great way to cut through the richness. A glass of dry white wine or a Spanish Tempranillo complements the smoky flavors beautifully. If you’re entertaining, serve it with a side of crusty bread or garlic aioli for an indulgent touch. Even just a squeeze of lemon over the top before serving can brighten the dish and elevate its flavors.
What Makes It Different from Traditional Paella
Traditional paella often includes a mix of seafood, saffron, and painstaking techniques like slowly simmered broth. This version skips the saffron (a costly and often hard-to-find spice) in favor of paprika, which gives a similar warmth without the price tag. Instead of seafood, it leans on the bold flavors of chorizo and the satisfying bite of chicken thigh. The result is a dish that pays homage to its Spanish roots while remaining entirely approachable for everyday cooks. It’s a smart, sensible adaptation that captures the spirit of paella while eliminating the stress.
A Balanced, Family-Friendly Meal
From a nutritional standpoint, this paella hits a sweet spot. It delivers a good mix of protein, complex carbs, and vegetables. The optional spinach adds iron and fiber, while the peas provide a gentle sweetness and additional nutrients. You’re getting a filling, wholesome meal that feels indulgent but doesn’t derail your health goals. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt for low-sodium or low-fat diets. It’s a meal that works for everyone—kids, adults, foodies, and picky eaters alike.
Conclusion: Why You Should Make This Dish Tonight
The Midweek Chicken & Chorizo Paella is more than just a quick recipe—it’s a strategy for joyful, flavorful cooking even when time is short. It combines the rustic elegance of Spanish cuisine with the practicality required by everyday life. In one pan, you get comfort, nutrition, and flavor that punches above its weight. It’s easy to make, easy to love, and easy to share. Whether you’re cooking for your family, your friends, or just yourself after a long day, this dish delivers satisfaction without complication. And the best part? You’ll probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
So next time you’re tempted to grab takeout or throw together a bland meal, remember this paella. With a bit of chorizo, some well-seasoned chicken, and a little patience, you can create something extraordinary from the ordinary—and in just about 30 minutes.
Let this be your go-to recipe when you need dinner fast, but refuse to compromise on flavor. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.