Spanish Paella

I grew up eating different variations of Spanish Paella that my Abuelita (grandmother) would make for our family. So when I started cooking for my own family, I knew I had to incorporate this traditional recipe into our routine!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Paella Recipe

This paella recipe is easy to make, nourishing, comforting, and so full of flavor. If you have loved my easy, one-pan recipes, like Spanish Rice & Beans or Creamy Healthy Chicken Enchilada Skillet, then you’re going to really LOVE this Chicken & Shrimp Spanish Paella!

Here’s why I’m obsessed with this recipe:

• It can all be made in one skillet.
• It’s quick and easy – no complicated methods here!
• It’s adjustable.
• Feeding a crowd or want to freeze leftovers for later? This recipe is perfect for batch cooking!

This is truly one of my favorite go-to healthy dinner recipes!

Watch Spanish Paella Video

Chicken and Shrimp Recipe Ingredients

Here are some of the main ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

Chicken Breasts – Don’t have chicken breasts on hand? Any type of chicken will work just fine. Another option is to use meat from a rotisserie chicken and simply add it in at the end!

Note: Get high quality, organic meats (like the chicken you’ll need for this recipe) at Butcher Box for a discounted price. The best part? They deliver it right to your doorstep!

Shrimp – Buying pre-cooked shrimp is perfect for saving time on this recipe! Just make sure that they are deveined, tail-off, and thawed before getting started.

Rice – If you can find Bomba Paella Rice, that typically works best for Spanish paella. In this case, I just used a brown rice mix that worked wonderfully!

Onion – Fresh, chopped onion is best for this recipe. However, dried onion flakes work great too!

Tomatoes – Grape tomatoes or a regular tomato works perfectly.

Chicken Broth – Don’t have chicken broth? Vegetable broth is a great substitution!

Spices/Herbs – Paprika, dried parsley, red chili powder, crushed garlic, turmeric. Delicious!

Saffron Threads – Saffron Threads are a unique flavor in Spanish Paella. However, if you aren’t able to get them, simply omit them from the recipe!

Lemon – Lemon juice adds a special zesty flavor to this yummy recipe!

Equipment

We love how this Chicken & Shrimp Spanish Paella comes together in a cast iron skillet. However, a regular cooking pan works great, too!

How to Make Spanish Paella

1. Cook the chicken and onion in a skillet.

2. Add in the rice, saffron threads, and other spices. Continue to cook.

3. Add in the broth, bring to a boil, then allow to simmer (covered).

4. Add in the shrimp and tomatoes and continue to cook.

Shrimp Paella Recipe Variations and Tips

• Seafood Options: Swap the shrimp for scallops, mussels, or clams for a more traditional seafood paella.
• Different Protein: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or add Spanish chorizo for a smoky kick.
• Rice Choices: Traditional paella is made with short-grain rice like Bomba or Arborio, but you can also use jasmine or basmati in a pinch.
• More Vegetables: I love adding bell peppers, peas, or artichoke hearts.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red chili powder based on your spice preference, or add a pinch of cayenne for more heat.

Tips for the Best Paella:

• Sauté the spices with the rice before adding broth to bring out their flavors.
• Avoid stirring too much after adding the broth—this helps create the delicious crispy layer of rice at the bottom, known as “socarrat.”
• Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow all the flavors to meld together.

What to Serve With this Chicken and Shrimp Recipe

This paella is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with a few sides makes for an even more satisfying dinner. Here are some great options:

• Crusty Bread: A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra flavors. This is one of my favorite ways to enjoy paella!
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing is so good.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a delicious, nutritious side.
• Patatas Bravas: These crispy Spanish-style potatoes with a smoky paprika sauce are a great addition.
• Spanish Tapas: Serve with small plates like marinated olives, garlic shrimp, or manchego cheese for a full Spanish-inspired meal.

How to Store Chicken Paella

This recipe is perfect as a make ahead or freezer meal! Simply make it according to the directions below, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator (without the lid) for about an hour. Once it’s cooled off, add the airtight lid and store in the refrigerator for up to a week or the freezer for up to 3 months!

More easy dinners you’ll love

• Easy Vegetarian Enchiladas Recipe
• The BEST Coconut Lentil & Chickpea Curry
• Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
• The BEST Easy Healthy Lasagna Recipe

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