When I first made this One Pot Chicken Chorizo Paella, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. There’s nothing quite like the rich aroma of saffron, chorizo, and tender chicken simmering together in one dish.

Not only is it packed with flavor, but the convenience of cooking everything in a single pot makes cleanup a breeze. Every time I make this, I get rave reviews from family and friends, which is why it has become a regular fixture at my dinner table. Trust me—with this recipe, you’ll look forward to every bite.

Ingredients

4 cups chicken stock: Warm the stock beforehand to help infuse the saffron.
1 teaspoon saffron or ½ teaspoon turmeric: Saffron gives the dish authenticity, but turmeric can work as a budget-friendly alternative.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
6 chicken thighs: Bone-in thighs bring more flavor during cooking. Keep the skin on if you love a crisp finish.
1 large onion, finely chopped: A sweet onion works best for a well-rounded flavor.
2 red bell peppers, sliced: These bring a subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
8 ounces chorizo sausage, sliced: Use smoked Spanish chorizo for a bold, rich taste.
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Adds depth and enhances the dish’s fragrance.
½ cup dry vermouth or white wine: Choose a dry wine for a slight tang that balances the other ingredients.
1 tablespoon paprika: Smoked paprika is ideal for an earthy, smoky flavor.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds a concentrated burst of flavor to the base.
A handful of flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped: This garnish brightens the dish and adds a fresh, herby touch.
2 cups uncooked parboiled rice: Opt for long-grain or converted rice like Uncle Ben’s for the best texture.
Salt and pepper to taste

Note: This recipe serves six, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Variations

Making this recipe your own is easy with a few tweaks and substitutions:

Seafood-friendly: Add shrimp or mussels toward the end of cooking for a surf-and-turf twist.
Vegetarian version: Replace chicken and chorizo with chickpeas, artichoke hearts, green beans, and smoked paprika for a plant-based option.
Low-carb option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice; reduce cooking time accordingly.
Extra smoky flavor: Double the smoked paprika or add smoked salt to enhance the dish’s aroma.

If you love skillet recipes, you might enjoy this Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe for another quick and flavorful option.

Cooking Time

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large, deep pan or skillet with a lid
Perfect for cooking the entire dish in one pot.
Measuring cups and spoons
Ensure precise measurements for consistent results.
Sharp knife and cutting board
For chopping meats and vegetables efficiently.
Wooden spoon or spatula
Gentle on the pan and great for stirring the ingredients.

How to Make One Pot Chicken Chorizo Paella?

Making One Pot Chicken Chorizo Paella is simpler than it sounds. It’s all about layering flavors step by step, and trust me, the effort is worth it.

Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Warm your chicken stock and stir in the saffron. Set it aside to allow the flavors to infuse. This step is key to achieving that signature golden color and subtle floral taste. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan and sear the chicken thighs on both sides until golden brown. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

This initial browning locks in moisture and ensures tons of flavor. Lower the heat and toss in the chopped onions and red peppers. Cook for about five minutes until softened. Add the sliced chorizo and continue cooking for two minutes until its oils are released, creating a rich base for the dish. Follow up by adding the garlic and cooking for a minute more.

Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the vermouth or white wine and bring it to a boil, letting the alcohol evaporate. This step lifts all the flavorful bits stuck to the pan, creating a delicious sauce.

Build the Base

Stir in the tomato paste and paprika, blending everything together. Nestle the browned chicken into the pan alongside the parsley and infused stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and reduce the heat to low. Allow the flavors to meld for about 30 minutes.

Once the chicken is tender, stir in the parboiled rice. Cover the pan again and simmer on low for another 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid. Remove the pan from the heat and leave it to rest for 10 minutes.

Season and Serve

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the paella directly from the pot or transfer it to a serving dish for a stunning presentation.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here are a few tricks I’ve learned to make this recipe even more delicious:

Use fresh ingredients wherever possible, especially parsley and garlic, for a vibrant flavor.
Avoid over-stirring once the rice is in; this helps maintain its texture.
Rest the dish at the end of cooking to allow the flavors to deepen.
Opt for high-quality chorizo, as it greatly impacts the dish’s smoky flavor.

You can also enjoy similar recipes like Easy Smothered Chicken Recipe for more comforting chicken dishes.

How to Serve One Pot Chicken Chorizo Paella?

For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the paella right before serving. Lemon wedges on the side allow diners to add a zesty kick if they wish. Pair this hearty dish with a refreshing green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Nutritional Information

Calories	808
Protein	36g
Carbohydrates	62g
Fat	42g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: Paella can be frozen for up to two months, though the rice may soften slightly.
Reheating: Reheat in a pan on low heat with a splash of water or stock to keep it from drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons why this One Pot Chicken Chorizo Paella is a favorite:

Minimal cleanup: Everything is cooked in one pot!
Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences.
Flavor-packed: The combination of saffron, chorizo, and tender chicken is irresistible.
Great for gatherings: It serves a crowd and impresses every time.
Comforting and hearty: A true one-dish wonder.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

Even with the best recipe, some missteps can impact the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

Skipping the saffron: While optional, saffron truly elevates the dish. If you can, don’t skip it.
Using the wrong rice: Avoid instant or quick-cook rice, which doesn’t hold up well in this dish.
Overcooking the chicken: Brown the outside, but don’t cook it through before re-adding it to the pot.
Neglecting resting time: Allow the paella to sit off the heat for 10 minutes, which helps the flavors settle and rice to absorb liquid.

With these tips and this flavorful recipe, you’ll be well on your way to making your best One Pot Chicken Chorizo Paella! For more inspiration, check out these Chicken Recipes that are equally versatile and delicious.

Ash Tyrrell