Spanish Chicken and Rice Recipe: A Flavorful Fiesta in Your Kitchen
This vibrant and flavorful Spanish Chicken and Rice recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, packed with delicious ingredients, and incredibly satisfying. Let's dive into this culinary adventure!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities depending on your needs.
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Rice and Vegetables:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads (optional, but adds a beautiful color and flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
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Season the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Make sure each piece is well seasoned.
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Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Rice and Vegetables:
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened (about 3-5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), rice, chicken broth, oregano, and saffron (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer and combine: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
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Combine chicken and rice: Gently stir in the cooked chicken. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Your Delicious Spanish Chicken and Rice:
Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Add some beans: A can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans adds extra protein and texture.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like corn, peas, or zucchini.
- Make it a one-pot meal: For even easier cleanup, use a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
This Spanish Chicken and Rice recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of making it and savor the wonderful flavors! Remember to share your culinary creations using #SpanishChickenAndRice. Happy cooking!