Paella Recipe

Paella is one of Spain’s most iconic dishes—vibrant, hearty, and rich with Mediterranean flavors.

Originating in Valencia, this traditional rice dish combines saffron-infused rice with seafood, chicken, vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a warm, comforting meal, this paella recipe captures the authentic essence of Spanish cooking in a simple, approachable way.

Paella Recipe

This classic paella combines tender chicken, smoky chorizo, fresh shrimp, mussels, and saffron rice cooked in a flavorful broth.

The dish comes together in one pan, allowing the rice to absorb all the savory juices and form the iconic socarrat—the golden crispy layer at the bottom.

Ingredients

Protein & Seafood

• 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless and cut into chunks
• 6 oz (170g) Spanish chorizo, sliced
• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 mussels or clams, cleaned

Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tomato, grated or finely chopped

Rice & Broth

• 2 cups bomba rice (or Arborio as a substitute)
• 4 cups chicken or seafood broth
• ½ tsp saffron threads
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prep the Saffron Broth
   Warm the broth in a saucepan. Add saffron threads and let them steep so the color and flavor infuse.
2. Sear the Chicken & Chorizo
   Heat olive oil in a large paella pan or wide skillet. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned. Add chorizo slices and sauté until they release their oils and turn golden.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
   Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the tomato and smoked paprika, cooking until fragrant.
4. Add the Rice
   Stir in the rice so each grain is coated with the flavorful oil and vegetables. Toast for 1–2 minutes.
5. Pour in the Broth
   Add the saffron-infused broth, salt, and pepper. Do not stir after this point—paella gets its texture from undisturbed cooking. Arrange the chicken and chorizo evenly across the pan.
6. Simmer
   Cook uncovered over medium heat for 15–18 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid.
7. Add Shrimp & Mussels
   Nestle the shrimp and mussels on top of the rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Add the peas as well.
8. Create the Socarrat (Optional but Traditional)
   Increase the heat for the last 2 minutes to crisp the bottom layer of rice. You should hear a gentle crackling sound.
9. Rest Before Serving
   Remove from heat, cover with a clean towel, and let the paella rest for 5 minutes.
10. Garnish & Serve
    Top with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve directly from the pan for an authentic experience.

Conclusion

A traditional paella is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of color, aroma, and culture.

With its delicious mix of meats, seafood, and perfectly seasoned rice, this recipe brings Spanish coastal flavors right to your table.

Enjoy it fresh, share it with loved ones, and savor every bite of this timeless classic.