Name: Spanish Chicken and Chorizo: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 4 oz Spanish chorizo, sliced (about 1/4 inch thick); 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional); 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste); Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Cooked rice or crusty bread, for serving

Spanish Chicken and Chorizo, a symphony of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Imagine tender chicken thighs, infused with the rich, paprika-laden essence of chorizo, simmered in a vibrant tomato-based sauce. Are you drooling yet? I know I am just thinking about it!

This dish isn't just delicious; it's a culinary journey to the heart of Spain. While variations abound across different regions, the combination of chicken and chorizo is a classic pairing, reflecting Spain's love for robust, flavorful ingredients. Chorizo, with its distinct smoky paprika notes, is a staple in Spanish cuisine, and its marriage with chicken creates a truly unforgettable taste experience.

People adore Spanish Chicken and Chorizo for its incredible depth of flavor and its comforting, hearty nature. The combination of tender chicken, spicy chorizo, and a rich tomato sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make! This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The best part? It's a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup for you! So, get ready to transport your taste buds to Spain with this simple yet satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
4 oz Spanish chorizo, sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended!)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Cooked rice or crusty bread, for serving

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables:

First, let's get the chicken ready. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the pan. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Don't be shy!
Now, heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is nice and hot before adding the chicken.
Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. You might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of browning it. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. The chicken doesn't need to be cooked all the way through at this point, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until slightly softened. Stir occasionally.

Building the Flavorful Sauce:

Add the sliced Spanish chorizo to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the chorizo is lightly browned and has released some of its flavorful oils. The chorizo will add a wonderful smoky and spicy flavor to the dish.
Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and the cannellini beans. Stir to combine.
Pour in the chicken broth and the dry white wine (if using). The white wine adds a lovely depth of flavor, but you can substitute with more chicken broth if you prefer.
Add the smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine all the spices. The smoked paprika is key to getting that authentic Spanish flavor!
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Combining and Simmering:

Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the sauce.
Cover the skillet and simmer for at least 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to taste.

Serving:

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat.
Stir in some fresh chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
Serve the Spanish chicken and chorizo hot over cooked rice or with crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success:

Browning the Chicken: Don't skip the step of browning the chicken! This adds a lot of flavor to the dish. Make sure your pan is hot and don't overcrowd it.
Chorizo Choice: Use Spanish chorizo for the most authentic flavor. Mexican chorizo is a different product and will not give you the same result.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you're sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.
Wine Substitution: If you don't have white wine, you can substitute with more chicken broth or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bit of acidity.
Slow Simmer: Simmering the dish for a longer period of time will allow the flavors to meld together and create a richer, more complex sauce.
Make Ahead: This dish is even better the next day! The flavors have more time to develop. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Spanish Chicken and Chorizo freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions:

Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa.
Bread: Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Potatoes: Serve with roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes.
Salad: A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Vegetables: Serve with steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli.

Variations:

Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
Use Different Beans: You can substitute the cannellini beans with other types of beans, such as chickpeas or kidney beans.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper for extra heat.
Add Olives: Add some Kalamata olives or green olives for a briny flavor.
Use Chicken Breast: While chicken thighs are more flavorful, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook it.

Enjoy your delicious Spanish Chicken and Chorizo! I hope you love it as much as I do. It's a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion:

This Spanish Chicken and Chorizo recipe isn't just another dish; it's a vibrant culinary journey to the heart of Spain, right in your own kitchen! The smoky chorizo, tender chicken, and fragrant saffron-infused rice create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. It's a one-pan wonder that's surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering. Trust me, the aroma alone will have your family and friends gathering around the table in anticipation. But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of chorizo – a spicy version will add an extra kick, while a sweet chorizo will offer a delightful contrast to the savory chicken. You can also adjust the amount of saffron to your liking; a little goes a long way, but don't be afraid to be generous for a richer, more authentic flavor. Looking for serving suggestions? This Spanish Chicken and Chorizo is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. A dollop of creamy aioli on top adds a touch of richness and complements the smoky flavors perfectly. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. And the variations are endless! If you're a seafood lover, add some shrimp or mussels during the last few minutes of cooking for a paella-inspired twist. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans and add some extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts. You could even stir in some peas at the end for a pop of color and sweetness. Don't be intimidated by the ingredient list – most of these items are readily available at your local grocery store. And the cooking process is straightforward and forgiving. Even if you're a beginner cook, I'm confident that you can create a restaurant-quality dish with this recipe. I've poured my heart and soul into perfecting this Spanish Chicken and Chorizo recipe, and I'm so excited for you to try it. I truly believe that it's a dish that will bring joy and satisfaction to your table. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience, a celebration of flavors, and a chance to connect with loved ones over a shared culinary adventure. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some Spanish music, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey. I promise you won't be disappointed. Once you've tried this recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to improve and create even more amazing recipes for you. Happy cooking! I can't wait to see what you create!