One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice: Bold Flavor for Busy Nights

Name: One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine); 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1/4 tsp saffron threads; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

September 7, 2025

Updated:

September 7, 2025

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One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is like a fiesta in your kitchen, bursting with bold flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a rich, saffron-infused broth, while vibrant vegetables add color and crunch. The aroma wafts through your home, promising a meal that’s not only delicious but also easy to clean up—what’s not to love?

This dish has been my secret weapon on busy weeknights when time is tight, and the dinner dilemma looms large. Friends have marveled at how something so flavorful can be whipped up with minimal fuss. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving comfort food after a long day, One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice is sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice recipe simplifies meal prep while delivering vibrant flavors that please everyone
The colorful ingredients make for an eye-catching presentation, perfect for any occasion
Plus, the one-pan cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal without the stress of dishes piling up

I remember the first time I made this dish; my family couldn’t stop raving about how it tasted like something from a fancy restaurant.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicier than breasts and cook beautifully in the flavorful broth.
Long-Grain Rice: Opt for basmati or jasmine rice for fluffy grains that soak up all the delicious sauce.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green for a colorful presentation and sweet flavor.
Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish; don’t skip it!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch that elevates every bite; always use fresh cloves if possible.
Tomato Paste: This thickens the sauce and adds richness; look for high-quality tomato paste for best results.
Saffron Threads: A pinch goes a long way in adding its distinct color and unique flavor—worth every penny.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while maximizing flavor.
Olive Oil: A good drizzle helps brown the chicken perfectly and enhances flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds freshness and color just before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces while mincing your garlic. This makes everything easier when it’s time to cook.

Sear the Chicken Thighs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side.

Add Aromatics and Rice: Toss in the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic into the pan until they soften, releasing their delightful aromas. Stir in rice for an even coating of flavor.

Create the Flavorful Broth: Mix tomato paste into the pan along with chicken broth and saffron threads. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low.

Simmer Away!: Cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Allow it to simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes until rice absorbs most of the liquid and becomes tender.

Finishing Touches!: Once cooked through, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before uncovering. Fluff with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped parsley!

Enjoy this delightful One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice as a crowd-pleaser or simply treat yourself on those busy nights!

You Must Know

This One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights
It’s vibrant, aromatic, and guarantees a delightful dinner with minimal cleanup
Plus, the colors and flavors will make your kitchen feel like a Mediterranean escape

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to create that beautiful golden crust. Then, add rice and broth to cook together while soaking up all those fantastic flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the veggies based on what you have. Add olives for a salty kick or toss in peas for a pop of sweetness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to revive its moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect results, always season your chicken generously before cooking
Use high-quality broth for deeper flavor
Lastly, let it rest post-cooking for juicier bites!

I once made this dish for friends who were skeptical about one-pan meals. Their surprised faces when they tasted the rich flavors were priceless!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time; brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

What other proteins can I use in this recipe?

You can substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice it up!

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