Spanish Chicken and Chorizo: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Spanish Chicken and Chorizo, a vibrant and flavorful dish, is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Imagine tender chicken thighs, infused with the smoky paprika of chorizo, simmered in a rich tomato sauce bursting with the warmth of Spain. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a culinary journey!

This hearty combination of chicken and chorizo has deep roots in Spanish cuisine, reflecting the country’s love for bold flavors and simple, rustic ingredients. Chorizo, a cured sausage seasoned with smoked paprika, is a staple in Spanish cooking, and its unique flavor profile elevates the humble chicken to something truly special. Traditionally, similar dishes were prepared in large earthenware pots over open fires, a testament to the communal and celebratory nature of Spanish meals.

What makes Spanish Chicken and Chorizo so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of savory and slightly spicy, with a depth of flavor that belies its relatively simple preparation. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in the flavorful sauce, and the chorizo releases its smoky oils, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Serve it with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce, over rice for a complete meal, or even alongside roasted vegetables. It’s a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends. I know you’ll love it!

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:

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy!
2. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot).
3. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through at this point; you just want to get a good sear. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
6. Add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.

Adding the Chorizo and Simmering:

1. Add the sliced chorizo to the pot and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until it releases its flavorful oils and starts to brown. The chorizo will add a wonderful smoky and spicy flavor to the dish.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), cannellini beans (rinsed and drained), chicken broth, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine.
3. Add the smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to incorporate the spices.
4. Return the seared chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
5. After 30 minutes, check the chicken for doneness. It should be cooked through and very tender. If it’s not quite there yet, continue to simmer for another 15-30 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

Serving the Spanish Chicken and Chorizo:

1. Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the pot from the heat.
2. Stir in some fresh parsley.
3. Serve the Spanish Chicken and Chorizo hot, over cooked rice or with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
4. Garnish with additional fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for the Best Spanish Chicken and Chorizo:

• Use good quality chorizo. The flavor of the chorizo is crucial to the success of this dish, so choose a good quality Spanish chorizo. Look for one that is firm and has a good balance of smoky and spicy flavors.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when searing the chicken. Overcrowding the pot will lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. Sear the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Adjust the spice level to your liking. The cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat to the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. If you like it spicy, add more!
• Simmer for longer for deeper flavor. The longer you simmer the dish, the more the flavors will meld together and the more tender the chicken will become. I recommend simmering for at least 30 minutes, but you can simmer it for up to an hour for even better results.
• Add other vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Add them along with the bell peppers.
• Make it ahead of time. This dish is even better the next day, as 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. Reheat gently before serving.
• Serve with a variety of sides. Spanish Chicken and Chorizo is delicious served with rice, crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or even polenta. A simple green salad also makes a great accompaniment.

Variations:

• Spicy Chorizo: For an extra kick, use spicy chorizo instead of sweet chorizo.
• Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breast: While I prefer chicken thighs for their flavor and tenderness, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and sear them as directed.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, omit the chicken and chorizo and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant. You can also add a can of chickpeas for extra protein.
• Add Olives: Add a handful of Kalamata olives or green olives to the pot along with the tomatoes for a briny flavor.
• Use Different Beans: If you don’t have cannellini beans, you can use other types of beans, such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or great northern beans.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover Spanish Chicken and Chorizo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent it from drying out.
• Freeze: You can also freeze Spanish Chicken and Chorizo for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 450-550
• Protein: 35-45g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g

This recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. The combination of chicken, chorizo, and vegetables in a smoky and spicy tomato sauce is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Spanish Chicken and Chorizo recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s a vibrant, flavorful journey to the heart of Spain, right in your own kitchen. The smoky paprika, the rich chorizo, and the tender chicken all come together in a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their weeknight dinners or impress guests with a truly authentic and memorable meal.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and uses readily available ingredients. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to nail this recipe. The steps are straightforward, and the result is a dish that tastes like you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen. Plus, the aroma that fills your home while it’s cooking is simply divine! It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it with a side of crusty bread for dipping and a fresh green salad. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some variations?

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped chili to the recipe for an extra kick.
* Vegetable boost: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for added nutrients and texture.
* Seafood twist: Add some shrimp or mussels during the last few minutes of cooking for a paella-inspired dish.
* Creamy delight: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
* Wine Pairing: A crisp Spanish Albariño or a light-bodied Rioja would be the perfect complement to this dish.

I’m confident that you’ll love this Spanish Chicken and Chorizo as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, familiar yet exotic. It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll want to make again and again, and one that you’ll be proud to share with your friends and family.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some Spanish music, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you think? Share your photos and comments in the section below. I’m always eager to see your culinary creations and learn from your experiences. Let’s create a community of passionate home cooks who love to explore the flavors of Spain! I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy cooking!

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