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One Pot Spanish Chicken and Rice

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This one-pot Spanish chicken and rice is a hearty, flavorful meal featuring juicy chicken thighs baked over tender rice in a rich tomato and smoked paprika sauce. Perfect for an easy family dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 chicken thighs (with bone and skin)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 large onion (chopped)
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 red bell peppers (chopped)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 1/2 cups long grain rice (uncooked)
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup olives (pitted and sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
  2. Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear skin-side down until golden brown. Turn and brown the other side, then remove and set aside.
  3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3–5 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, bay leaf, tomato paste, and additional salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
  6. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice mixture. Cover and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  7. Discard the bay leaf, garnish with sliced olives and chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Boneless chicken thighs may be substituted but may require less cooking time.
  • Allow the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for the rice to finish absorbing liquid.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serve with a green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

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