Paella is one of those crowd-pleasing dishes that brings friends and family together, celebrating Spain’s rich culinary traditions in every bite. Inspired by Jamie Oliver’s approach, this chicken and chorizo version captures the smoky flavor of paprika-kissed sausage, tender chicken morsels, and saffron-stained rice.
Even if you’re new to making paella, this recipe demystifies the process with clear steps and handy tips.
By layering fresh vegetables, a robust sofrito, and the right balance of spices, you create a hearty one-pan meal that looks impressive and tastes even better.
The key is to allow the rice to soak up the aromatic broth without constant stirring, resulting in that signature toasty layer at the bottom of the pan.
Serve it straight from the stove to keep everything piping hot and gather loved ones around for a comforting feast.
With its bright colors, savory aromas, and easy cooking technique, this dish is a guaranteed dinner winner.
Key Takeaways:
- Utilize fresh, high-quality ingredients like bomba rice, smoky chorizo, and juicy chicken thighs to embody the flavors of Spanish cooking.
- Follow a step-by-step approach to achieve the right texture, allowing the rice to absorb broth without constant stirring while maintaining an even simmer.
- Experiment with variations by swapping out proteins or adding vegetables, allowing for personal customization of this classic dish.
How to Choose the Right Ingredients
While putting together your Jamie Oliver Chicken & Chorizo Paella, selecting high-quality ingredients is key. Start with classic staples like bomba rice for flavor absorption and fresh vegetables to elevate your dish. The right balance and freshness will transform your paella from average to extraordinary!
Selecting Quality Chicken
For the best results, opt for juicy chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. They hold up beautifully during cooking, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness. Look for organic or free-range options that guarantee superior taste and texture—your taste buds will thank you!
Picking the Best Chorizo
One of the secrets to a killer paella lies in the chorizo you choose. Go for smoky, high-quality Spanish chorizo to infuse your dish with that authentic kick. This ingredient not only adds flavor but also contributes to a lively color and texture. Whether mild or spicy, a good chorizo brings an irresistible richness that elevates your paella to true culinary art. Don’t just grab any sausage; your paella deserves the best! Aim for a chorizo that looks vibrant and smells fantastic—this is where the magic happens!
Chicken & chorizo paella Recipe by Jamie Oliver
Ingredients
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- ½ a bunch of fresh flat-leaf parsley (15g)
- 70g quality chorizo
- 2 free-range chicken thighs, skin off, bone out
- olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
- 1 red pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato purée
- 1 organic chicken stock cube
- 300g paella rice
- 100g frozen peas
- 200g frozen peeled cooked prawns, from sustainable sources
- 1 lemon
Instructions
- Begin by prepping your flavorful base: peel and finely slice the garlic, peel and roughly chop the onion and carrot, and finely chop those fresh parsley stalks. Then, cut the chorizo and chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces—this way, every forkful has a mix of savory goodness.
- Warm a splash of oil in a large, lidded shallow casserole dish or paella pan over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, carrot, parsley stalks, chorizo, chicken, and paprika. Let everything cook for about five minutes, stirring regularly to ensure the flavors meld.
- Next, remove the seeds from the pepper, chop it up, and toss it into the pan for another five minutes. Stir in the tomato purée and crumble in the stock cube, then sprinkle in the rice. Give it all a couple of minutes to soak up the tasty oils and seasonings.
- Carefully pour in around 750ml of boiling water, adding a little salt and pepper to your liking. Put the lid on, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, giving it a stir now and then from both the edges and the center. If the rice looks thirsty, add a splash more water.
- Stir in the peas and prawns, replace the lid, and let the paella cook for around five more minutes, or until everything is heated through. Once done, season to your personal taste. Chop those reserved parsley leaves and scatter them on top, then serve the paella with fresh lemon wedges on the side. A quick squeeze of lemon juice right before you dig in brings out the best of all those savory Spanish flavors. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information per Serving:
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Calories: ~600 kcal
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Protein: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 60g
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Fat: 20g
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Saturated Fat: 5g
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Fiber: 4g
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Salt: 1.5g
These values are approximations, but they reflect a balanced, hearty dish with a good amount of protein from chicken and chorizo, with carbs from the rice, and a moderate amount of fat.
The Key Ingredients for a Spanish-Style Feast
A great Jamie Oliver Chicken & chorizo paella Recipe begins with fresh, high-quality ingredients that embody the vibrant spirit of Spanish cooking. You’ll need classic staples like bomba or paella rice for its ability to absorb flavors, smoky chorizo for that signature kick, and juicy chicken thighs for succulent protein. Don’t forget aromatic vegetables, fragrant spices, and bright garnishes like parsley or lemon to truly bring this feast to life.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Paella Texture
Achieving the perfect texture in your Jamie Oliver Chicken & chorizo paella Recipe calls for patience and a few simple techniques.
Gently sauté your veggies and proteins first, then stir in the rice so it soaks up the pan juices. Adding hot stock or water maintains an even simmer, while occasionally stirring from the edges prevents scorching.
This careful attention ensures each grain is tender without becoming mushy.
Simple Variations to Make This Dish Your Own
One of the joys of cooking a Jamie Oliver Chicken & chorizo paella Recipe is how easy it is to customize.
Swap out chicken thighs for leaner cuts if you prefer, or add calamari and mussels for a full-on seafood twist.
Vegetarians can replace the meats with hearty veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or garnishes—each variation brings a unique personality to your paella masterpiece.
Tips for Achieving Ideal Texture
Keep your focus on the texture of your paella by following these key tips:
- Gently sauté your veggies and proteins to build flavor.
- Introduce bomba or paella rice for optimal flavor absorption.
- Maintain a steady simmer by adding hot stock.
- Avoid constant stirring to develop that signature toasty layer.
Knowing how to balance these elements will elevate your paella experience from good to unforgettable.
Maintaining Liquid Balance
While creating your paella, achieving the right liquid balance is necessary for a dish where every grain of rice is perfectly cooked. Too much liquid and you’ll end up with a soggy mess, while too little can lead to dry rice. Use hot stock to keep things simmering evenly and ensure that the flavors meld beautifully without watering down the dish.
Avoiding Over-Stirring
One of the secrets to a fantastic paella is knowing when to lay off the stirring. Avoiding over-stirring helps achieve that coveted golden crust, or “socarrat,” at the bottom of the pan. Each stir can disrupt the cooking process and prevent the rice from achieving its full potential. Let it cook undisturbed, allowing the flavors to meld together while also developing that perfect texture.
Ideal texture in your paella relies heavily on controlled cooking. You want to give the rice room to breathe and absorb all those delicious flavors without interference. Constant stirring not only hampers the texture but also risks ruining the delightful toasty layer that makes paella a standout dish. Trust the process—let the heat do its work, and your effort will pay off with a beautifully crafted paella that will wow your friends and family!
Factors for Serving and Presentation
Despite the appeal of your Jamie Oliver Chicken & Chorizo Paella, presentation is key to making it a showstopper at any gathering. To elevate your meal, consider the following:
- Serve straight from the heat to retain its warmth and charm.
- Use vibrant garnishes like parsley and lemon wedges for a splash of color.
- Emphasize the aromatic components to engage the senses.
Recognizing the importance of visual appeal will set the stage for a truly memorable dining experience.
Dish Garnishes
The right garnishes can elevate your paella from delicious to absolutely stunning. Brightly colored ingredients like fresh parsley or slices of lemon not only add visual flair but enhance the flavor profile, making each bite a bit more exciting. Consider adding some peas or red bell peppers for an extra pop of color and texture. Don’t be shy about experimenting with garnishes that bring out the dish’s Latin flair!
Using the Right Cooking Vessel
For creating the perfect paella, your choice of cooking vessel makes a real difference. A traditional paella pan is wide and shallow, allowing for optimal heat distribution and that signature crispy bottom layer known as socarrat. However, if you don’t have one, a large, deep skillet will do the trick as long as it’s heavy enough to handle the heat. Just make sure to avoid non-stick surfaces, as they won’t give you that authentic crust you’re after.
Cooking in a traditional paella pan ensures even heating, imperative for achieving that iconic texture. Use a vessel that’s wide enough to allow the rice to spread out evenly, which helps create that all-important socarrat at the bottom. Also, think about how to maintain a stable heat source—the less you fiddle with it, the better your dish will turn out. Get this part right, and you’re already halfway to making a stellar paella!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Once again, you’ve created a delicious Chicken & Chorizo Paella that deserves a second life! To keep your leftovers tasting fresh, allow them to cool to room temperature before storing. Use airtight containers and make sure to consume them within three days for the best flavor.
Safe Storage Tips
You should ensure your leftovers stay safe and tasty. Here are some quick tips to guide you:
- Let the paella cool before storage.
- Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss.
- Consume within three days for peak freshness.
Thou will avoid food waste and keep your meals on point!
Best Reheating Methods
For the best results, reheat your paella in a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of water to bring back that moisture. This method keeps the rice fluffy and flavors intact without overcooking. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but ensure to cover the dish with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
Storage is all about preserving that delicious flavor from your tasty paella to your next meal. Focus on using airtight containers and placing them in the fridge as soon as possible. When reheating, it’s super important to keep the rice from drying out, as this can ruin that fabulous texture you achieved. If you care about keeping your leftovers in top shape, give them the attention they deserve, ensuring you enjoy every bite exactly as it should be.
Wine Pairing
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White Wine:
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Albariño: A crisp and citrusy Spanish white wine that pairs beautifully with the smoky chorizo and the richness of the chicken.
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Verdejo: Another Spanish wine, known for its fresh and zesty flavor, which complements the spices and seafood in the paella.
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Red Wine:
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Garnacha: A medium-bodied red wine with fruity flavors and light tannins that won’t overpower the dish, but enhance the overall savory profile.
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Sparkling Wine:
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Cava: This Spanish sparkling wine offers refreshing acidity, which pairs well with the richness of the chorizo and the slight heat from paprika.
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These pairings will help elevate the flavors of your paella!
👨🍳 [DID YOU KNOW?] Fascinating facts about paella
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Authentic Ingredients: Paella relies on bomba rice, a short-grain variety that absorbs more flavor without getting mushy. This rice is essential to achieving the signature texture.
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Chorizo’s Role: The choice of smoky, high-quality Spanish chorizo adds richness and depth to the dish, influencing both flavor and color.
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The “Socarrat”: The coveted toasty layer of rice at the bottom of the pan, known as “socarrat,” is a hallmark of great paella. Avoid stirring too much to allow this layer to form.
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Versatility: Paella is highly customizable—feel free to swap chicken for seafood, add vegetables, or experiment with herbs for a personal twist.
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Saffron’s Magic: While not mentioned in this recipe, saffron is typically used in traditional paellas. It imparts a unique flavor and vibrant color, though it can be substituted with paprika for a more accessible option.
Looking for more Jamie Oliver recipes? Check out our full collection.
