How to make Spanish One-Pan Chicken with Chorizo and Bell Peppers

Spanish One-Pan Chicken with Chorizo and Bell Peppers

Spanish One-Pan Chicken with Chorizo and Bell Peppers is a vibrant, flavorful dish that encapsulates the essence of Spain's rich culinary landscape. This dish masterfully combines juicy chicken thighs and smoky Chorizo sausage with the sweet and colorful presence of bell peppers. Each ingredient contributes to an intricate tapestry of flavors—tender chicken infused with the deep, spicy undertones of Chorizo and the mild sweetness of bell peppers, creating a harmonious yet bold taste experience.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Spanish

Servings 5 people

Calories 658 kcal

Equipment

• 1 small cup
• 1 pan

Ingredients

  

For Chicken

• 3 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 large ripe tomato
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 red onion
• 1 1/2 cup rice
• Olive oil
• 6 oz. Chorizo sausage
• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 4 chicken thighs

For Spice Rub

• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

Keyword chicken thighs, tomato paste

Cooking tips about Spanish One-Pan Chicken with Chorizo and Bell Peppers

• Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality chicken thighs, as they are more flavorful and remain juicier during cooking compared to breast meat. Choose Chorizo that is rich in spices and has a good fat content for a deeper flavor profile. Select fresh, colorful bell peppers for sweetness and visual appeal.
• Marination: Marinate the chicken thighs in olive oil, garlic, and Spanish paprika (sweet or smoked, according to your preference) before cooking. This not only seasons the chicken but also tenderizes it and adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
• Sear the Chicken: Begin by searing the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan until golden brown. This process locks in the juices and provides a crispy texture to the skin, adding a delightful contrast to the dish.
• Cook Chorizo First: Slice the Chorizo and cook it slightly before adding the chicken back into the pan. The Chorizo releases oils that are full of flavor, which will coat the vegetables and chicken, infusing the entire dish with a smoky richness.
• Layering Flavors: After the Chorizo has started to render its fat, add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the pan, allowing them to soften and absorb the flavors from the Chorizo and chicken.
• Deglaze the Pan: Incorporate a splash of dry white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor and will contribute to the sauce.
• One-Pan Wonder: Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it among the peppers and Chorizo. Add any herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for additional aroma. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and ability to cook everything in one pan, making for easier preparation and cleanup.
• Oven Finishing: Transfer the pan to a preheated oven to finish cooking the chicken through. This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked without overcooking the other components, keeping everything juicy and tender.

Serving suggestions about Spanish One-Pan Chicken with Chorizo and Bell Peppers

• Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair this brilliantly flavored dish with slices of freshly baked, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the rich juices and ensuring that none of the flavorful sauce goes to waste.
• Pair with a Simple Salad: Complement the robust flavors of the chicken, chorizo, and bell peppers with a light and crisp salad. A mix of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice can add a refreshing contrast to the meal.
• Offer Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier accompaniment, consider serving the dish alongside a side of fluffy rice or quinoa. These grains can absorb the savory juices and make the meal more satisfying.
• Select a Spanish Wine: Elevate your dining experience by pairing the dish with a Spanish wine that matches the boldness of chorizo and the sweetness of the bell peppers. A light, fruity Tempranillo or a full-bodied Rioja can complement the flavors wonderfully.
• Roasted Vegetables on the Side: Offer a side of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms, to add another layer of texture and earthiness to the meal, enhancing the Mediterranean vibe.
• A Touch of Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. This not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also introduces a fresh flavor that brightens the overall taste.
• Spanish Olives and Cheese Platter: Start the meal with a selection of Spanish olives and cheeses, such as Manchego or Iberico, allowing guests to nibble and enjoy the variety of flavors before the main course.
• Family-Style Presentation: Embrace the convivial spirit of Spanish dining by serving the one-pan chicken family-style, encouraging everyone to dive in and share. This approach fosters a warm, communal dining experience reminiscent of Spanish culture.
• A Splash of Citrus: Offering lemon wedges around the table allows guests to add a hint of citrusy brightness to their plate, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and chorizo.

Top 5 FAQs about Spanish One-Pan Chicken with Chorizo and Bell Peppers

• What are the main ingredients needed for Spanish One-Pan Chicken with Chorizo and Bell Peppers? The essential ingredients for this flavorful dish include chicken thighs, Chorizo sausage, and bell peppers of various colors. Together, these components create a vibrant palette of flavors and textures, each adding its unique taste to the mix.
• How can I ensure the chicken remains juicy and flavorful? To keep the chicken moist and packed with flavor, start by marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and Spanish paprika. Searing the chicken skin-side down initially locks in the juices, and finishing the cooking process in the oven ensures it cooks through evenly without drying out.
• What type of Chorizo should I use, and how does it affect the dish? Opt for a high-quality smoky Chorizo that is rich in spices for the most authentic flavor. The fat content in the Chorizo helps to infuse the entire dish with its deep, spicy flavors, contributing significantly to the overall taste profile of the recipe.
• Can I make Spanish One-Pan Chicken with Chorizo and Bell Peppers in advance? While this dish is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the ideal texture of the chicken and bell peppers, you can prepare elements of it in advance. For example, marinate the chicken earlier and chop your vegetables. However, the final cooking should be done before serving to ensure the best results.
• Are there any variations or additions that complement this dish well? To add more depth or variety, consider incorporating sliced onions, chunks of potatoes, or a splash of dry white wine or chicken broth when deglazing the pan. Each addition can bring new dimensions of flavor, making the dish even more satisfying. For a more aromatic experience, sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before transferring the pan to the oven.