2cupshort-grain paella rice (such as Bomba or Calasparra)
4cupchicken broth
1pinchsaffron threads
1lbchicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
6ozSpanish chorizo, sliced
1largeonion, finely chopped
4clovegarlic, minced
1largered bell pepper, diced
1cupgreen beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1largetomato, grated or finely chopped
0.25cupextra-virgin olive oil
1tspsmoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1wholelemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or wide, shallow skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add the sliced chorizo and cook until it releases its oils and begins to crisp. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes.
Stir in the grated tomato and smoked paprika. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Add the green beans and stir to combine. Return the chicken and chorizo to the pan.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the saffron threads. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sprinkle the rice evenly over the mixture. Do not stir after this point. Simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
For best results, use a traditional paella pan to achieve the characteristic socarrat (crispy bottom layer of rice). Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.