Chicken and Quinoa Paella is a modern twist on the classic Spanish dish, substituting traditional rice with protein-rich quinoa for a healthier, yet equally flavorful meal. This dish combines tender, seasoned chicken with a colorful medley of vegetables, all cooked together with quinoa in a rich, saffron-infused broth. The result is a hearty, nutritious dish that’s bursting with the vibrant flavors of Spain. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Chicken and Quinoa Paella is a delightful way to enjoy a classic with a nutritious update.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp warm water
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and diced bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Quinoa:
- Add the rinsed quinoa to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, stirring to coat the quinoa with the oil and vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth, turmeric, and saffron with its soaking water. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer with Chicken:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the quinoa simmer for about 15 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
- Stir in the browned chicken, cherry tomatoes, and peas. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded.
- Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the paella rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Chicken and Quinoa Paella is a nutritious and flavorful take on a traditional favorite, offering all the vibrant tastes of a classic paella with the added benefits of quinoa. This dish is perfect for those seeking a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
