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Easy One-Person Paella

Easy One-Person Paella

This easy paella recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal for one person. It features traditional Spanish flavors with saffron-infused rice, juicy chicken, succulent shrimp, and a variety of vegetables.

Cooking Method
Cuisine
Courses
Difficulty Intermediate
Time
Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 25 mins Total Time: 35 mins
Servings 1
Calories Approximately 500 calories per serving
Best Season
Ingredients
  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
  • 1/2 cup short-grain rice (Arborio or Bomba rice)
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • A pinch of saffron threads
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup frozen peas
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a paella pan or large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add chopped tomatoes, smoked paprika, and saffron threads to the pan. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Stir in the rice and coat it with the vegetable mixture. Cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the rice.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice cook for 15 minutes, or until almost tender.
  6. Nestle the cooked chicken back into the rice mixture, along with peeled shrimp and frozen peas. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
  7. Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Allow the paella to cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes to develop a crispy bottom layer (socarrat).
  8. Once the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed, remove the pan from the heat. Let the paella rest for a few minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Serve the paella hot and enjoy!
Note
  • Use short-grain rice, such as Arborio or Bomba rice, for the best texture.
  • Make sure to season each component of the paella, including the chicken, shrimp, and vegetables, for maximum flavor.
  • Allow the rice to develop a crispy bottom layer, known as socarrat, by cooking it undisturbed towards the end of the cooking process.
  • Customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
  • Garnish the paella with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges before serving for a burst of freshness.
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