Authentic Paella Chicken Artichokes (Printable version)

A flavorful Valencian dish combining chicken, artichokes, and fragrant rice for a rich main course.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 1.1 lb bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, cut into pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, sliced
05 - 7 oz frozen or canned artichoke hearts, quartered
06 - 7 oz ripe tomatoes, grated or finely chopped
07 - 3.5 oz green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

→ Rice & Broth

08 - 1½ cups short-grain rice (Bomba or Arborio)
09 - 3⅓ cups chicken broth

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
11 - ½ tsp saffron threads (or 1 tsp turmeric)
12 - 1 tsp salt, or to taste
13 - ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Oils & Extras

14 - 3 tbsp olive oil
15 - Lemon wedges, for serving
16 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Warm olive oil in a large paella pan or wide skillet over medium heat.
02 - Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides for 6 to 8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
03 - In the same pan, sauté onion and red bell pepper for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
04 - Stir in garlic, green beans, and artichoke hearts; cook for 2 minutes.
05 - Add grated tomatoes and smoked paprika; cook until moisture evaporates, about 4 minutes.
06 - Return chicken to the pan and sprinkle saffron or turmeric, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
07 - Stir in rice, coating grains evenly with the tomato mixture.
08 - Pour in chicken broth, spread rice evenly, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
09 - Simmer uncovered without stirring for 18 to 20 minutes until rice is nearly tender and most liquid is absorbed.
10 - Increase heat for the last 2 to 3 minutes to form a crispy bottom layer, watching closely to prevent burning.
11 - Remove from heat, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
12 - Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Gluten-Free and budget-friendly
  • Rich in protein and vegetables
02 -
  • Use homemade chicken broth for the best taste
  • Substitute rabbit for some or all of the chicken for a more traditional touch
03 -
  • For extra flavor add a sprig of rosemary with the broth
  • Pair with a crisp Spanish white wine or light red
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