Spanish Chorizo & Chicken with Mushrooms Paella : A Traditional Spanish Classic

Bring the rich, vibrant flavors of Spain to your table with this Spanish Chorizo and Chicken Paella with Mushrooms. A true crowd-pleaser, this dish is a celebration of Spain’s culinary artistry, showcasing the perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and earthy ingredients. Paella—a signature dish of Spanish cuisine—has long stood as a symbol of tradition, community, and festive gatherings. This recipe stays true to its roots while adding a flavorful twist with a kick of poultry spice rub and the irresistible aromas of saffron threads. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this Spanish Chorizo-infused paella is guaranteed to impress and delight your guests. Don't forget to pair it with a refreshing glass of sangria for the ultimate Spanish feast.

Prep Time: 30 mintues | Cook Time: 60 minutes | Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons Spice rub, see recipe below
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 6 cups chicken broth
• ¼ teaspoon crumbled saffron threads
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 links Aurelia’s Spanish Chorizo sliced into ¼ inch thick slices
• 8 ounces white mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium tomato, grated or finely diced
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 tablespoons minced flat leaf parsley
• 3 cups short grain rice
• 2 cups green peas
• Roasted red pepper strips for garnish
• Kosher salt

Directions:

Terry Thompson Anderson’s Secret Poultry Spice Rub
Makes about ¾ cup.

• ¼ cup cumin seed
• 2 tablespoons coriander seed
• 1½ teaspoons Tellicherry peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons Spanish smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons salt

To make the spice mix, toast the cumin and coriander seeds until very aromatic. Grind them to a powder with the peppercorns. Transfer to a small bowl and blend in remaining spices, mixing thoroughly. Store in airtight container.

Combine chicken broth and saffron in large pot and heat to almost boiling. (Do not let it boil, or it will evaporate.) Dust spice rub and salt over chicken thighs.

Paella

In a 15" paella pan, over 2 burners, heat olive oil. Brown chicken on all sides, but do not cook through. Remove from pan and set aside. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until onion is wilted and translucent. Add chorizo and mushrooms, cook for 2 minutes. Add tomato, garlic and parsley. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until mushrooms begin to soften and garlic becomes aromatic.

Add 3 cups rice; stir to coat with pan drippings. Return chicken thighs to pan. Carefully add the hot saffron chicken broth. Taste and adjust the salt if needed. Bring the stock to a boil; cook for 15 minutes rotating pan over two burners. Scatter peas evenly over entire pan but do not stir. Garnish the top of paella with strips of roasted red peppers. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until all broth has been absorbed. Turn off heat. Cover with foil or a clean towel and let rest for 5-10 min. Serve and enjoy!

Why Paella Is the Crown Jewel of Spanish Cuisine

Originating from the coastal region of Valencia, Paella is a dish deeply steeped in Spanish tradition and culture. Historically prepared over an open fire and shared among families and friends, Paella represents more than just food; it embodies the spirit of togetherness and celebration. From its vibrant saffron-hued rice to its wholesome medley of ingredients, every bite of Paella tells a story of Spain’s rich culinary heritage. Our Spanish Chorizo and Chicken Paella recipe exemplifies this tradition by combining time-honored techniques with bold, authentic flavors. It’s a masterpiece of textures, aromas, and tastes that proudly represents the pinnacle of Spanish cuisine. Prepare to savor a dish that promises not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience.

Dive in, and let every spoonful transport you to the sun-soaked shores of Spain!

Pro Tip: Choose Authentic Spanish Chorizo for Maximum Flavor

When making this Chicken, Chorizo, and Mushroom Paella, the choice of chorizo can make a significant difference in the overall flavor of the dish. For the best results, always opt for authentic Spanish chorizo, like our Artisan Spanish Chorizo. This not only adds the characteristic smoky flavor but also infuses the paella with rich, savory notes that are essential to its authentic taste.

Optional Cooking Technique: Sauté the Chorizo First

To enhance the depth of flavor in your paella, start by sautéing the sliced Spanish chorizo in olive oil for a few minutes before adding the onions and bell peppers. This step will render out some of the fat and allow the chorizo to caramelize slightly, creating a flavorful base for the dish. The rendered fat from the chorizo will not only add richness but also impart a beautiful color and aroma to the vegetables and rice, elevating your paella to a whole new level of deliciousness. This technique helps to ensure that every bite is infused with the delightful essence of chorizo, making your paella truly unforgettable.