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ONE PAN SPANISH CHICKEN AND RICE centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Joe Rooney

One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice Easy Weeknight Dinner

Enjoy a flavorful and fuss-free One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice that’s perfect for an easy dinner or weeknight meal. This family dinner features tender chicken combined with aromatic rice and a bold Spanish seasoning, all cooked in a single pan for minimal cleanup and maximum taste.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 426

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts OR 6 chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • 2 ¼ cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 lemon
  • chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Method
 

  1. Combine all the spices for the Spanish seasoning mix in a small bowl, then split into two portions and set aside.
  2. Slice one half of the lemon thinly for garnish and juice the other half.
  3. Place the chicken in a bowl, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of oil, and toss well to coat.
  4. Rub half of the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken pieces.
  5. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it develops a golden brown crust; then remove it from the pan and set aside.
  7. To the skillet, add the rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and the remaining seasoning; stir everything together.
  8. Nestle the chicken pieces back into the pan on top of the rice.
  9. Cover the pan and let cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender, the liquid absorbed, and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
  10. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley and garnish with lemon slices before serving immediately.

Notes

  • Coriander can be found in the spice aisle of most grocery stores. If you don’t have coriander, cumin can be used instead as a substitute. For a more vibrant flavor, use fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish.