Are you looking for a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed hills and bustling streets of Spain? Look no further! Chicken is a staple protein in Spanish cuisine, and when combined with bold flavors like garlic, paprika, and saffron, it becomes a dish truly fit for a king (or queen). In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering Spanish chicken recipes that will delight your senses and leave you wanting more.
From classic paella dishes to innovative skewers and casseroles, these recipes showcase the rich flavors and techniques of Spanish cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of deliciously spiced and flavorful Spanish chicken recipes.
Spanish Garlic Chicken with Paprika
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this simple yet flavorful dish. Sizzling chicken breasts are smothered in a rich garlic and paprika sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the chicken with the paprika mixture and pour in the chicken broth.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Chicken and Chorizo Paella
A classic Spanish dish, paella is a flavorful rice-based meal that combines chicken, chorizo sausage, and aromatic spices. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 oz Spanish chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked Arborio rice (or paella rice)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, tomatoes, artichoke hearts)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp saffron threads
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add chorizo sausage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add rice to the pan, stirring to coat with oil and mix with other ingredients.
6. Add chicken broth, saffron threads, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spanish Lemon and Herb Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this bright and citrusy Spanish-inspired recipe. Aromatic herbs and the perfect balance of lemon zest and juice make for a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste with lemon juice every 20 minutes during cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Spanish Chicken and Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this hearty one-pot dish that combines juicy chicken, savory rice, and a hint of spice. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add rice, broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
4. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spanish Chicken with Saffron and Olives
This classic Spanish dish combines the bold flavors of chicken, saffron, and olives for a truly authentic culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, saffron mixture, and olives. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Slow-Cooked Spanish Chicken Stew
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this comforting slow-cooked stew, perfect for a chilly evening. Tender chicken and vegetables simmer in a flavorful broth infused with saffron, garlic, and smoky paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the slow cooker, combine onions, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, saffron, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked chicken to the slow cooker, stirring to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spanish Chicken with Almond Sauce
Spanish Chicken with Almond Sauce Recipe
This flavorful dish combines the richness of chicken with the nutty taste of almonds, creating a satisfying and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, saffron, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toast the almonds in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted almonds, parsley, and chicken broth to form the almond sauce.
8. Serve the baked chicken with the almond sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Spanish Chicken Skewers
Savor the flavors of Spain with these colorful and aromatic grilled chicken skewers, infused with smoky paprika and zesty lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanish Chicken and Potato Bake
This hearty dish combines the flavors of Spain with the comfort of a homey casserole. With chicken, potatoes, and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together tomato sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken and potato mixture; stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with chopped parsley.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spanish Chicken with Sherry Vinegar Glaze
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this simple yet impressive dish. Marinated chicken breasts are smothered in a rich and tangy sherry vinegar glaze, perfect for special occasions or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup sherry vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, paprika, and oregano.
3. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While chicken is cooking, whisk together sherry vinegar and honey in a small bowl.
7. Brush the glaze over chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Chicken with Piquillo Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this simple and delicious recipe that combines juicy chicken, sweet piquillo peppers, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large piquillo peppers, roasted and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the chopped piquillo peppers, smoked paprika, and cumin to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth and browned chicken back into the skillet. Simmer until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Chicken and Chickpea Casserole
This casserole combines the warmth of chicken, chickpeas, and Spanish spices for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp saffron threads
– 1/4 tsp cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper over medium-high heat until the chicken is browned.
3. Add smoked paprika, saffron, cumin, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chickpeas and cooked rice.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Chicken with Manchego Cheese
This classic Spanish-inspired dish combines the flavors of juicy chicken, rich Manchego cheese, and aromatic spices for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Manchego cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, garlic, and smoked paprika. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Manchego cheese.
5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Chicken and Mushroom Tapas
Get ready for a flavorful and aromatic tapas experience! This recipe combines succulent chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crispy potatoes with a hint of smoky paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 large potato, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken, mushrooms, and potatoes with olive oil, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6 tapas
Enjoy your delicious Spanish Chicken and Mushroom Tapas!
Spanish Chicken with Smoked Paprika Aioli
Elevate your chicken dish with the bold flavors of Spain! This recipe combines juicy chicken with a rich and creamy smoked paprika aioli, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine heavy cream, lemon juice, and parsley in a bowl to make the aioli.
6. Serve the chicken with the smoked paprika aioli spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Chicken and Vegetable Fricassee
Savor the flavors of Spain with this hearty and aromatic fricassee dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory spices in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium-sized bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and chopped onion to the pot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spanish Chicken Empanadas
These empanadas are a delicious twist on traditional Spanish cuisine, filled with juicy chicken, savory spices, and crispy pastry. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to desired thickness.
5. Spoon chicken mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Fold other half over filling; press edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Chicken with Romesco Sauce
This classic Spanish dish combines succulent chicken with a rich, smoky romesco sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup romesco sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and brush with romesco sauce.
4. Sprinkle smoked paprika over the top and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Savor the bold flavors of Spain with these 18 mouthwatering chicken recipes! From classic dishes like Spanish Garlic Chicken with Paprika and One-Pot Spanish Chicken and Rice, to innovative twists like Slow-Cooked Spanish Chicken Stew and Grilled Spanish Chicken Skewers, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover the rich aromas of saffron and olives, the zesty zip of sherry vinegar glaze, and the creamy indulgence of almond sauce. These recipes are sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed hills of Spain!