In this week’s USA Weekend video, we demonstrate how to make Spanish Chicken and Rice, a dish that’s simple enough for weeknight, special enough for having people over. For those who have saffron in your pantry, you can substitute a big pinch of it for the turmeric, and if you can find chorizo (it’s worth seeking out) substitute kielbasa. Leftovers make a superb second meal–just warm them up in the microwave.



I’m always looking for new dinner ideas, particularly ones that are impressive and full of flavor, but easy to throw together. This Spanish Chicken and Rice is a lot like paella but without the seafood, which makes it a little more wallet- and kid-friendly. Best of all, this delicious one-dish dinner won’t leave you with a kitchen full of dishes!
I am a huge paella fan, so this dish–which is cheaper and quicker–is a great alternative if I’m craving it on a weeknight. I haven’t always been the biggest fan of chicken thighs, but these days I’m a total convert, and this dish is no exception. Chicken thighs are so flavorful and stay juicy and tender no matter how you cook them.
Perfect timing. I just separated and froze several packages of chicken meat and wanted something easy for tonight’s dinner. I will sub chicken breasts for the thighs but have everything else. Did I just say Perfect? One dish dinner?
I am making this tonight for dinner. We are having major thunderstomrs with tons of rain and this sounds just perfect for dinner with bread. I love your web site and am getting your new book. Can’t wait!
Very good! I’ve always enjoyed cooking but have just recently started doing it on a regular basis. It was easy, but looked and tasted like a pro made it. Thanks.
Please provide the recipe.
Thank you!
Please provide the recipe!
Thank you!
It’s on our site, Pat. Enjoy!
I used a dutch oven to make this. The rice was wet. Do I need to use a skillet?