Easy Skillet Paella
A vibrant and flavorful skillet paella featuring shrimp, sausage, chicken, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a hearty and colorful meal inspired by Spanish cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large, deep skillet, cook sausage and chicken in their fat over high heat for about 10 minutes, adding oil if necessary.
- Remove the cooked sausage and chicken to a bowl and set aside.
- In the drippings remaining in the skillet, add chopped onion, red bell pepper, turmeric, and red cayenne pepper; cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, try using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. If you don't have orzo, you can substitute it with rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables can deepen the flavor. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced chorizo along with the sausage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Easy Skillet Paella with a side of Micro Green Beans for a delightful crunch. A simple green salad or crusty bread also pairs well. For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley to brighten the dish. This meal is perfect for gatherings and can showcase your culinary skills.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the paella to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out, and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Skillet Paella contains roughly 299 calories, with 27g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value) and protein (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1980mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this paella in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the paella ahead of time. Cook it fully and then store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little broth to keep it moist. This is a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What can I use instead of shrimp?
If you prefer not to use shrimp, you can substitute it with diced chicken or even vegetables like artichokes and bell peppers for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked through.
Is it necessary to use saffron in paella?
While saffron is traditional in classic paella recipes, it's not essential for this easy version. Turmeric provides a similar color and a hint of flavor. If you want the authentic taste, feel free to add a pinch of saffron for a special touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).