Pacific Paella
Pacific Paella is a vibrant seafood and chicken rice dish infused with spices and fresh flavors, perfect for gatherings and fans of bold, savory tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut chicken breast into 1/2 inch strips.
- Combine paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Add chicken to the seasonings and stir until completely coated.
- Cut Italian sausage into 1/4 inch pieces and remove casings.
- Add water to chicken broth to make 3 3/4 cups and bring to a boil in a 12-inch skillet.
- Stir in rice, onion, garlic, turmeric, chicken, sausage, and tomatoes.
- Cover tightly and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in shrimp and green pepper.
- Place mussels on top, cover, and let stand until all liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Pacific Paella, consider adding saffron for a traditional touch or substituting the shrimp with scallops for a different seafood option. If short on time, pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken can be used. Ensure your rice is fully cooked by checking the liquid level during simmering, and adjust as necessary. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pacific Paella with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices or a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast. A chilled glass of white wine pairs beautifully with this dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Mediterranean recipes like Creamy Lentil Soup or a light dessert like sorbet to cleanse the palate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pacific Paella contains roughly 509 calories, with 20g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (135% of the Daily Value), iron (98% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1804mg per serving (78% 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 use other types of seafood in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other seafood such as clams, squid, or even fish fillets. Just ensure to adjust cooking times based on the seafood used to avoid overcooking.
What can I do if I don't have chicken broth?
If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth or water can be used as alternatives. For added flavor, consider adding a bouillon cube to the water or enhancing it with herbs and spices.
Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the paella in advance. Cook it through step 7, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and stir in the shrimp and green pepper just before serving.
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).