Pantry Shelf Paella
A hearty paella-inspired dish featuring chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, and rice, seasoned with tomato and spices. Perfect for a flavorful, filling meal using pantry staples.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chicken in butter or oil in a large pot or skillet.
- Cook the chicken until almost done, then remove it from the pan and set aside.
- Add chopped onion and rice to the pan and cook for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Combine tomato paste and water, then add the mixture to the rice along with shrimp, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Stir in garbanzo beans and their liquid, and add peas if desired.
- Return the chicken to the pan.
- Cover and simmer for 25 minutes until the rice is cooked and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker cooking time, consider using pre-cooked or canned chicken. You can also substitute the shrimp with other proteins such as chicken or even canned tuna, keeping in mind the cooking times. To enhance the flavor, add a squeeze of lemon just before serving, which pairs beautifully with Lemon Dilled Chicken. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace chicken with artichokes from Artichokes By Chef Tell.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the paella hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. It goes well with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For added freshness, consider pairing it with Chilled, Dilled Cucumber Soup as a starter. This dish is versatile, allowing for various sides based on your preferences.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a little water, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pantry Shelf Paella contains roughly 694 calories, with 22g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (112% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 748mg per serving (33% 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 rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of rice such as jasmine or basmati, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as different rice varieties absorb water at different rates. Be sure to check the package instructions for the best results.
Is it possible to make this paella ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the paella a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat it gently on the stove with a little added water to prevent it from drying out. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.
Can I add other vegetables to the paella?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichokes for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions before adding the rice for best results.
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).