Spanish-Style Chicken and Chorizo Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a satisfying dinner. Loaded with bold spices, chorizo, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, this stew is inspired by Spanish cuisine. It’s a one-pot recipe that’s easy to make and packed with smoky, savory goodness.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 ounces chorizo, sliced
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
1 (14-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Add the chorizo to the same pot and cook until it releases its oil and begins to crisp. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in smoked paprika, sweet paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and white wine (if using). Stir well.
Return the chicken and chorizo to the pot. Add chickpeas, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the chicken is tender and flavors meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrients

Calories: ~350 per serving
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 20 g
Sodium: 820 mg
Fiber: 5 g
Vitamin A: 45% of daily value
Iron: 15% of daily value

The Appeal of Spanish Cuisine

Spanish cuisine is celebrated for its robust flavors and emphasis on fresh, wholesome ingredients. At its core, Spanish food often blends earthy spices with the natural sweetness of vegetables and the rich, savory qualities of meats. The use of chorizo in this recipe, for example, introduces a deep smokiness that complements the mild, tender chicken. This stew encapsulates the heart of Spanish cooking: bold, flavorful dishes that are designed to be shared with loved ones.

Additionally, Spanish dishes like this one often showcase an artful balance of simplicity and complexity. While the ingredients are easy to source and prepare, the interplay of textures and flavors elevates this stew into something extraordinary.

What Makes This Dish Stand Out

One of the standout features of Spanish-Style Chicken and Chorizo Stew is its ability to combine familiar ingredients in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The smoky paprika, sweet bell peppers, and rich tomatoes create a sauce that envelops the chicken and chorizo beautifully. The addition of chickpeas not only adds texture and protein but also makes this dish incredibly filling and nourishing.

The use of spices such as smoked paprika and thyme is another highlight. Smoked paprika brings an unmistakable depth and warmth, while thyme adds a delicate herbal note that ties all the flavors together. Combined with the optional cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, the seasoning in this stew is what truly sets it apart.

The Versatility of the Recipe

Another reason to love Spanish-Style Chicken and Chorizo Stew is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re catering to a family dinner, hosting a casual gathering, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is adaptable to a variety of needs. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even roasted potatoes, making it suitable for different preferences and dietary requirements.

You can also customize the recipe based on what you have on hand. If chorizo is unavailable, other smoked sausages can be used. Vegetarians can adapt the dish by substituting the chicken and chorizo with hearty vegetables like zucchini or eggplant and incorporating more chickpeas for protein. The flexibility of this stew makes it a favorite for home cooks looking for a reliable, go-to meal.

The Health Benefits of This Dish

While indulgent and satisfying, Spanish-Style Chicken and Chorizo Stew is also packed with nutrients. Chicken provides a lean source of protein, while chorizo adds healthy fats and essential minerals. Bell peppers, tomatoes, and chickpeas contribute vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish a well-rounded option for a balanced diet.

The inclusion of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper also adds anti-inflammatory properties, while the chickpeas contribute a significant dose of dietary fiber to aid digestion. Despite being rich in flavor, this stew manages to deliver a variety of health benefits, making it an excellent option for a wholesome yet delicious meal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

What makes this dish particularly appealing is its ability to fit into any occasion. For weeknight dinners, the one-pot nature of the recipe makes cleanup simple and stress-free. On the other hand, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma of the stew make it a showstopper for gatherings or potlucks. Its ability to be reheated without losing flavor also makes it ideal for meal prep, ensuring that you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal multiple times throughout the week.

For wine lovers, this dish pairs wonderfully with Spanish wines such as Tempranillo or Garnacha. The rich, smoky notes of the stew complement the bold flavors of these wines, creating a dining experience that feels both elevated and comforting.

Cultural Connection

Spanish-Style Chicken and Chorizo Stew is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of Spanish culinary traditions. The use of chorizo, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs speaks to the cultural heritage of Spain, where food is often a communal experience. This stew captures the essence of Spanish cooking, which places emphasis on high-quality ingredients and bold, unapologetic flavors.

In Spain, stews like this one are often enjoyed as part of long, leisurely meals with family and friends. The communal aspect of cooking and eating is a core element of Spanish culture, and this recipe brings that same spirit to your kitchen.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

Use Fresh Ingredients: While canned tomatoes and chickpeas are convenient, using fresh produce whenever possible can elevate the flavor of this dish.
Don’t Rush the Browning Process: Allowing the chicken and chorizo to brown properly ensures that the dish develops a deep, rich flavor.
Layer the Flavors: Take your time to sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers to extract their natural sweetness before adding the liquid ingredients.
Adjust the Spice Level: The cayenne pepper is optional, so feel free to omit it or adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Make It Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Conclusion

Spanish-Style Chicken and Chorizo Stew is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of Spanish flavors in one hearty dish. It’s a recipe that offers the perfect combination of simplicity, versatility, and richness, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions. Packed with bold spices, tender chicken, and the smokiness of chorizo, this stew is a delightful way to warm up on a cold evening or enjoy a satisfying meal with loved ones.

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