Hearty Spanish Paella: A Rich and Flavorful Seafood and Chicken Delight

Paella is a traditional Spanish rice dish that is bursting with flavor and variety. It's typically made with a combination of seafood, chicken, vegetables, and aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for gatherings and sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.

Ingredients:- 1/4 cup olive oil- 2 chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined- 1/2 pound mussels, cleaned- 1/2 pound clams, cleaned- 1 red bell pepper, sliced- 1 green bell pepper, sliced- 1 onion, finely chopped- 4 garlic cloves, minced- 2 cups short-grain rice (e.g., Arborio or bomba rice)- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika- 4 cups chicken broth- 1 cup crushed tomatoes- 1 cup frozen peas- 1 lemon, cut into wedges- Salt and pepper to taste- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. **Heat the Olive Oil**: In a large paella pan or wide, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. **Cook the Chicken**: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the pan and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. **Sauté Vegetables**: Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and garlic to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are softened.

4. **Add the Rice and Spices**: Stir in the short-grain rice, saffron threads, and smoked paprika, coating the rice well with the oil and spices.

5. **Combine Broth and Tomatoes**: Pour the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes into the pan. Stir well to combine.

6. **Return the Chicken and Simmer**: Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. **Add Seafood**: Arrange the shrimp, mussels, and clams over the top of the rice mixture. Cook until the seafood is done (shrimp turned pink and opaque, mussels and clams opened), about 5-7 minutes.

8. **Add Peas**: Sprinkle the frozen peas over the dish and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

9. **Finish and Serve**: Remove the pan from the heat and let the paella sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve warm.

This hearty Spanish Paella is a feast for the senses, featuring a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Enjoy this classic dish with friends and family for a truly memorable meal.