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20-Min Saffron Chicken & Rice Skillet

Golden saffron rice with tender chicken, peppers, and a squeeze of fresh lemon. A weeknight paella that actually finishes in 20 minutes with zero fuss.

Total time
20 min
Servings
4
Calories
485
Protein
38g
20-Min Saffron Chicken & Rice Skillet
comfortsimplespanishchickentenderfluffyweeknightdinner

Ingredients

  • 1.25 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
  • ¼ tsp saffron threads
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 whole lemon

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high until it shimmers, about 90 seconds.

  2. 2

    Add chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until edges are opaque and centers cooked through, 6–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. 3

    Push chicken to the side. Add diced pepper and cook, stirring, until edges soften, 2 minutes.

  4. 4

    Stir in rice and saffron threads. Pour in broth and bring to a boil, stirring once.

  5. 5

    Lower heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until rice absorbs liquid and is tender, 10–12 minutes.

  6. 6

    Cut lemon into wedges. Serve paella hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Tools you’ll need

  • 12-inch skillet with lid
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • measuring cups and spoons

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