Authentic Spanish paella made with chicken, shrimp, mussels, calamari, and saffron-infused rice. This traditional paella mixta is a classic Spanish dish cooked in one pan, filled with rich Mediterranean flavors, and perfect for family dinners, parties, or festive gatherings.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (Spanish EVOO preferred)
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (½ red and ½ green recommended)
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 roma tomatoes, finely diced (or 8 oz tomato sauce)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
1 pinch saffron threads*
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup white wine
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces*
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (divided)
2 cups Spanish rice*
5 cups chicken broth*
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 lb jumbo shrimp or prawns (about 12), peeled with tails on
1/2 lb mussels (about 10–12), cleaned and de-bearded
8 oz calamari rings
Lemons, sliced, for garnish

*See notes below for substitutions.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the tomatoes, bay leaf, paprika, saffron, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes. Add white wine and simmer for 10 minutes, adjusting seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Rice

Stir in the chicken pieces, 2 tablespoons of parsley, and rice. Cook for 1 minute to coat the rice with flavor.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, shaking the pan gently to distribute the rice into an even layer. Do not stir after this step—paella develops its signature crispy bottom crust (socarrat) only if left undisturbed.

Step 4: Cook the Paella Base

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered for 15–18 minutes, giving the pan a gentle shake once or twice during cooking.

Step 5: Add Seafood and Peas

Nestle shrimp, mussels, and calamari into the rice mixture. Sprinkle peas on top. Continue cooking (without stirring) for another 5 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is nearly tender. If the rice needs more time, add 1/4 cup additional broth or water.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Remove from heat and cover with foil or a lid. Place a kitchen towel over the pan and let the paella rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

Tips

Use Spanish bomba rice for the best texture, as it absorbs liquid without becoming mushy.
Never stir the rice after adding broth—this ensures a proper socarrat (crispy bottom layer).
Allow the paella to rest before serving so flavors meld and seafood finishes steaming.
Use a wide, shallow pan if you don’t have a paella pan to help the rice cook evenly.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Replace chicken with rabbit or chorizo for a different twist.
Seafood Choices: Add clams, scallops, or lobster for a luxurious version.
Rice Substitute: If bomba rice isn’t available, use arborio rice, but adjust liquid slightly.
Vegetarian Paella: Omit meat and seafood, add extra vegetables such as artichokes, zucchini, and green beans.
Broth: Use seafood stock instead of chicken broth for a deeper ocean flavor.

FAQs

Can I make paella without saffron?
Yes, substitute with turmeric or smoked paprika for color and flavor, though it won’t be as authentic.

Do I need a special paella pan?
No, but a wide, shallow skillet works best to ensure the rice cooks evenly.

What is socarrat?
Socarrat is the crispy, caramelized rice layer at the bottom of the pan. It’s considered the best part of authentic paella.

Can I prepare paella in advance?
Paella is best served fresh, but leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, bright contrast.
Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Enjoy alongside Spanish bread and aioli.
Complement with Spanish wines like Albariño or Rioja.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Spanish flavors straight from Madrid.
A festive, colorful dish perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Combines chicken, seafood, vegetables, and rice in one hearty meal.
Flexible recipe—adaptable with different proteins or vegetables.
Show-stopping presentation that impresses family and guests alike.