Paella-Inspired Party Packs

If you’re craving the bold, savory flavors of traditional paella but want something easy, shareable, and weeknight-friendly, these Paella-Inspired Party Packs are your answer. Cooked in foil for effortless cleanup and loaded with colorful veggies, juicy chicken, seasoned rice, and zesty spices, this recipe delivers all the festive vibes of a Spanish feast—no special pan or experience required!

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Packed with Flavor – Smoky paprika, garlic, saffron, and citrus bring each bite to life.
Easy Clean-Up – Foil packets make prep and cleanup a breeze.
Customizable – Add your favorite seafood or keep it simple with just chicken and veggies.
Perfect for Parties – Great for backyard BBQs, picnics, or casual gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble the packets ahead and toss them on the grill when ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Party Packs:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into chunks)
• 1½ cups long-grain rice (uncooked, rinsed)
• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small zucchini, chopped
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2½ cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• ½ tsp saffron threads (optional but recommended)
• 1½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ lb cooked shrimp or mussels (add after cooking)
• ½ cup frozen peas (added before sealing packets)
• Sliced olives or artichoke hearts

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
• Grill or oven
• Baking sheet (for oven method)
• Tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Mix well and set aside to marinate while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Rinse the Rice
3. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear.
4. This helps remove excess starch for fluffier cooked rice.

Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packs
5. Tear 4 large sheets of heavy-duty foil (about 12×16 inches each).
6. Lightly spray or brush with olive oil.
7. In the center of each foil sheet, layer:

• ⅓ cup rice (uncooked)
• ¼ of the chopped veggies (bell peppers, zucchini, onion, cherry tomatoes, peas if using)
• Marinated chicken chunks

Step 4: Add Seasoned Broth
8. In a small bowl, mix chicken broth with garlic, saffron, turmeric, remaining paprika, and lemon juice.
9. Pour about ½ to ⅔ cup of the seasoned broth into each foil packet over the chicken and rice.

Step 5: Seal the Packets
10. Fold the long edges of each foil sheet over the contents and roll them tightly.
11. Fold and crimp the short sides to seal completely—make sure no liquid can escape.

Step 6: Cook the Packets
Grill Method:
12. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
13. Place foil packs on the grill and cook for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Oven Method:
14. Preheat oven to 400°F.
15. Arrange packets on a baking sheet and bake for 30–35 minutes.
16. Carefully open one to test if the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

Step 7: Finish and Serve
17. Once cooked, let packets rest for 5 minutes before opening.
18. If using cooked seafood, add it to the open packets now and let it warm through.
19. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot!

Tips for Best Results
Use Heavy-Duty Foil – Helps prevent tearing and seals in the flavor.
Don’t Skip the Rinse – Rinsing rice ensures it doesn’t get gummy.
Even Portions – Distribute ingredients equally so they cook evenly.
Rest Before Opening – Let the packets sit for a few minutes after cooking to finish steaming.
Add Seafood Later – To avoid overcooking, stir in cooked seafood just before serving.

Serving Suggestions
Grilled Bread – A rustic slice is perfect for soaking up the juices.
Simple Green Salad – Balances the richness of the rice and chicken.
Citrus Water or Iced Tea – A refreshing drink pairs nicely with the smoky spices.
Chili Garlic Sauce – For an extra kick on the side.
Roasted Vegetables – A great way to stretch the meal for a larger crowd.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Let the cooked contents cool completely, then freeze in containers for up to 1 month.

Reheating:
Oven: Cover with foil and heat at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant rice?
   Not recommended—instant rice may become too mushy in the packets.
2. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes! Use veggie broth and skip the chicken, or substitute with chickpeas or tofu.
3. Is saffron necessary?
   It adds authentic paella flavor, but turmeric and paprika still give great color and taste if you don’t have saffron.
4. Can I prep this ahead?
   Absolutely. Assemble the foil packets up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
5. Can I cook these in the oven without foil?
   Yes—just use a baking dish covered tightly with foil to create the same steamy cooking environment.

Final Thoughts
These Paella-Inspired Party Packs are a festive and flavorful way to enjoy the essence of classic paella without the time or special tools. Whether you’re firing up the grill or baking them indoors, these colorful foil packets are a foolproof way to feed a crowd with minimal mess. Customize with your favorite add-ins and serve them with a smile—you’ve got yourself a party in a packet!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Spanish-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 390 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 560mg

Print