Description
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!
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Ingredients
For the Party Packs:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into chunks)
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1½ cups long-grain rice (uncooked, rinsed)
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1 small red bell pepper, sliced
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1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced
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1 small zucchini, chopped
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1 small red onion, sliced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2½ cups chicken broth (low sodium)
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½ tsp saffron threads (optional but recommended)
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1½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp ground turmeric
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Lemon wedges, for serving
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
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½ lb cooked shrimp or mussels (add after cooking)
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½ cup frozen peas (added before sealing packets)
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Sliced olives or artichoke hearts
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
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In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp olive oil.
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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:
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⅓ cup rice (uncooked)
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¼ of the chopped veggies (bell peppers, zucchini, onion, cherry tomatoes, peas if using)
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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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Spanish-Inspired