Spanish Chicken and Chorizo Bake

Spanish Chicken and Chorizo Bake is a vibrant, rustic, and flavor-packed dish that combines tender chicken thighs, smoky chorizo, colorful vegetables, and aromatic Spanish spices. This one-pan meal is inspired by traditional Spanish flavors, reminiscent of paella but simplified into an oven-baked version.

The chorizo adds a rich smokiness and slight spice, while the chicken stays juicy and absorbs all the wonderful juices from the vegetables and seasonings.

This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a special weekend meal. The aroma of paprika, garlic, and roasted vegetables filling your kitchen is irresistible, and the bright combination of red peppers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs makes it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the essence of Spanish cuisine in a simple, easy-to-make bake. The flavors are bold and balanced—the smokiness of chorizo, the sweetness of roasted peppers, and the aromatic paprika come together beautifully.

I also love how hands-off it is; after prepping, you can bake it in the oven while the flavors meld, resulting in a juicy, hearty, and visually stunning dish.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Bold, savory, and smoky flavors that appeal to everyone.
• Simple, one-pan preparation saves time and reduces cleanup.
• Visually stunning – colorful vegetables and golden chicken.
• Versatile – can be served as a main dish with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.
• Comfort food with an exotic twist – perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45–50 minutes
• Total Time: 65–70 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: ~550 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Spanish / Mediterranean
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Bake:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 200 g (7 oz) Spanish chorizo, sliced into ½-inch pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp sweet paprika
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken broth (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

Simple Overview

1. Preheat the oven and prepare a baking dish.
2. Season chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear chicken until golden brown.
4. Sauté chorizo, onions, peppers, and garlic.
5. Combine chicken, vegetables, chorizo, and tomatoes in the baking dish.
6. Roast until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1 – Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2 – Prepare Chicken

• Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
• Season generously with smoked paprika, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3 – Sear Chicken

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear chicken thighs, skin side down first, for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 4 – Sauté Vegetables & Chorizo

• In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil if needed.
• Add chorizo slices and cook 2–3 minutes until slightly crisp.
• Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in cherry tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper.

Step 5 – Combine & Roast

• Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables and chorizo.
• Pour white wine or chicken broth over the dish if using.
• Transfer skillet to the oven (or use a baking dish) and roast for 25–30 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6 – Finish & Garnish

• Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve directly from the skillet or transfer to a serving platter.
• Accompany with crusty bread, garlic bread, or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
• A light green salad or roasted potatoes pairs beautifully.

Recipe Tips

• Searing the chicken locks in juices and gives a crisp, flavorful skin.
• Chorizo can vary in spiciness; adjust cayenne pepper accordingly.
• Use a mix of sweet and smoked paprika for a true Spanish flavor profile.
• If you don’t have an oven-proof skillet, transfer everything to a baking dish before roasting.

Variations

• Add potatoes: Cube and roast small potatoes along with vegetables.
• Seafood twist: Replace half the chicken with large shrimp for a surf-and-turf style bake.
• Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or extra cayenne.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant and zucchini, and use plant-based sausage instead of chorizo.
• Herb variations: Try fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for extra aroma.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions (without fresh parsley) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for the best texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Oven-proof skillet or baking dish
• Tongs for searing chicken
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)

FAQ

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but bone-in, skin-on thighs stay juicier and more flavorful. Chicken breasts may dry out if overcooked.

Q: Can this be made ahead of time?
You can prep the vegetables and chorizo in advance, but bake just before serving for best results.

Q: Can I use cured Spanish chorizo instead of fresh?
Yes, just reduce added salt and adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: Can this dish be cooked entirely on the stovetop?
Yes, simmer covered over low heat until chicken is cooked and vegetables are tender, though oven roasting gives better caramelization.

Q: What sides pair well?
Rice, roasted potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad complement this dish perfectly.

Conclusion

Spanish Chicken and Chorizo Bake is a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings the warmth of Spanish cuisine into your home. With juicy chicken, smoky chorizo, and colorful vegetables infused with paprika and herbs, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy weekend meal, this one-pan bake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.