If you're ready for a delicious, easy meal, you’ll love this One Pot Spanish Chorizo Fried Rice! I’ll guide you through every step to create a comforting dish full of bold flavors. With just one pot, you’ll save time on clean-up, too. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of Spanish cuisine!

Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
- 200g Spanish chorizo, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Cooking Essentials
To cook this dish, you will need a large pot or a deep skillet. A wooden spoon helps mix the ingredients well. Use a measuring cup for the rice and broth. Make sure to have a sharp knife for chopping vegetables. A cutting board is essential for safety and ease. Lastly, have a fork ready to fluff the rice once it’s done.
Recommended Fresh Ingredients
I suggest using fresh herbs like parsley for garnish. Fresh lemon adds a bright touch to the dish. Choose ripe chorizo for a better taste. Use fresh onions and bell peppers for crunch and flavor. These fresh ingredients enhance the meal's overall taste and presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chorizo and Vegetables
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 200g of diced Spanish chorizo. Sauté it for 3-4 minutes until it turns crispy and brown. The oil will soak up the chorizo's flavor. After browning the chorizo, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Keep the oil in the pot for the next steps.
Now, add 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook these for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onion to become soft and clear. Next, toss in 1 diced red bell pepper and 1 diced green bell pepper. Sauté them for another 3 minutes until they soften.
Cooking the Rice Mixture
It's time to add the main ingredient: rice! Pour in 1 cup of rinsed basmati rice. Stir it around for 1-2 minutes. This helps the rice soak in all the tasty flavors. Now, add 1 can of drained diced tomatoes, 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, and 1 teaspoon each of smoked paprika and cumin. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste.
Mix everything well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once it simmers, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the broth. Check it after 15 minutes to see if it's tender.
Finishing Touches
When the rice is ready, take the pot off the heat. Gently fold in the cooked chorizo and 1 cup of frozen peas. This warms them up without overcooking. Cover the pot and let it sit for 5 minutes. This step helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Finally, fluff up the rice with a fork. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side. The lemon adds a nice zing to every bite! Enjoy your One Pot Spanish Chorizo Fried Rice.
Tips & Tricks
Best Cooking Techniques for Fluffy Rice
To get fluffy rice, rinsing your basmati rice is key. Rinsing removes extra starch. This helps the rice cook evenly. After rinsing, let the rice soak for about 15 minutes. Soaking helps it absorb water better. When you cook the rice, use the right amount of broth. Two cups of broth for one cup of rice works well. Always keep the pot covered while it cooks. This traps steam and helps the rice cook perfectly.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find Spanish chorizo, try other sausages. Smoked sausage or kielbasa can work well. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based chorizo or mushrooms. You can swap out the bell peppers too. Zucchini or carrots bring a nice taste and color. If you lack fresh parsley, try cilantro for a different flavor. You can also use lime instead of lemon for a zesty twist.
Flavor Enhancements
For added flavor, consider adding herbs and spices. Fresh thyme or oregano can bring depth. You can also sprinkle in some chili flakes for heat. If you like umami, a splash of soy sauce works wonders. For a smokier taste, add more smoked paprika. Finally, don’t forget to taste your dish before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your palate. A squeeze of lemon right before serving brightens all the flavors.
Variations
Vegetarian Adaptation
You can make this dish vegetarian by swapping out the chorizo. Use diced mushrooms or firm tofu for a hearty base. Both options add great texture. For flavor, try smoked paprika and a dash of soy sauce. The smoked paprika gives a nice depth, while soy sauce adds umami.
Adding Different Proteins
If you want to mix it up, there are many proteins to try. Shrimp or chicken work well. Just sauté them until cooked, then set aside. Add them back in during the last few minutes to warm through. For a richer taste, you might use spicy sausage or even a mix of proteins.
Spice Level Adjustments
To change the spice level, add more smoked paprika or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will give your dish a nice kick. If you prefer it milder, skip the cayenne. You can also serve hot sauce on the side for those who like extra heat. Adjusting the spice can make this dish suit any taste.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your One Pot Spanish Chorizo Fried Rice, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the rice to room temperature first. Properly stored, it will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the rice in a pot over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it's heated through. You can also use the microwave. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
Freezing Suggestions
If you want to save the dish for later, freezing is a great option. Allow the rice to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To use, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use regular rice instead of basmati?
Yes, you can use regular rice. Basmati rice adds a nice flavor and texture. If you choose regular rice, adjust the cooking time. Regular rice may need more water and a longer cook time. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, try these options:
- Add sliced jalapeños while cooking.
- Use hot smoked paprika instead of regular.
- Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Serve with hot sauce on the side.
These tweaks will give your fried rice a spicy kick!
What can I serve with One Pot Spanish Chorizo "Fried" Rice?
This dish pairs well with:
- A fresh green salad for a light touch.
- Garlic bread for a hearty side.
- Grilled vegetables to add more color.
- Lemon wedges to squeeze over the top.
These sides will enhance your meal and balance flavors!
We covered the key ingredients, methods, and tips to make One Pot Spanish Chorizo Fried Rice. You learned how to prepare chorizo and vegetables, cook rice, and add that perfect finish. The tips help you make fluffy rice and adapt flavors. For variations, you can try vegetarian options or different spices. Lastly, storing leftovers or reheating is easy.
Explore this dish; it can be your go-to meal! Enjoy cooking and experimenting!

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