Paella-Inspired Party Packs

Bring the vibrant taste of Spain to your backyard with these Paella-Inspired Party Packs. Designed for easy grilling or baking, this crowd-pleasing meal-in-a-foil-packet combines seasoned chicken, colorful vegetables, saffron-scented rice, and zesty flavors. It’s the perfect dish for parties, family dinners, or weekend cookouts—no paella pan required!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Packet Wonder – No pots or pans needed; everything cooks together in foil.
Inspired by Classic Paella – Bold spices, juicy meat, and flavorful rice in every bite.
Flexible Cooking – Perfect for the grill, oven, or even a campfire.
Prep Ahead – Assemble the packs in advance for easy entertaining.
Naturally Gluten-Free – No substitutions needed to accommodate dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Packets:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice (rinsed)
• 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup zucchini, chopped
• ½ red onion, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp saffron threads (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ lb cooked shrimp or mussels (stir in after cooking)
• Sliced olives or artichoke hearts

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
• Grill or oven
• Baking sheet (if baking)
• Tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, paprika, turmeric, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Set aside to marinate while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Rinse the Rice
3. Rinse the rice under cool water until it runs mostly clear.
4. This prevents sticky or mushy rice and ensures fluffier grains.

Step 3: Prepare the Foil Sheets
5. Cut 4 large sheets of heavy-duty foil (about 12×16 inches each).
6. Lightly coat with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Packets
7. In each foil sheet, layer the following:

• ⅓ cup uncooked rice
• ¼ of the chopped vegetables and peas
• ¼ of the marinated chicken
• A spoonful of diced tomatoes

Step 5: Add Liquid and Seasonings
8. In a small bowl, mix chicken broth with saffron (if using) and lemon juice.
9. Pour about ½ to ⅔ cup of the seasoned broth into each foil packet, covering the ingredients.

Step 6: Seal the Packets
10. Fold the long sides of each foil sheet over the mixture and roll down.
11. Fold and crimp the short ends to create a fully sealed packet—make sure no steam can escape.

Step 7: Cook the Packets
Grill Method:
12. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
13. Grill packets for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Oven Method:
14. Preheat oven to 400°F.
15. Place foil packs on a baking sheet and bake for 30–35 minutes.
16. Carefully open one to check if the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F).

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
17. Let packets rest for 5 minutes before opening to finish steaming.
18. Carefully open each packet and garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
19. If adding cooked shrimp or mussels, stir them in now and let sit for 2–3 minutes to warm through.
20. Serve hot, straight from the foil or over a plate with extra lemon wedges.

Tips for Perfect Party Packs
Use Heavy-Duty Foil – Prevents tearing and holds up better on the grill.
Don’t Skip Rinsing Rice – Ensures fluffy texture and even cooking.
Tightly Seal the Packets – Locks in moisture and steam for tender results.
Marinate for Flavor – Let the chicken sit in seasoning for at least 15 minutes.
Add Cooked Seafood Last – Keeps it juicy and prevents overcooking.

Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices.
Grilled Veggie Skewers – Adds more color and char to your plate.
Simple Green Salad – A refreshing side to balance the richness.
Citrus-Infused Water – Keeps things light and hydrating at the party.
Chimichurri Sauce – Drizzle for a zesty herbaceous finish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers from foil to an airtight container and store up to 3 days.
Freeze: Let the contents cool completely and freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating:
Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Oven: Bake in a covered dish at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
   Not recommended for this recipe—it may overcook and turn mushy.
2. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes! Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.
3. What can I use instead of saffron?
   Turmeric provides color and some earthy flavor; it works great as a substitute.
4. Can I prep these packets ahead of time?
   Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance.
5. Can I cook these over a campfire?
   Yes! Place the foil packs on a grate over hot coals and cook for 20–25 minutes, rotating for even cooking.

Final Thoughts
These Paella-Inspired Party Packs are a fun, delicious way to serve bold Spanish flavors with ease. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or prepping meals for the week, these all-in-one foil packets offer convenience without compromising flavor. Packed with protein, veggies, and vibrant spices, it’s a festive dish everyone will love.

Give them a try at your next gathering and let the foil-pack fiesta begin!

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

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 400 | Protein: 27g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 600mg

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