Chicken and Smoked Sausage Paella

Ingredients

• 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups dry smoked sausage, sliced about 1/2-inch diagonallly (can use more)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh garlic, chopped (or to taste)
• 1-2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups rice (use short grain rice for this)
• 1 pinch saffron
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 6 cups cooked chicken, cut into chunks (i just use the meat from one whole cooked chicken)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 ripe plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped
• salt and pepper

Directions

1. 1

   Set oven to 400 degrees.

2. 2

   Heat oil in a large paella pan or oven-proof casserole dish (don't worry about a lid!).

3. 3

   Add in sliced smoked sausage and cook stirring until browned (about 2 minutes).

4. 4

   Add in onion, garlic, red bell pepper, paprika, saffron and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) cook, stirring for about 3-4 minutes, or until veggies are tender.

5. 5

   Add in rice, saffron and bay leaves; stir to combine to coat the rice.

6. 6

   Add in the stock; bring to a boil, then add in the cooked chicken, frozen peas and chopped tomato; stir to combine, then season with salt and black pepper.

7. 7

   Transfer the pot or casserole dish to the oven.

8. 8

   Cook uncovered until the rice is tender and no liquid remains (about 20-25 minutes).

9. 9

   Remove from the oven and fluff with a fork.

10. 10

    Serve right away.