Savory Microwave Chicken and Sausage Paella
Delight in the rich flavors of this Savory Microwave Chicken and Sausage Paella, a dish that combines hearty ingredients into a one-pot wonder. Over the years, I’ve perfected this recipe to become a family favorite, especially for my husband. Despite being cooked in the microwave, its aromatic blend of spices, tender meat, and vibrant vegetables will leave your guests astonished. This simplified version of a traditional paella is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering. Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh green onions for an extra burst of flavor!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Hot Italian sausage
1/2 lb (cut into 1/2 inch cubes)
Onion
1 (chopped)
Green bell pepper
1 (chopped)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Long-grain rice
1 cup
Canned tomatoes
14 ounces (chopped)
Chicken stock
1 cup
Ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Boneless skinless chicken breast
1 lb (cut into 1 inch cubes)
Salt and pepper
to taste
Green onion
1 (chopped diagonally for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a 12-cup microwave-safe dish, combine the hot Italian sausage, chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Microwave uncovered on high for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are soft.
2
Stir in the long-grain rice, canned tomatoes (with their juices), chicken stock, ground turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cover the dish and microwave on high for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches a boil. Stir again and cover, then reduce the power to medium and microwave for an additional 5 minutes.
3
Add the cubed chicken to the dish. Season generously with salt and pepper, and stir to combine well. Cover the dish again and microwave on medium for 7 to 9 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside, and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
4
Allow the dish to stand covered for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5
Before serving, fluff the paella with a fork and top it with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Enjoy your delightful paella!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Microwave Chicken and Sausage Paella?
It is a simplified version of a traditional paella dish that is prepared entirely in the microwave as a one-pot meal.
What type of sausage is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 lb of hot Italian sausage.
How should the hot Italian sausage be prepared?
The sausage should be cut into 1/2 inch cubes before cooking.
What vegetables are needed for the base of the paella?
You will need one chopped onion and one chopped green bell pepper.
How much garlic is required?
Two garlic cloves, minced, are required for this recipe.
What size microwave-safe dish should I use?
A 12-cup microwave-safe dish is recommended for cooking the paella.
How long do the vegetables and sausage cook initially?
They should be microwaved uncovered on high for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring halfway through.
What kind of rice is used in this paella?
The recipe uses 1 cup of long-grain rice.
Do I need to drain the canned tomatoes?
No, you should use the 14-ounce can of chopped tomatoes along with their juices.
What liquid is used to cook the rice?
One cup of chicken stock is used to provide moisture and flavor for the rice.
What spice gives the paella its yellow color?
1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric is used to give the dish its characteristic color.
How much cayenne pepper is included?
The recipe includes 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
How long does the rice mixture take to reach a boil?
Microwave the covered rice mixture on high for 8 to 10 minutes until it boils.
What should I do after the rice mixture boils?
Stir the mixture, cover it again, and microwave on medium power for an additional 5 minutes.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
1 lb of boneless skinless chicken breast is recommended.
How should the chicken breast be cut?
The chicken should be cut into 1 inch cubes.
When do I add the salt and pepper?
Add the salt and pepper when you add the cubed chicken to the dish.
How long is the final cooking stage for the chicken?
Microwave on medium for 7 to 9 minutes after adding the chicken.
How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is done when it is no longer pink inside and most of the liquid in the dish has been absorbed.
Is it necessary to let the dish stand after cooking?
Yes, allow the dish to stand covered for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
What is the final step before serving?
Fluff the paella with a fork and top it with chopped green onions.
How should the green onions be prepared?
One green onion should be chopped diagonally for use as a garnish.
Is this recipe suitable for a busy weeknight?
Yes, it is a simplified version of paella designed to be quick and easy for weeknight dinners.
Is the dish covered or uncovered during the first step?
The first step involving sausage and vegetables is done uncovered.
Does this recipe require stirring?
Yes, stirring is required multiple times to ensure even cooking and mixing of ingredients.
Can I serve this to guests?
The recipe description notes that guests will be astonished by the aromatic blend of spices despite it being a microwave dish.
What is the total estimated microwave time?
The total microwave time ranges from approximately 24 to 30 minutes depending on your microwave's power.
What is the description of the final dish?
It is described as a hearty, one-pot wonder with tender meat and vibrant vegetables.
What if the liquid is not absorbed after the final microwave step?
The 5-minute standing time usually allows the remaining liquid to be absorbed by the rice.
Is this a traditional Spanish paella?
No, it is a simplified, microwave-friendly version of a traditional paella recipe.