Air Fryer Whole30 Paleo Chicken and Vegetable Paella
A vibrant and flavorful paella made with tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and the bold flavors of smoked paprika. cooked to perfection in an air fryer.
In the bustling markets of Valencia, Spain, where the air is filled with the tantalizing aromas of saffron and paprika, paella reigns supreme. This beloved dish, with its vibrant colors and medley of flavors, has captivated palates for centuries. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Spain, we've crafted this air fryer paella that captures the essence of this classic dish while adapting it to the convenience of modern cooking. Our version features tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and the bold flavors of smoked paprika, all cooked to perfection in an air fryer, offering a quick and effortless way to enjoy the taste of Spain in your own kitchen.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
Add the chicken to the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and set aside.
Add the onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and tomatoes to the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Add the chicken back to the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until heated through.
Serve immediately.
Why It Works
Using an air fryer ensures even cooking and a crispy texture for the chicken and vegetables.
The combination of smoked paprika, salt, and pepper creates a flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with a tantalizing taste.
Sautéing the vegetables before adding the chicken allows them to soften and caramelize, adding depth to the dish.
The addition of diced tomatoes provides a tangy and juicy element that complements the other ingredients.