Dinner

Microwave Cheat’s Paella Recipe

Name: Microwave Cheat’s Paella Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 26 min
Total time: 36 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated; 700ml chicken stock; Pinch of saffron (optional); ½ tbsp sweet smoked paprika; 300g paella rice; 200g chicken, thinly sliced; 200g chorizo, chopped; 150g frozen peas; ½ lemon, juiced, plus wedges to serve; Small handful of parsley, roughly chopped; Pinch of salt

ByJack Voss December 2, 2025December 2, 2025

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Introduction

This microwave cheat’s paella is a quick and easy way to enjoy the classic Spanish dish without the fuss. Using simple ingredients and a microwave, you can create a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.

The image shows two bowls of a creamy yellow risotto with a mix of green peas and small pieces of orange-colored seafood or chicken, garnished with bright green parsley leaves. Each bowl has a lemon wedge on top for a fresh look. The texture of the risotto looks soft and slightly chunky, with the peas adding a pop of green and the protein pieces scattered evenly. One bowl has a fork resting on the edge, partly inside the risotto. The bowls are white and are placed on a white marbled surface. Next to the upper bowl, there is a clear glass with water. The lighting is soft and natural, making the dish look warm and appetizing. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated
700ml chicken stock
Pinch of saffron (optional)
½ tbsp sweet smoked paprika
300g paella rice
200g chicken, thinly sliced
200g chorizo, chopped
150g frozen peas
½ lemon, juiced, plus wedges to serve
Small handful of parsley, roughly chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Place the olive oil, onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a large microwaveable dish. Mix well and microwave on high for 3 minutes.
Step 2: While the onion mixture cooks, combine the chicken stock and saffron in a jug. Let it infuse for a couple of minutes.
Step 3: Stir the smoked paprika, paella rice, sliced chicken, and chopped chorizo into the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the infused chicken stock and season well.
Step 4: Cover the dish and cook on high for 15 minutes. Stir, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 5: Carefully remove the cover to avoid steam. Stir in the frozen peas and add 100ml of water if the mixture seems dry. Cook uncovered for 3 more minutes.
Step 6: Drizzle the juice of half a lemon over the paella and scatter the chopped parsley on top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zing.

Tips & Variations

Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, or substitute with sweet paprika for a milder taste.
Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
If you don’t have paella rice, use another short-grain rice but adjust cooking time as needed.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water or stock to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

Two round white bowls on a white marbled surface contain a creamy orange risotto dish with green peas and small pieces of chicken scattered throughout. Each bowl has a wedge of lemon placed on the edge of the risotto, and fresh green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top. The risotto looks soft and well mixed, with small orange chunks and bright green peas adding color contrast. A silver fork is placed in the lower bowl, partially covered by the risotto. There is a clear glass of water nearby on the marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this paella without chicken?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with seafood such as shrimp or mussels for a different variation. Add seafood during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Is saffron necessary in this recipe?

Saffron adds authentic flavor and color to paella but is optional. If you don’t have saffron, you can skip it or use a pinch of turmeric for color instead.