Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsRiviera MayaMexican Paella Recipe

Mexican Paella Recipe

Inspired by Riviera Maya
Time1h
Serves6

Clams, mussels, calamari, scallops, red snapper, shrimp, chicken & chorizo. Cooked with a special rice

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Ingredients

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Seafood

Meat

Rice & Broth

Vegetables & Aromatics

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Prep the Ingredients

    Clean and devein the shrimp, clams, and mussels. Slice the calamari into rings. Cut the red snapper into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Dice the chicken thighs into small cubes and slice the chorizo.

Cooking

  1. 2

    Cook the Chicken and Chorizo

    In a large paella pan or a wide skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken thighs and sliced chorizo. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. 3

    Add Aromatics

    Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the pan. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. 4

    Add Rice and Broth

    Stir in the basmati rice and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring to coat the rice in the oil. Add the chicken broth, saffron threads, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.

  4. 5

    Incorporate Seafood

    Once simmering, add the clams, mussels, scallops, shrimp, calamari, and red snapper to the pan. Gently stir to distribute the seafood evenly.

  5. 6

    Cook the Paella

    Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil. Allow the paella to cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth. Do not stir during this time.

  6. 7

    Finish with Peas

    After 20-25 minutes, remove the lid and sprinkle the green peas over the top. Cover again and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes off the heat.

  7. 8

    Serve

    Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the paella directly from the pan family-style. Enjoy!

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