One-Pan Spanish Rice with Juicy Lamb Chops

One-Pan Spanish Rice with Juicy Lamb Chops is a rustic and deeply flavorful dish that brings together perfectly seared lamb chops and aromatic rice infused with tomatoes, garlic, and warm spices. Cooked in a single skillet, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pan meal combines tender, seasoned lamb chops with vibrant Spanish-style rice for a complete and balanced dish. The rice absorbs the flavors of the meat and spices as it cooks, resulting in a rich, cohesive flavor profile. It’s minimal in cleanup, robust in taste, and elegant enough to serve to guests without complicated steps or ingredients.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the lamb chops:

• Bone-in lamb chops
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Ground cumin
• Salt and pepper

For the Spanish rice:

• Long grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato paste or crushed tomatoes
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Smoked paprika
• Ground cumin
• Turmeric (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

directions

1. Pat the lamb chops dry and season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear lamb chops for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
4. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
5. Add the rice and stir to coat with the tomato-spice mixture.
6. Pour in the broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
7. Nestle the lamb chops back into the pan over the rice.
8. Cover and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
9. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

• Use boneless lamb loin or shoulder chops for easier eating
• Add green peas, red bell peppers, or olives to the rice for added texture and flavor
• Swap lamb for chicken thighs or bone-in drumsticks if preferred
• Replace tomato paste with crushed fire-roasted tomatoes for a smokier base
• Use vegetable broth to keep the dish lighter or more plant-forward

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight and reheat gently to preserve the rice texture and keep the lamb tender.

FAQs

Can I use boneless lamb chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless lamb works well and may cook slightly faster. Just adjust the searing and cooking time accordingly.

Can I substitute the rice with brown rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Extend cooking by 10–15 minutes and monitor for doneness.

What makes this rice ‘Spanish-style’?
The use of smoked paprika, tomato, garlic, and a bold seasoning profile gives the rice its characteristic Spanish flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chopped chili to the spice mix for extra heat.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can cook and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a bit of extra broth before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.

Can I use a different meat entirely?
Absolutely. Chicken, beef, or even bone-in pork chops can be substituted with great results.

What is the best pan to use?
A deep, heavy-bottomed skillet with a lid or a Dutch oven works best for even cooking and moisture retention.

How do I avoid mushy rice?
Measure your liquid carefully and avoid stirring the rice too much once it’s simmering.

What side dishes go well with this?
A simple cucumber salad, roasted vegetables, or a dollop of yogurt work wonderfully as cooling accompaniments.

Conclusion

One-Pan Spanish Rice with Juicy Lamb Chops is a rich, well-rounded meal full of warm spices and bold Mediterranean flavor. With everything cooked in one pan, this dish is both practical and indulgent, ideal for nights when you want something hearty without the mess. Serve it straight from the skillet and enjoy the rustic elegance of this satisfying dish.

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