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Chicken and Yellow Rice

A cozy, one-pan dinner that combines juicy chicken and fluffy yellow rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs or breasts, boneless or bone-in Bone-in thighs are juicier.
  • 1 teaspoon salt For seasoning the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper For seasoning the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika For seasoning the chicken.

For the Rice

  • 1.5 cups long grain white rice Can substitute with Basmati or Jasmine. Rinse before use.
  • 3 cups chicken broth Always use broth instead of water for flavor.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped Adds flavor to the base.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the base.
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric For color and earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika For flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon cumin Optional, for extra depth.
  • 1 bay leaf optional For flavor.
  • 1 lemon squeezed, for finishing Brightens the dish.

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 cup peas For color.
  • 1 cup sliced roasted red peppers For presentation.
  • 1 pinch chili flakes For heat.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • In a pan, sear the chicken until it gets some color, then set aside.
  • In the same pan, toast the rice with onions and garlic until fragrant.

Cooking

  • Add turmeric, paprika, cumin, and the chicken broth to the rice.
  • Nestle the chicken back into the pan and add the bay leaf.
  • Cover and let simmer on low heat until the rice is cooked, about 20-25 minutes.
  • Once done, let sit covered for 5-10 minutes, then squeeze lemon over before serving.

Notes

For best results, use a deep skillet or Dutch oven with a lid. Avoid stirring after adding broth to prevent sticky rice. Leftovers can be stored for 3-4 days and reheated with a splash of broth.
Keyword Casserole, Chicken and Rice, Easy Recipe, One-Pan Dinner, Weeknight Meal