There’s something truly satisfying about a meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with rich, comforting flavors. This Chicken and Yellow Rice recipe delivers just that – a simple, one-pan dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant, turmeric-infused rice. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or for when you’re looking to treat yourself and your family to something delicious without the fuss. The combination of seasoned chicken, golden rice, and aromatic spices makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, and the best part? It’s all made in one skillet, saving you time on cleanup!
If you love flavorful comfort food that’s easy to make, this chicken and yellow rice recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone coming back for more.
Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe
Cuisine: SpanishDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes40
minutes400
kcalThis simple yet flavorful Chicken and Yellow Rice recipe is an easy-to-make, one-pan meal. The golden rice, infused with turmeric or saffron, complements the juicy chicken, creating a deliciously balanced dish. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you need a satisfying dinner that’s both easy and delicious.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth (or water)
1 teaspoon ground turmeric (or saffron threads)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the Rice:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the turmeric (or saffron), rice, and bell pepper (if using), and stir to coat the rice evenly with the spices. - Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed. - Combine the Chicken and Rice:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat everything through. - Finish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve immediately.
Notes
- Rice Options: You can substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier alternative, but keep in mind that it will slightly alter the cooking time.
- Chicken Cut: Bone-in chicken thighs or chicken breasts work best, but boneless cuts can be used if preferred.
- Spices: Adjust the amount of turmeric or saffron depending on your taste preference for more or less flavor intensity.
- Vegetables: Add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots to the rice for added color and nutrition.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Yellow Rice:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the chicken pieces have enough space in the pan so they can brown evenly and not steam. This gives them a nice crispy texture that adds flavor to the dish.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. If you like things spicy, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few chopped fresh chilies to the rice. It will complement the turmeric beautifully.
- Cook with Chicken Broth: For extra flavor, cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water. This enhances the taste of the rice and adds richness to the overall dish.
- Vegetable Add-ins: This recipe is great for incorporating vegetables! Add peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the rice for a burst of color and added nutrition.
- Make It One-Pan: To minimize cleanup, cook everything in one large skillet or Dutch oven. This way, the chicken flavors meld with the rice, creating a cohesive, flavorful dish.
Recipe Variants:
- Coconut Chicken and Yellow Rice: Add coconut milk to the rice for a creamy, tropical twist. The richness of coconut complements the turmeric perfectly.
- Chicken and Yellow Rice with Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans to the rice for extra protein and texture. The beans also absorb the flavors of the spices and make the dish even heartier.
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Yellow Rice: Marinate the chicken in lemon juice and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before cooking for an added burst of freshness.
FAQ:
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. However, brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.
Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. Once cooked, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water or broth to refresh the rice.
Yes, bone-in chicken works well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Related Recipe:
If you enjoy this Chicken and Yellow Rice recipe, you might also love our Chicken Bryan Recipe. It’s another flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Nutrition Information
Chicken and Yellow Rice is a well-rounded, satisfying meal that provides essential nutrients. A typical serving contains approximately 400 calories, offering a balanced combination of lean protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice. The turmeric used in the rice not only enhances the dish’s vibrant color but also provides antioxidants, which may help in reducing inflammation. This dish also offers a good source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the turmeric and potassium from the chicken. For those looking to keep it light, you can easily reduce the calorie content by using less oil or opting for leaner cuts of chicken.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Yellow Rice
- Rich in Protein:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, tissue growth, and overall body function. It helps maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails while supporting the immune system. - Anti-inflammatory Properties:
The turmeric in the yellow rice offers anti-inflammatory benefits due to its active compound, curcumin. This can help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially aiding in joint health and promoting a healthy heart. - Good Source of Vitamins:
The yellow rice is not just visually appealing – it’s packed with beneficial nutrients. The turmeric used in the dish is rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin K, both of which support immune health, collagen production, and bone strength. - Carbohydrate Energy:
Rice is a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your day. It’s easily digestible, making it a suitable option for all ages. - Boosts Metabolism:
Chicken is a great metabolism-boosting food, thanks to its high protein content, which helps in increasing the thermic effect of food (TEF) and boosts metabolism for calorie burning.
Chicken and Yellow Rice is the perfect combination of flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking it for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its comforting, vibrant flavors. The golden turmeric rice pairs perfectly with tender, seasoned chicken, making every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish that saves you time on cleanup while still delivering a rich and satisfying meal.
This recipe is versatile enough to be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs, while still maintaining its delicious charm. Whether you make it spicier, add veggies, or cook it with coconut milk, the options are endless. Enjoy this classic comfort food, knowing that it’s both delicious and nutritious!
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