Description
This Easy Turmeric Chicken and Rice is a flavorful one-pot meal that comes together in just 30 minutes! Juicy, spiced chicken is cooked to golden perfection and paired with fragrant turmeric-infused rice for a comforting and healthy dish. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner while delivering rich, warm flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
1 (4 1/2-pound) chicken, cut into 8 pieces
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
1 small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 plum tomatoes, chopped
2 teaspoons curry powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 cups jasmine rice
3 bay leaves
1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce
3 cups chicken stock
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry and season it with turmeric, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken, skin-side down, and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove the chicken and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the Rice:
Add the rice and turmeric to the pan, stirring to coat the grains.
Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt, and bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer:
Place the seared chicken back on top of the rice.
Cover and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Rest & Serve:
Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley and lime wedges.
Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy this easy, delicious one-pot turmeric chicken and rice!
Notes
Rice Choice: Basmati or jasmine rice works best for fluffy, fragrant results. If using brown rice, increase the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Chicken Options: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks add the most flavor, but boneless chicken can also be used for a quicker cooking time.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Liquid Ratio: If the rice absorbs too much liquid, add a splash of broth or water as needed.
Serving Suggestions: Pairs well with a side of yogurt, cucumber salad, or a simple green salad.
Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion (inspired by Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian flavors)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (¼ of the recipe)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Sugar: ~1g
- Sodium: ~600mg (varies based on broth and seasoning)
- Fat: ~18g
- Saturated Fat: ~4g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~14g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Protein: ~30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: turmeric chicken, one-pot meal, easy dinner, quick dinner, chicken and rice, golden rice, healthy chicken recipe, 30-minute meal