A Flavorful One-Pot Meal for the Whole Family

Discover a vibrant, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. This Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, fragrant saffron or turmeric-infused rice, and simple seasonings that come together in one pot. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, ready in under an hour.
• Versatile: Swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences.
• Flavorful: A vibrant mix of spices ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Yellow Rice:

• 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp saffron threads (or 1 tsp turmeric for an economical option)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, releasing its aroma.

3. Prepare the Yellow Rice

1. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the aromatic mixture.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, water, and saffron (or turmeric). Stir well.

4. Cook the Dish

1. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring it’s partially submerged in the liquid.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid.
3. Cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

5. Add Final Touches

1. If using peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Success

• Saffron Substitute: If saffron is unavailable, turmeric provides a beautiful yellow color and earthy flavor.
• Bone-In Chicken: This adds depth to the dish, but you can use boneless chicken for faster cooking.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or carrots for more texture and nutrients.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g

Variations

1. Low-Carb Version

Swap rice for cauliflower rice and reduce the broth to 1 cup. Add the cauliflower rice in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

2. Vegetarian Option

Replace chicken with chickpeas or cubed tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

3. Spicy Twist

Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the rice for extra heat.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chicken and Yellow Rice reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I serve with Chicken and Yellow Rice?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables pair perfectly with this dish.

If you love this Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe, check out this Spanish Rice with Vegetables Recipe!

Try This Easy Recipe Today!

Chicken and Yellow Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of sunshine to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe will impress with minimal effort.