Description
This Chicken and Yellow Rice recipe delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Tender chicken is cooked with fragrant spices and combined with fluffy, saffron-infused yellow rice. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with various additions and garnishes to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
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For the Chicken:
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1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon cumin
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1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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For the Yellow Rice:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 1/2 cups long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
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2 cups chicken broth
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1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
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1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
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Instructions
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Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Toast the Rice: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet and add rice. Cook for about 2 minutes.
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Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth, add turmeric, saffron, and salt. Stir to combine.
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Combine and Simmer: Return the seared chicken to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
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Rest and Fluff: Remove the skillet from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired).
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Serve: Serve hot, and enjoy.
Notes
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For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
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You can substitute chicken breast for thighs, but thighs tend to be more juicy.
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For best results, use a good quality chicken broth to enhance the flavor of the rice.
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Adjust the amount of saffron to your preference; more saffron will give a richer color and flavor.
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You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas to this dish during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Global Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken and yellow rice, chicken rice, saffron rice, easy dinner, one-pan meal, global cuisine