One-Pan Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe
This one-pan chicken and yellow rice recipe is a perfect combination of simplicity and robust flavor. With tender, bite-sized chicken pieces, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant yellow rice seasoned to perfection, this dish is a comforting meal that fits seamlessly into busy weeknight dinners or efficient meal prep plans.
Ingredients Breakdown
This one-pan chicken and yellow rice recipe is a simple yet flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Tender, golden-browned chicken pairs seamlessly with vibrant yellow rice, sweet red bell peppers, peas, and aromatic spices like paprika and turmeric. A splash of chicken broth ties the dish together, while optional parsley garnish adds a fresh finish. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this dish is ideal as a standalone meal or paired with a crisp salad or warm bread.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Preparing the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt and black pepper to enhance its natural flavor. Cook the chicken in olive oil over medium heat, turning occasionally, until it develops a golden-brown exterior. This process ensures the chicken is both flavorful and tender, serving as the heart of the dish.
Sautéing Vegetables
Using the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened and fragrant. The caramelization of these vegetables unlocks their natural sweetness, creating a flavorful foundation for the rice and chicken.
Incorporating Rice and Spices
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the rice and peas. Sprinkle the paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper evenly over the mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the spices are distributed evenly and coat every grain of rice.
Simmering for Flavor
Pour in the chicken broth and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the ingredients to cook together for several minutes, giving the rice time to absorb the broth and the spices to meld into every bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even flavor throughout.
Recipe Tips
Choosing the Right Rice:
Opt for long-grain rice for fluffy results, or jasmine rice for a slightly floral note. If using uncooked rice, increase the broth amount and adjust the cooking time.
Enhancing the Flavor Profile:
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of zest for a bright, citrusy finish.
Controlling the Spice Level:
Reduce or omit cayenne pepper for a milder flavor or increase it for more heat.
Making It Ahead:
Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Classic Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the warm, savory flavors of the dish. Alternatively, roasted vegetables such as zucchini or carrots provide a hearty complement.
Bread Options
Serve with warm dinner rolls or a crusty baguette to soak up the flavorful broth-infused rice.
Beverage Suggestions
For a refreshing pairing, try iced tea or lemonade. If serving for dinner, a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the dish’s light yet bold flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Uncooked Rice?:
Yes, uncooked rice can be used by adding an extra 1 to 1.5 cups of broth and simmering for a longer time until the rice is tender.
What Other Vegetables Work Well?:
Zucchini, carrots, or green beans make excellent additions or substitutions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to revive the texture.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?:
Yes, freeze in individual portions for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Variations and Add-Ons
Protein Alternatives
Replace the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or a plant-based protein like tofu for a different twist.
Vegetarian Twist
Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the chicken for a hearty vegetarian version. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas for more substance.
Herbaceous Upgrade
Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, or mint into the garnish for a unique flavor dimension.
This one-pan chicken and yellow rice recipe is a versatile and time-saving dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Its vibrant colors and robust spices make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed gatherings. Experiment with variations and serve it with your favorite sides to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients
2 cups of cooked rice
1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cup frozen peas
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become soft and fragrant.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked rice and frozen peas. Sprinkle the paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper over the mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring everything together to evenly distribute the flavors.
Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally, letting the rice absorb the broth and the spices infuse every bite.
Once the rice has fully absorbed the broth, sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors in this hearty one-pan meal.
One-Pan Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked rice
- 1 lb 450 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become soft and fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked rice and frozen peas. Sprinkle the paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper over the mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring everything together to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally, letting the rice absorb the broth and the spices infuse every bite.
- Once the rice has fully absorbed the broth, sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors in this hearty one-pan meal.