Name: One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces; 1.5 cups basmati or long-grain rice, rinsed; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 1.5 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp cumin powder; 1 tsp paprika or mild chili powder; 2 cups chicken broth or water; 3 tbsp cooking oil or ghee; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish; Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or chopped vegetables

A wholesome, flavorful dish where tender chicken and fragrant turmeric rice cook together in one pot for minimal fuss and maximum taste.

Origin One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice

This dish draws inspiration from various South Asian and Middle Eastern one-pot meals, where rice and meat simmer together with vibrant spices to create a cozy, all-in-one comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s easy to prepare, uses just one pot (less cleanup!), and combines bright turmeric flavor with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. Plus, it’s adaptable — great for busy nights or meal prep!

One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice

Recipe by RecipeWikki

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

Ingredients

1.5 lbs (700g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
1.5 cups basmati or long-grain rice, rinsed
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
1.5 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp paprika or mild chili powder
2 cups chicken broth or water
3 tbsp cooking oil or ghee
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or chopped vegetables

Directions

Sauté aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent. Add garlic and ginger, cooking 1 minute until fragrant.
Add spices: Stir in turmeric, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to toast spices.
Cook chicken: Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
Add rice and liquid: Stir in rinsed rice and coat with the spices and chicken. Pour in chicken broth or water. Add peas or veggies if using. Bring to a boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
Rest and fluff: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Notes

Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh zing.

Spiced Rice