One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice Recipe – Indian Special

This golden-hued One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice is a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that’s simple to prepare and easy to clean up. Infused with earthy turmeric, garlic, and a hint of spice, this dish delivers warmth and comfort in every bite. Perfect for a nourishing weeknight dinner or meal prep!

  • Prep Time15 min
  • Cook Time35 min
  • Total Time50 min

One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice (rinsed)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Yogurt or lemon wedges (for serving – optional)

Sear the Chicken:

1

Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a little turmeric. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken skin-side down for 3–4 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics:

2

In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add onions and sauté until soft. Stir in garlic, turmeric, cumin, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth:

3

Stir in rinsed rice and coat well with spices. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt to taste. Nestle the seared chicken on top, skin-side up.

Cook Covered:

4

Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20–25 minutes, until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

Rest and Serve:

5

Turn off the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5–10 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with herbs.

Optional Serving:

6

Serve with a dollop of yogurt or lemon wedges on the side.

Recipe Notes :

Rice Tip : Rinse rice until water runs clear to prevent clumping.

Chicken Substitute : You can use boneless thighs or drumsticks—adjust cooking time as needed.

Turmeric Boost : For even more depth, add a pinch of ground ginger or fresh grated ginger.

One-Pot Wonder : This dish is perfect for batch cooking or freezing in portions.

Veggie Add-Ins : Add frozen peas or spinach in the last 5 minutes for extra nutrition.