This Golden Turmeric Chicken and Rice is a warm, nourishing one-pan dinner made with tender chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and bold anti-inflammatory spices. Infused with turmeric, ginger, and cumin, this dish delivers deep flavor, golden color, and cozy comfort — all in under 40 minutes.
Contents
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone craving a flavor-packed chicken and rice recipe with turmeric, this dish is simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile.
Why You’ll Love This Turmeric Chicken Recipe
- One-pan turmeric chicken and rice
- Bold, aromatic spices with cozy comfort vibes
- Naturally gluten-free and easy to customize
- Balanced, filling, and meal-prep friendly
- Ready in just 35 minutes
Ingredients for Golden Turmeric Chicken and Rice
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
- 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1½ teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup coconut milk or plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Golden Turmeric Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir for 20 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Add chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes, until lightly golden on all sides.
- Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it well with the spiced oil.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.
- Cook for 15–18 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in coconut milk or yogurt (if using) and lemon juice. Cook 1–2 minutes more.
- Remove from heat, fluff gently, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.
What to Serve with Turmeric Chicken and Rice
This spiced chicken rice dish pairs beautifully with:
- Simple cucumber or tomato salad
- Steamed greens or roasted vegetables
- Yogurt sauce or tzatziki
- Flatbread or naan
Tips for the Best Turmeric Chicken Rice
- Always add black pepper — it enhances turmeric flavor
- Chicken thighs give extra juiciness, breasts stay lean
- Coconut milk adds richness; yogurt keeps it lighter
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat: Gently with a splash of broth
- Freezing: Yes — freeze up to 2 months
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: ~430 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Global / Middle Eastern–Inspired
