Easy Chicken and Yellow Rice 🍗🌾

This delightful and comforting dish combines tender chicken with vibrant yellow rice, creating a satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With its fragrant spices and colorful appearance, it’s sure to be a favorite at your table. Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal! 🥗✨

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Yellow Rice

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon turmeric (for color and flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, coating it evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil if needed. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Rice: In the same skillet, add the rice and toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

   🍚 Toasting the rice enhances its flavor and gives it a slightly nutty aroma.

4. Add Liquid and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth, turmeric, and cumin. Stir well and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

5. Combine: After 15 minutes, fluff the rice with a fork. If using, stir in the frozen peas and carrots, and place the cooked chicken on top. Cover again and let everything steam for an additional 5 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

🌿 Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon for an extra zesty finish—it complements the rice beautifully!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for some heat. 🔥
• Herbed Rice: Swap out the turmeric and cumin for a mix of herbs like thyme and oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead for a flavorful meatless meal.
• Coconut Rice: Substitute half the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor. 🥥

Enjoy this Easy Chicken and Yellow Rice recipe as a versatile base to get creative with your flavors! 🍽️💛