Spiced Chicken and Rice

Name: Spiced Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 cups basmati rice; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 cups chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

I always find comfort in a dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table, and this Spiced Chicken and Rice is precisely that! The combination of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and perfectly cooked rice creates a meal that's wonderful for any occasion. We love how every bite packs a punch of flavor while still being easy to prepare. Whether you're cooking for a special gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress. It's a recipe that reminds me of my family's gatherings, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-01-27T11:29:27.673Z

During the recent family gathering, I decided to prepare my Spiced Chicken and Rice, a recipe that never fails to bring smiles around the table. I marinated the chicken for a few hours to allow the spices to infuse deeply, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. Each bite was complemented by the aromatic rice, which soaked up the sauce beautifully, making it incredibly satisfying.

One of my favorite techniques is to toast the spices before adding them to the dish. This step brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavors. It may seem like a small thing, but it makes a significant difference in the overall taste. Trust me; your guests will be asking for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bold flavors that awaken your taste buds
A one-pot meal that's perfect for busy weeknights
Comforting and satisfying for any occasion

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that infuses the meat with flavor and tenderness. I recommend allowing at least 30 minutes for the marinade, but if you have the time, letting the chicken sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge can deepen the flavors significantly. Plastic bags work great for marinating, as you can easily coat the chicken. Just remember to discard any remaining marinade that has been in contact with the raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.

As you blend the ingredients for the marinade, pay attention to the balance of spices. The warmth from the cumin and paprika contrasts beautifully with the freshness of garlic and ginger, creating a harmonious flavor profile. If you love extra heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

The type of rice you use plays a vital role in the dish's texture. Basmati rice is perfect for this recipe due to its long grains and fragrant aroma. Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy. Aim to wash the rice under cold water until it runs clear, which usually takes about 2-3 rinses. This simple step can make a significant difference in achieving fluffy, separate grains.

When you add the broth to the rice, don’t rush this process. Bringing it to a boil, then reducing to a gentle simmer helps the rice absorb the liquid evenly. A tight-fitting lid is essential here; if steam escapes, the rice may end up undercooked. Keep an eye on it and resist the temptation to lift the lid too soon. After 25 minutes, you want the rice to be tender, with small bubbles forming around the edges of the skillet.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 cups basmati rice
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon paprika
2 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything on hand to enjoy this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Spiced Chicken and Rice:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs with this marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Onion

In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the basmati rice and then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Combine Ingredients

Nestle the cooked chicken back in the skillet with the rice and cover. Cook for about 25 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

Enjoy your meal with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chili flakes to the marinade. You can also substitute chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option.

Serving Suggestions

This Spiced Chicken and Rice is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. I love serving it with a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed in lemon and olive oil to refresh the palate. Additionally, a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta can add a nice creaminess that complements the spices perfectly.

Another idea is to serve the dish atop a bed of steamed greens, such as spinach or kale. The vibrant colors and textures enhance the visual appeal and add nutrition, creating a well-rounded meal. When plating, consider garnishing with extra cilantro and lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a busy week, consider pre-marinating the chicken the night before. This not only saves you time but also allows the spices to seep into the meat, resulting in an even more flavorful dish when cooked. You can store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours without sacrificing taste.

Leftovers of this dish can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to reheat, do so gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out. You can also freeze the chicken and rice for up to three months, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What spices can I add for more flavor?

Feel free to experiment with garam masala or cumin powder for added depth.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the rice earlier. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated during the week.