Budget Friendly One Pot Chicken and Yellow Rice – Learn how to make a delicious and budget-friendly one pot chicken and …

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Budget Friendly One Pot Chicken and Yellow Rice

In today’s fast-paced world, finding delicious meals that are both budget-friendly and easy to prepare is essential. One Pot Chicken and Yellow Rice is a fantastic option that checks all the boxes. This comforting dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 cups long-grain rice (white or brown)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or water with bouillon)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Spices and Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons turmeric (for the yellow color)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (or any cooking oil)

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the turmeric, paprika, and cumin.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear each side for about 5 minutes or until browned. Remove chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if necessary, and sauté the diced onion for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the rice and remaining spices (turmeric, paprika, and cumin), making sure the rice is well-coated with the oil and spices.
2. Return Chicken: Place the seared chicken back into the pot and pour in the chicken broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Cook the Dish

1. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. If using brown rice, adjust the cooking time according to package instructions, usually around 35-40 minutes.
2. Add Peas: If you’re including peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed, fluff the dish with a fork and let it sit for 5 minutes, covered.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.

Budget-Friendly Tips

1. Choose Affordable Cuts: Boneless chicken thighs are often cheaper than breasts and remain juicy during cooking.
2. Bulk Up with Vegetables: You can add any vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots, corn, or green beans, to stretch your meal further.
3. Make Extra: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for future use, making it a great meal prep option.

Conclusion

One Pot Chicken and Yellow Rice is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a nourishing dish on a budget. With minimal cleanup and all the flavors in one pot, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delicious simplicity of this budget-friendly meal, and feel free to experiment with spices and ingredients to make it your own!