Some dinners just have a way of wrapping you up in warmth and comfort, and this Spiced Chicken Rice Skillet does exactly that. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with the scent of smoky paprika and earthy cumin, promising something good is about to happen. When the day’s been long and the evening feels rushed, this one-pan dish comes through with flavors that feel like a hug.
I still remember the first time I made this skillet. The sizzle of chicken skin crisping up, the gentle simmer of rice soaking in all those fragrant spices—it’s a moment where impatience fades and anticipation builds. The tender chicken resting atop fluffy rice, flecked with bright cilantro, looks so inviting that you can’t wait to dive in. Each bite is a little celebration of spice and comfort mingled together.
- All-in-one skillet cooking means fewer dishes and more time to relax.
- Rich, aromatic spices create a flavor-packed dinner that’s anything but boring.
- Tender chicken thighs paired with fluffy rice make it hearty and satisfying.
- Simple ingredients come together quickly for a weekday-friendly meal.
- Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and brightness just before serving.
Even if you’re new to cooking spiced dishes, this recipe is straightforward enough to inspire confidence and curiosity. It’s a great way to bring exciting flavors to your dinner table without feeling overwhelmed.
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Spiced Chicken Rice Skillet
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A flavorful and hearty one-pan meal featuring tender chicken thighs cooked with aromatic spices, vegetables, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the rice in the oil and spices.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up.
Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the dish before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs work well, but cooking time may be slightly shorter. Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for fresh cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try chopped parsley or skip the herb altogether—the dish is flavorful enough on its own.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to three days. Freezing may affect the texture of the rice.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth and check your spices for any additives.
When life gets busy, having a go-to skillet meal like this Spiced Chicken Rice Skillet is a quiet relief. It’s the kind of dinner that invites you to slow down, savor, and feel a little pride in what you’ve made. So go ahead, save this recipe, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.