Cooking is one of those comforting activities that can transform an ordinary day into something special. Picture this: the tantalizing scent of spiced chicken sizzling away in a hot skillet, inviting curiosity and setting the stage for a delicious meal. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I created this Serious Eats Chicken and Rice dish—a vibrant combination of tender marinated chicken thighs and fluffy basmati rice, finished off with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce.
After a long day, it’s perfect for unwinding with loved ones or impressing friends at a casual gathering. The rich spices, combined with fresh lettuce and juicy tomatoes, make for a colorful presentation that’s also packed with flavor. What’s more, this recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying— a true crowd-pleaser that brings joy to any table. Let’s dive in and discover how to whip up this comforting meal that’s destined to become a regular in your kitchen repertoire!
Why is Serious Eats Chicken and Rice a Must-Try?
Comforting, Perfectly Balanced flavors meld together seamlessly in this dish, creating a meal that’s both hearty and refreshing.
Quick and Time-Saving, you can whip this up in just over an hour—ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties.
Bold Spices like cumin and turmeric bring warmth and depth, while the creamy garlic yogurt sauce elevates each bite.
Versatile, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys.
Crowd-Pleasing, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends, making it one of those dishes you’ll love serving for gatherings.
Serious Eats Chicken and Rice Ingredients
Discover all the essentials for crafting this delightful dish!
For the Chicken Marinade
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – a juicy choice that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Olive oil – helps with marinating and enhances the dish’s richness.
- Ground cumin – adds warmth and earthiness; a staple spice in many cuisines.
- Ground coriander – offers a hint of citrus that brightens the flavor profile.
- Paprika – brings vibrant color and a smoky element to the chicken.
- Turmeric – imparts a lovely golden hue and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Cayenne pepper (optional) – for those who like a little heat, it adds a lovely kick.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Juice of 1 lemon – fresh acidity balances the savory elements wonderfully.
For the Rice
- Basmati rice – rinsing and soaking results in fluffy grains, the perfect base.
- Unsalted butter – enriches the rice, making it extra flavorful.
- Ground turmeric – enhances the color and gives a subtle taste that complements the rice.
- Ground cumin – reinforces the spice blend present in the chicken.
- Chicken broth – infuses the rice with deeper flavor than water alone.
- Salt, to taste – season to perfection for delightful bites!
For the Creamy Sauce
- Mayonnaise – creates a rich base for the sauce, lending creaminess.
- Greek yogurt – adds tang and makes it lighter and refreshing.
- Lemon juice – for extra brightness that cuts through the richness.
- White vinegar – enhances the flavor and provides balance.
- Garlic, minced – infuses the sauce with a savory kick.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – essential for enhancing all the flavors in the sauce.
For the Serving
- Romaine lettuce, shredded – adds a fresh crunch to the meal.
- Tomatoes, diced – brings color and juiciness, complementing the warm dish.
- Warm pita bread or flatbread – perfect for scooping up chicken and rice!
Ready to create your unforgettable Serious Eats Chicken and Rice experience? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Serious Eats Chicken and Rice
-
Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well-coated, and marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
-
Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs and sear until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side. Allow them to rest for a few minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
-
Prepare the Rice: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add ground turmeric and cumin. Stir for about 1 minute. Add the soaked basmati rice, coating it in the spices. Pour in chicken broth and salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 18 minutes, remove from heat, and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
-
Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth, then chill until ready to serve.
-
Assemble the Dish: On each plate, create a base of rice, layer with chopped chicken, and top with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. Drizzle generously with the creamy sauce and serve with warm pita bread.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Serious Eats Chicken and Rice are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. The creamy garlic yogurt sauce can be stirred together and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just make sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the chicken and prepare the rice, which should be cooked fresh for the best texture. This way, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness while saving valuable time on busy weeknights!
Helpful Tricks for Serious Eats Chicken and Rice
-
Marinate Long Enough: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible. This ensures maximum flavor infusion into the meat.
-
Perfect Rice Texture: Rinse and soak the basmati rice before cooking to prevent it from becoming sticky. Fluff gently after resting for the best texture.
-
Searing Technique: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve a nice golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam instead of sear the chicken.
-
Sauce Cooling Tip: Chilling the creamy garlic yogurt sauce enhances its flavors. Prepare it ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge while you cook the chicken and rice.
-
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lemon juice, garlic, and vegetables for a vibrant taste. Fresh ingredients can elevate the entire dish, making your Serious Eats Chicken and Rice shine even more!
-
Serve with Love: Present the meal beautifully by layering the ingredients, and don’t forget to provide warm pita on the side for a delightful experience.
What to Serve with Serious Eats Chicken and Rice?
Creating a delightful meal is all about harmony, and pairing options can elevate your dining experience.
-
Garlicky Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with olive oil and garlic, these crisp beans provide a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and rice. Their vibrant green color on the plate adds a beautiful touch, complementing the meal perfectly.
-
Cucumber Yogurt Salad: This cool and creamy salad made with fresh cucumbers and yogurt balances the warm spices of the chicken, offering a refreshing flavor. It’s not only delicious but also brings a crunch that enhances every bite.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection bring a hearty element to your dish. Their natural sweetness and caramelization create a delightful contrast that pairs beautifully with chicken and rice.
-
Lemon Herb Quinoa: This light and fluffy quinoa with a hint of lemon adds a refreshing twist while remaining a nutritious side. Its soft texture makes it a lovely companion to the main dish, enhancing the overall experience.
-
Chickpea Salad: Packed with protein and fiber, a vibrant chickpea salad with cherry tomatoes and red onion provides a colorful, nutritious kick. The zesty dressing brings a tangy flavor that brightens the entire meal.
-
Warm Pita Bread: Essential for scooping up delicious bites, warm pita adds a lovely chewy texture alongside the meal. You can even stuff it with extras, turning your dining experience into a fun feast.
-
Mint Lemonade: A refreshing drink like mint lemonade pairs perfectly, providing a cooling effect that complements the spices. It’s a delightful way to cleanse your palate and adds a touch of sweetness to your meal.
-
Baklava: For dessert, consider serving baklava. This sweet, flaky treat packed with nuts and honey offers a delightful ending to your savory meal, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.
How to Store and Freeze Serious Eats Chicken and Rice
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish remains flavorful, making it a go-to for easy lunches.
Freezer: You can freeze the chicken and rice separately for up to 2 months. Let everything cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat and heat the rice in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth for added moisture.
Storage Tips: Keep the creamy sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness and consistency. Drizzle just before serving your Serious Eats Chicken and Rice!
Serious Eats Chicken and Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
-
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for chickpeas or grilled vegetables for a hearty, plant-based option. You’ll still enjoy all the warmth and flavors!
-
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper to the marinade for a fiery kick that delivers layers of heat. Spice lovers, rejoice!
-
Herb-Infused Rice: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the rice while cooking for a fragrant and vibrant twist that elevates the dish.
-
Coconut Rice: Replace chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, subtly sweet rice that pairs perfectly with the spices in the chicken.
-
Crispy Toppings: Garnish with toasted nuts or crispy fried onions for added crunch and texture that will make each bite even more satisfying.
-
Lemon Herb Sauce: Swap out the creamy sauce for a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette for a lighter, refreshing dressing that complements the dish beautifully.
-
Middle Eastern Flair: Infuse the marinade with sumac or za’atar for a delightful nod to Middle Eastern flavors that will whisk you away to exotic lands with each bite.
-
Quinoa Alternative: Substitute basmati rice with quinoa for a nutritious grain option that’s packed with protein and has a lovely nutty flavor.
Serious Eats Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my chicken thighs are fresh?
Absolutely! Look for chicken thighs that are a light pink color, firm to the touch, and have minimal liquid in the packaging. Avoid any pieces with dark spots or off smells, as these are signs of spoilage. When you get home, store them in the fridge and aim to use them within 1-2 days for the best quality.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For best results, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. Your Serious Eats Chicken and Rice will stay delicious for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it—this will keep it fresh and flavorful for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze the chicken and rice? How?
Yes, you can definitely freeze the chicken and rice! First, let everything cool completely. Divide the chicken and rice into portion-sized freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the meal in the fridge overnight. Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat and reheat the rice gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth for extra moisture.
What if my basmati rice turns out sticky?
Very! This common issue often happens when the rice isn’t rinsed enough before cooking. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch that causes stickiness. Additionally, ensure you soak it for at least 20 minutes and fluff it gently with a fork after cooking. This will give you the fluffy texture you’re looking for!
Is there a gluten-free option for this dish?
Absolutely! If you or anyone at your table has gluten sensitivities, you can enjoy this recipe without worry. Just make sure to use a gluten-free mayonnaise or yogurt alternative for the creamy sauce, and check your pita bread or opt for gluten-free flatbread to serve on the side.
Can I use different vegetables in the recipe?
Sure thing! Feel free to adjust the toppings to suit your family’s taste. Some great options include diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even chopped bell peppers. The more the merrier—adding seasonal veggies can enhance both flavor and nutrition in your Serious Eats Chicken and Rice!
Savory Serious Eats Chicken and Rice for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they're well-coated, and marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs and sear until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side. Allow them to rest for a few minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Rice: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add ground turmeric and cumin. Stir for about 1 minute. Add the soaked basmati rice, coating it in the spices. Pour in chicken broth and salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 18 minutes, remove from heat, and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth, then chill until ready to serve.
- Assemble the Dish: On each plate, create a base of rice, layer with chopped chicken, and top with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. Drizzle generously with the creamy sauce and serve with warm pita bread.