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One-Pan Tandoori Chicken and Rice

One-Pan Tandoori Chicken and Rice for Effortless Flavorful Dinners

This One-Pan Tandoori Chicken and Rice is an easy, flavorful dinner packed with marinated chicken and basmati rice.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Substitution: Use regular yogurt if Greek is unavailable.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Substitution: Lime juice can provide a similar effect.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitution: Vegetable or peanut oil can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Tandoori Masala Substitution: Homemade blend with garam masala, smoked paprika, and cumin if tandoori masala is not available.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin No substitutions recommended for distinct flavor profiles.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric No substitutions recommended for distinct flavor profiles.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika No substitutions recommended for distinct flavor profiles.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 inch Ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
For the Dish
  • 1 medium Onion, sliced Substitution: Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Basmati Rice, rinsed Substitution: Brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Substitution: Vegetable broth for a lighter variant or water if unavailable.
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs Substitution: Boneless thighs or breasts for a quicker cooking time.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped Omit if unavailable; use parsley instead if desired.
  • 1 lime Lime Wedges Serve alongside for an extra burst of flavor.

Equipment

  • oven-safe skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pan Tandoori Chicken and Rice
  1. Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, tandoori masala, cumin, turmeric, paprika, minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt until smooth. Coat the chicken thighs generously with the marinade, ensuring they are well covered. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, let it marinate overnight.
  2. Preheat Oven: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your One-Pan Tandoori Chicken and Rice cooks evenly and retains moisture, creating that beautifully tender chicken and fluffy rice you desire.
  3. Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the marinated chicken, skin-side down, and sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Carefully remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate for now.
  4. Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, continuing to cook until they soften and turn a light golden color.
  5. Prepare Rice: Stir in 1 cup of rinsed basmati rice into the skillet, ensuring the rice gets coated with the onion and oil. Toast it gently for about 1 minute. Then, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer for about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Combine and Bake: Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or foil to trap the steam, and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
  7. Rest and Serve: After baking, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your One-Pan Tandoori Chicken and Rice straight from the skillet for a delightful and satisfying meal!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Ensure the skillet is tightly covered during baking for moist results. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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