Some meals feel like a warm pause in the middle of a busy day, and this crispy chicken rice skillet is exactly that. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with gentle spice aromas and reminds you of slow evenings when food was cooked patiently in one pot. The sizzling sound of chicken browning, the comfort of coconut milk simmering with rice, and the final touch of ghee bring a sense of home that feels deeply grounding.
This recipe was born from the need to make something filling without standing in the kitchen for hours. Everything happens in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to sit down and actually enjoy the meal. The rice absorbs all the flavors from the marinated chicken and spices, turning each spoonful into something rich but not heavy.
It’s forgiving, flexible, and perfect for days when you just want food that feels reassuring. Use what you already have in your kitchen, trust your instincts, and let the pot do most of the work. This is the kind of recipe that quietly becomes a family favorite without trying too hard.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Soup :
Step 1 :
Mix chicken with yogurt, salt, ginger, garlic, turmeric, and chili powder. I used the OXO Good Grips 3 Quart Mixing Bowl, but any bowl at home works just fine.
Step 2 :
Heat oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until lightly crispy and golden. I’m using a Lodge Cast Iron Skillet, though your regular pan will work perfectly.
Step 3 :
Remove chicken and sauté onions with bay leaves and ginger. Add soaked rice and stir gently using a Cuisinart Silicone Spatula.
Step 4 :
Pour in hot coconut milk and water, return chicken to the pot, cover, and cook until rice is tender.
Step 5 :
Finish with garam masala, coriander, and ghee. Give one gentle stir and serve warm.
Who This Crispy Chicken Rice Skillet Is Perfect For :
Kid-Friendly :
Soft rice with tender chicken that’s easy to eat
Mildly spiced and customizable for less heat
Comforting one-pot meal kids enjoy
No complicated textures or strong flavors
Fitness-Focused Benefits :
High-protein chicken supports muscle and fullness
Balanced carbs from basmati rice for steady energy
Healthy fats from coconut milk and ghee
Can be paired with a light salad for a balanced meal
Busy-Life Adults Advantages :
One-pot cooking means fewer dishes
Simple prep with minimal hands-on time
Great for meal prep and reheats well for 2–3 days
Works perfectly for lunch or an easy dinner
