One Pan Turmeric Chicken Skillet

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a one-pan dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and has minimal cleanup, right? Enter the One Pan Turmeric Chicken Skillet—your new weeknight hero. This recipe combines juicy, golden-brown chicken with a vibrant, aromatic turmeric-infused sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s so simple to put together, making it perfect for those busy days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

I first stumbled upon turmeric chicken when I was looking for a way to use up some fresh turmeric in my fridge. I had seen a few recipes floating around, and the idea of infusing chicken with the earthy, slightly peppery flavor of turmeric intrigued me. After a few tweaks and testing, I found a combination of spices that really made the chicken pop, while keeping the cooking process quick and straightforward. Ever since then, it’s become one of our family’s go-to meals. The turmeric not only gives the chicken a gorgeous golden color but also adds a subtle warmth that’s perfect for any season.

This one-pan dish is a lifesaver when you need something hearty and flavorful in a flash. Pair it with a side of rice or your favorite veggies, and you’ve got a balanced, filling meal that will please the whole family. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is a keeper!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The beauty of this recipe is that it all comes together in one skillet, with minimal prep time. No need to juggle multiple pots and pans—everything cooks together, making it perfect for busy evenings or a last-minute dinner plan.
• Flavor-Packed: Turmeric brings an earthy, slightly bitter flavor to the chicken, complemented by garlic, ginger, and lemon. The spices meld perfectly, creating a rich, mouthwatering sauce that’s full of depth. Your taste buds will thank you!
• Healthy: This recipe uses lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. It’s a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the recipe based on what you have in your kitchen. If you don’t have one of the spices listed, swap it out with something similar. Add extra veggies or switch the chicken for another protein if you prefer.

It’s a simple, quick dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition, making it a great choice for anyone looking to add more spice to their routine!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing the chicken)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
• 1 tbsp ground turmeric (the star of the dish!)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky flavor)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (adds warmth to balance the spices)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 1/4 cup coconut milk (for richness)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (for brightness)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Fresh spinach or other greens (add for extra flavor and nutrition)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. If you’re using fresh turmeric, peel and grate it, or just stick with ground turmeric—both work wonderfully.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s golden and crispy. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
4. Add the Spices: Stir in the ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Let the spices toast in the oil for about 1 minute to release their aromatic flavors. You’ll notice the vibrant color of the turmeric start to fill the pan.
5. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add incredible flavor to the sauce. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer the Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the flavorful sauce. Cover the pan and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
7. Finish the Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Stir in the coconut milk and lemon juice to create a creamy sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 more minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
8. Add Greens (Optional): If you’re adding spinach or other greens, stir them into the sauce and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
9. Serve: Slice the chicken and drizzle with the turmeric sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it with a side of rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

How to Serve

• Over Rice: Serve the turmeric chicken over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or brown rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• With Roasted Veggies: Pair it with roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a well-rounded, healthy meal.
• Add a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette will complement the richness of the chicken perfectly.
• With Flatbread: Warm naan or pita bread is perfect for scooping up the turmeric sauce!

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken is essential for locking in flavor and creating that beautiful golden crust. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for the best results.
2. Make it Spice-Free: If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to leave out the smoked paprika or cinnamon. Turmeric still provides tons of flavor without the heat.
3. Substitute Coconut Milk: If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can substitute heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer sauce. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk is perfect.
4. Use Bone-in Chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken, that works well too! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chicken will take longer to cook.
5. Customize the Greens: Don’t just stop at spinach—try kale, swiss chard, or even arugula for a peppery bite to balance the dish.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for cauliflower steaks or firm tofu. Just make sure to pan-sear the cauliflower or tofu to get a crispy exterior before adding it to the sauce.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the spice mix if you like a little heat in your dishes.
• Crispy Chicken: For extra crispy chicken, coat the chicken breasts in a thin layer of flour or breadcrumbs before searing them.
• Serve with Quinoa: Try serving the turmeric chicken with quinoa for a nutritious, protein-packed alternative to rice.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pan Turmeric Chicken Skillet pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Side Dishes: Serve with roasted sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a simple Mediterranean salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives.
• Wine Pairings: A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity red like Pinot Noir would complement the spices of this dish well.
• For Kids: Serve the chicken with soft mashed potatoes or over buttered noodles for a family-friendly twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken will continue to absorb the flavors of the sauce, so it’s even better the next day!
• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

FAQ: One Pan Turmeric Chicken Skillet

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken! Bone-in chicken will need a bit more time to cook, so make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before removing it from the skillet. You may need to adjust the cooking time by adding an extra 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

2. What if I don’t have fresh turmeric?

No worries! Ground turmeric works just as well and is an excellent substitute. If using ground turmeric, you can use 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric for this recipe. Fresh turmeric tends to be milder in flavor, so you might want to adjust the amount slightly based on your preference.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is easily made dairy-free by substituting coconut milk for any cream or dairy-based milk. Coconut milk also adds a rich creaminess to the sauce, which enhances the dish’s flavor while keeping it dairy-free.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, you can increase the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even chopped fresh chili peppers along with the garlic and ginger. Adjust the heat to your liking!

5. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can substitute the chicken with chicken thighs, turkey, or even a vegetarian protein like tofu or tempeh. If using tofu, be sure to press it first to remove excess moisture before cooking it in the skillet.

Print

Conclusion

The One Pan Turmeric Chicken Skillet is everything you need in a weeknight meal: simple, flavorful, and easy to clean up. With its aromatic spices and creamy sauce, this dish brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your tastes and what you have in your pantry. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the family, this one-pan meal is guaranteed to satisfy. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation!