This easy yellow rice is cooked on the stovetop with chicken broth and turmeric for a fluffy, flavorful side dish recipe that elevates any meal and is ready in only 25 minutes!
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Super Easy Yellow Rice Recipe from Scratch
Rice is a staple side dish in my kitchen, and I’m always looking for easy ways to make it a little more exciting. If you already know how to make rice on the stovetop, this yellow recipe recipe is a simple way to take plain rice up a notch using simple ingredients.
White rice is cooked with chicken broth and turmeric, giving it a beautiful golden color and savory flavor that pairs well with a variety main dishes. For something a little different, I also love making coconut rice for a lightly sweet option or Mexican rice for any Spanish-style dinner.
Ingredients Notes
Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.
- Olive oil: Used to lightly toast the rice before simmering, which helps build flavor and keeps the grains from sticking together.
- Long-grain white rice: This recipe works best with long-grain white rice, but basmati or jasmine rice are great options too. They cook up fluffy and separate.
- Chicken broth or stock: I prefer using a high-quality chicken broth or stock for the best flavor. Skip the water here. Broth is what gives the yellow rice its savory depth and keeps it from tasting flat.
- Seasonings: Turmeric adds that bold yellow color along with warm, earthy flavor, while salt brings everything together.
How to Make Yellow Rice
Start by heating the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Toast the rice for about a minute in the olive oil, stirring often, until the grains are lightly coated in the oil.
Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the turmeric and salt. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Remove from the heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes, then fluff with a fork before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t use brown rice. It will take longer to cook, need more water and not turn out as fluffy.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice from turning gummy.
- For even more flavor, add a small pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder.
- Fluff the rice with a fork after cooking to help separate the grains and keep it light and fluffy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This yellow rice pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Try serving it with:
- Chicken shawarma bowls or salmon bowls
- Grilled chicken skewers
- Baked tilapia
- Grain bowls
For more recipes with rice try: black beans and rice and cilantro lime rice which makes a great base for salads and bowls.
More Rice Recipes
Easy Yellow Rice
Video
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup rice
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Brown rice: In a small saucepan, add 1 cup rice and 1 Tablespoon oil. Cook on medium high for 1 minute.
- Boil: Add 1 1/2 cups chicken broth, 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Cover with tight fitting lid and simmer for 20 – 25 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Last step: Please leave a comment and rating after you make the recipe.
Notes
- Rice cooker: :Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for timing, using the same ingredients.
- Instant Pot: Add all ingredients to the pot and cook on low pressure using the Rice setting. Naturally release for 10 minutes. No rice setting? Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
Nutrition
Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.
