Cooking on busy weeknights can be overwhelming, especially when juggling work, chores, and family time. That’s where one-pot recipes come to the rescue. These meals simplify your cooking routine while ensuring you don’t compromise on taste or nutrition.
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With just one pot or pan, you can whip up hearty dishes that satisfy your cravings and minimise cleanup. Whether you’re a fan of Indian flavours or international cuisines, there’s something for everyone on this list. From comforting khichdi to indulgent butter chicken, these recipes are not only easy but also a joy to cook and eat. So, grab your favourite pot and let’s get started!
One-Pot Chicken Rice
This dish combines tender chicken, fragrant rice, and aromatic spices in one pot. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a bit of oil. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned. Toss in spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala for an Indian twist. Add rinsed basmati rice and chicken stock, cover, and let it simmer. In about 20 minutes, you’ll have a flavourful and complete meal. Garnish with fresh coriander for an extra burst of flavour.
Masala Vegetable Khichdi
A comfort food classic, masala vegetable khichdi is wholesome and nourishing. This one-pot dish combines rice, lentils, and seasonal vegetables with a blend of Indian spices. Begin by tempering mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chillies in ghee. Add chopped vegetables, washed rice, and yellow lentils (moong dal). Pour in water or stock, and season with turmeric, cumin, and salt. Pressure cook or simmer until everything is soft and creamy. Serve with a dollop of ghee or a side of yoghurt.
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One-Pot Honey Lemon Chicken
This sweet and tangy dish is a family favourite. In a large skillet, sear chicken thighs until golden brown. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic and add a mixture of honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer until cooked through. You can add vegetables like carrots or broccoli for a complete meal. Serve over rice or enjoy as is.
One-Pot Chicken Pasta
Pasta lovers will adore this creamy and cheesy one-pot chicken pasta. Start by sautéing chicken pieces with garlic and onions. Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and cream or milk to the pot. Stir in your favourite seasonings like oregano, chilli flakes, and a hint of paprika. Let the pasta cook in the liquid until al dente. Stir in grated cheese and fresh basil before serving. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
One-Pot Butter Chicken
Recreate the restaurant's favourite butter chicken with minimal effort. In a deep pan, sauté onions, ginger, and garlic with butter until aromatic. Add chicken pieces and a mix of spices like turmeric, red chilli powder, and garam masala. Stir in tomato puree and cream, letting everything simmer until the chicken is tender. Pair this rich and creamy dish with naan or rice for a delightful meal.
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One-Pot Chole Chawal
Chole chawal is a classic North Indian comfort food that’s easy to make in one pot. Begin by sautéing onions, tomatoes, and garlic with spices like cumin, coriander, and chole masala. Add soaked and cooked chickpeas along with rice. Pour in enough water to cook the rice, cover, and let it simmer. The result is a fragrant and hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Image Credits: Freepik
One-Pot Rasam Rice
A South Indian staple, rasam rice is tangy, spicy, and incredibly comforting. In a pot, prepare a simple rasam using tamarind water, tomatoes, garlic, and a blend of spices like mustard seeds, curry leaves, and asafoetida. Add cooked rice to the rasam and mix well. Simmer for a few minutes until the flavours meld together. Serve hot with a drizzle of ghee and some crispy papad on the side.