Description
This spiced chicken and rice pilaf is a comforting one-pot meal made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and warm aromatic spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to customize.
Ingredients
This spiced chicken and rice pilaf is a comforting one-pot meal made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and warm aromatic spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to customize.
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon (if using) and cook briefly to release aroma.
- Add rice and stir to coat in the spiced mixture.
- Pour in chicken broth, then add diced carrot and optional dried fruit. Season with salt and pepper.
- Return chicken to the pot, nestling it into the rice.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Add peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat, let rest covered for a few minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and toasted nuts if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Use basmati rice for extra fragrance or brown rice for a healthier option (adjust cooking time).Avoid overcooking to keep rice fluffy, not mushy.Add chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
