Save A fragrant, golden one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, aromatic basmati rice, and warming saffron—perfect for cozy dinners and effortless entertaining.
I first served this to my family on a chilly evening and it quickly became a favorite for its rich flavors and comforting aroma.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Aromatics: 1 large yellow onion finely chopped 3 garlic cloves minced 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- Rice & Saffron: 1½ cups basmati rice rinsed and drained 2¼ cups chicken broth (gluten-free if needed) ¼ teaspoon saffron threads 2 tablespoons hot water
- Garnishes (optional): ¼ cup slivered almonds toasted ¼ cup golden raisins 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro chopped Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl steep saffron threads in 2 tablespoons hot water set aside.
- Step 2:
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Step 3:
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat Add chicken thighs and sear for 2 3 minutes per side until lightly browned Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 4:
- In the same pot add onion and cook for 4 5 minutes until softened Stir in garlic cumin coriander and turmeric cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5:
- Add rinsed rice and stir to coat grains with spices and oil.
- Step 6:
- Pour in chicken broth and saffron water (including threads) Return chicken thighs to the pot nestling them into the rice.
- Step 7:
- Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low Cover tightly and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Step 8:
- Remove from heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes.
- Step 9:
- Fluff rice with a fork Garnish with toasted almonds golden raisins herbs and lemon wedges if desired Serve warm.
Save This dish reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table enjoying the fragrant meal and each others company.
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid Small bowl Measuring cups and spoons Chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (almonds) if using garnish Gluten-free if using certified gluten-free chicken broth Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden gluten or allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 460 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 56 g Protein 27 g per serving
Save Enjoy this warm flavorful pilaf as a centerpiece for your next dinner it's sure to impress and satisfy.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of rice is best for this dish?
Basmati rice is preferred due to its fragrance and fluffy texture, which complements the spices and chicken well.
- → How should saffron be prepared for the best flavor?
Steep saffron threads in hot water before adding to the dish to release their aroma and golden color evenly throughout the rice.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but adjust cooking time as breasts cook faster and may dry out if overcooked compared to thighs.
- → What garnish options enhance the dish?
Toasted almonds, golden raisins, fresh parsley or cilantro, and lemon wedges add delightful texture, sweetness, and brightness.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, using gluten-free chicken broth ensures the dish remains free from gluten ingredients.