Save A fragrant, golden one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, aromatic basmati rice, and warming saffron—perfect for cozy dinners and effortless entertaining.
This recipe combines aromatic spices with tender chicken for a flavorful and comforting dish I enjoy making on chilly evenings.
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 always brings my family together especially during colder months when we crave comforting meals.
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
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Serve this saffron chicken pilaf with a side of fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Recipe Q&A
- → How should saffron threads be prepared for this dish?
Steep the saffron threads in hot water for a few minutes before adding to the pot, which helps release their color and aroma.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted but may require a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.
- → What is the purpose of toasting the almonds?
Toasting almonds brings out their nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch as a garnish.
- → How do the spices affect the rice?
Cumin, coriander, and turmeric infuse the rice with warm, earthy notes that complement the saffron's floral aroma.
- → Is it possible to make a vegetarian variation?
Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth; adding chickpeas or extra vegetables enhances texture and flavor.
- → What cooking vessel works best for even results?
A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven ensures even heat distribution and prevents sticking during simmering.