Save to Pinterest A fragrant, golden one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, aromatic basmati rice, and warming saffron perfect for cozy dinners and effortless entertaining.
This is a cozy dish I love to prepare when I want something flavorful yet simple to make.
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 to Pinterest My whole family enjoys this dish especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is a must.
Notes
Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc for the perfect meal experience.
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.
Save to Pinterest This dish is both flavorful and simple to make, perfect as a wholesome meal any night of the week.
Recipe Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I steep saffron properly?
Steep saffron threads in hot water for at least 5 minutes to release their color and aroma before adding to the dish.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but adjust cooking time as breasts cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
- → What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works well as a substitute to maintain flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.
- → How do I ensure the rice cooks evenly?
Bring liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover tightly to simmer gently without stirring during cooking.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Toasted almonds, golden raisins, fresh parsley or cilantro, and lemon wedges add texture and brightness.