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 fragrant spices and simple prep for a flavorful Middle Eastern dish that has become a family favorite for weeknight meals.
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 is always a highlight at family dinners where the fragrant aromas fill the kitchen and everyone gathers for seconds.
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
Per serving: Calories 460 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 56 g Protein 27 g
Save 
Serve warm garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a perfect finish.
Questions & Answers
- → What type of rice works best for this dish?
Basmati rice is ideal for this pilaf due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture when cooked.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted but may require shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.
- → How should saffron be prepared for maximum flavor?
Steep saffron threads in hot water before adding to the dish to fully release their color and aroma.
- → Are there vegetarian variations for this dish?
Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding chickpeas or extra vegetables for protein and texture.
- → What garnishes enhance the dish’s flavors and presentation?
Toasted almonds, golden raisins, fresh parsley or cilantro, and lemon wedges add contrasting textures and brightness.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as gluten-free chicken broth is used, the dish remains naturally gluten-free.