Pin It A fragrant, golden one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, aromatic basmati rice, and warming saffron—perfect for cozy dinners and effortless entertaining.
This recipe has been a family favorite for years it's both comforting and impressive enough for guests
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 heavybottomed pot or Dutch oven over mediumhigh heat Add chicken thighs and sear for 23 minutes per side until lightly browned Remove chicken and set aside
- Step 4:
- In the same pot add onion and cook for 45 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
Pin It Sharing this meal always brings my family together around the table with smiles and full hearts
Preparation and Cooking Times
Preparation Time 20 minutes Cooking Time 35 minutes Total Time 55 minutes
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or heavybottomed pot with lid Small bowl Measuring cups and spoons Chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (almonds) if using garnish Glutenfree if using certified glutenfree chicken broth Always doublecheck ingredient labels for hidden gluten or allergens
Pin It This saffron chicken and rice pilaf is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
Recipe FAQs
- → How do saffron threads enhance the dish?
Saffron imparts a subtle floral aroma and a rich golden hue, elevating both the flavor and appearance of the rice.
- → Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted, but adjust cooking times to avoid dryness.
- → What spices complement this dish?
Cumin, coriander, and turmeric add warm, earthy notes that perfectly balance the saffron’s fragrance.
- → Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?
Omitting chicken and using vegetable broth with added chickpeas or vegetables works well as a hearty alternative.
- → How should I garnish for extra texture?
Toasted slivered almonds, golden raisins, fresh parsley or cilantro, and lemon wedges add crunch and brightness.