Saffron Chicken Rice Pilaf

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 beloved family recipe that brings warmth and comfort to our dinner table regularly.

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

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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.

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

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This dish often leads to joyful family dinners sharing stories and laughter around the table.

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

Nutritional Information

Calories 460 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 56 g Protein 27 g per serving

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Melt chocolate or cheese smoothly for dipping fruits, pretzels, and snacks during desserts and parties.

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Serve warm and enjoy the comforting blend of spices and textures.

Saffron Brook Recipe Q&As

→ How do I prepare saffron for cooking?

Soak saffron threads in hot water for a few minutes to release their color and aroma before adding to the dish.

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs with another cut?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used but may require a shorter cooking time to avoid dryness.

→ What type of rice works best here?

Basmati rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture, complementing the spices and saffron well.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives for this dish?

Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding chickpeas or extra vegetables for protein and flavor.

→ How can I enhance the flavor of the chicken?

Marinate the chicken in yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice for about an hour before cooking to deepen flavor and tenderness.