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 become a family favorite for its rich flavors and simple preparation.
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.
Pin It This dish brings the family together on chilly evenings for comforting and flavorful 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 per serving
Pin It 
This saffron chicken and rice pilaf is a vibrant meal that will brighten your dinner table with delicious aromas and flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → How is saffron prepared for this dish?
Saffron threads are steeped in hot water before adding to the rice, allowing the vibrant color and aroma to infuse deeply.
- → Can I substitute chicken thighs with other cuts?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used but may require shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.
- → What role do the spices play in this dish?
Ground cumin, coriander, and turmeric add warm, earthy flavors complementing the aromatic saffron and enriching the rice.
- → Are there suggested garnishes to enhance the meal?
Toasted almonds, golden raisins, fresh parsley or cilantro, and lemon wedges provide texture contrast and bright notes.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, using gluten-free chicken broth ensures the dish remains gluten-free without compromising flavor.
- → What cooking equipment is recommended?
A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with a lid works best to evenly cook and seal in flavors during simmering.