Persian-Style Chicken Pilaf – Fragrant, Golden & Full of Middle Eastern Flavor
This Persian-Style Chicken Pilaf is a celebration of flavor and tradition! Tender chicken is simmered with aromatic spices and layered into fluffy basmati rice infused with saffron, turmeric, and caramelized onions. Finished with tart barberries or dried cranberries, it’s a stunning one-pot dish perfect for festive dinners or cozy family meals.
Equipment
- Large nonstick pot or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Fine mesh strainer
- Clean kitchen towel
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- ¼ tsp turmeric
- 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
- Pinch of saffron threads
- 2 tbsp warm water (for blooming saffron)
- ¼ cup raisins (or dried cranberries)
- ¼ cup slivered almonds (or pine nuts)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley and mint
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: natural yogurt for serving
Instructions
- Prep the Rice & Saffron Rinse rice until water runs clear. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes. Bloom saffron in warm water and set aside.
- Brown the Chicken Season chicken with salt, pepper, and turmeric. Sear in oil until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics In the same pot, cook onions until caramelized. Add cinnamon, cardamom, and pomegranate molasses. Stir well.
- Layer the Pilaf Drain rice and layer over onion-chicken mixture. Drizzle saffron water. Scatter raisins and nuts. Do not stir.
- Create Tahdig & Steam Pour oil around edges. Wrap lid in towel (bold tip: traps steam and crisps tahdig). Cover and cook on medium for 5 minutes, then reduce to low and steam for 40 minutes.
- Garnish & Serve Fluff rice gently. Serve with fresh herbs, toasted nuts, and yogurt.
Notes
- Saffron Tip: Use high-quality threads for best aroma and color.
- Molasses Substitute: Mix balsamic vinegar with honey or use reduced cranberry juice.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils.
- Tahdig Rescue: Re-crisp leftovers in a skillet for that golden crunch.