Golden Saffron and Cardamom Spiced Chicken Rice Pilau

Infused with the warm, aromatic flavors of saffron and cardamom, this Golden Saffron and Cardamom Spiced Chicken Rice Pilau is an irresistible one-pot wonder that combines tender, bone-in chicken thighs with perfectly fluffy basmati rice. This traditional dish features a medley of fragrant spices, including cinnamon, cloves, and turmeric, creating layers of complex, savory flavor. Enhanced by the golden hue of saffron bloomed in warm milk, this hearty pilau is both vibrant and satisfying. Garnished with fresh cilantro, toasted slivered almonds, and golden raisins for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, it’s a perfect centerpiece for family dinners or special gatherings. Ready in just over an hour, it’s a complete and comforting meal sure to become a favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 6 pieces Chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless)
• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 1 pinch Saffron strands
• 2 tablespoons Warm milk
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1 large Onion (thinly sliced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger (grated)
• 6 pods Cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
• 1 stick Whole cinnamon stick
• 4 whole Cloves
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Ground turmeric
• 4 cups Chicken stock
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons Slivered almonds (toasted, optional)
• 2 tablespoons Golden raisins (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in fresh water for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

Soak the saffron strands in warm milk and set aside to bloom.

Step 3

Heat the vegetable oil and butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the sliced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, stirring frequently.

Step 5

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices.

Step 7

Season the chicken thighs with a pinch of salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear on each side for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 8

Stir in the ground cumin and turmeric, coating the chicken evenly with the spices.

Step 9

Add the drained basmati rice to the pot, gently stirring to combine with the chicken and spices.

Step 10

Pour in the chicken stock, saffron milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to distribute evenly.

Step 11

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot tightly with a lid.

Step 12

Simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. Avoid removing the lid during cooking.

Step 13

Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes.

Step 14

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro, toasted slivered almonds, and golden raisins if desired.

Step 15

Serve the Golden Saffron and Cardamom Spiced Chicken Rice Pilau warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2738.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2814.5

Total Fat 141.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 37.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.8g
Cholesterol 713.7mg	0%
Sodium 4579.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 155.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.6g	0%
Total Sugars 24.3g
Protein 231.3g	0%

Vitamin D 42.0IU	0%
Calcium 464.6mg	0%
Iron 24.1mg	0%
Potassium 2385.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.2%

Protein: 32.8%

Carbs: 22.0%