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Saffron Chicken With Rice

Saffron Chicken With Rice recipe image
This saffron chicken with rice is a fragrant and comforting one-pot meal that brings the warmth of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors to your dinner table. Tender chicken breasts are simmered with long-grain rice, rich chicken broth, and a splash of tomato sauce, creating a cohesive dish where every grain absorbs the savory juices. The addition of saffron threads imparts a beautiful golden hue and a distinct, earthy aroma, while green chiles add a gentle kick of heat. Red bell peppers provide a sweet crunch and vibrant color contrast. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal cleanup and delivers a balanced, hearty dinner that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen. Serve it family-style for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8
Calories: 947.8
Dietary: Gluten-free, Low-fat
Description
This saffron chicken with rice is a fragrant and comforting one-pot meal that brings the warmth of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors to your dinner table. Tender chicken breasts are simmered with long-grain rice, rich chicken broth, and a splash of tomato sauce, creating a cohesive dish where every grain absorbs the savory juices. The addition of saffron threads imparts a beautiful golden hue and a distinct, earthy aroma, while green chiles add a gentle kick of heat. Red bell peppers provide a sweet crunch and vibrant color contrast. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal cleanup and delivers a balanced, hearty dinner that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen. Serve it family-style for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
  • 2 cup Long-grain rice
  • 1 Onion Finely chopped
  • 3 Cloves Garlic -- minced
  • 2 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 3 cup Chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 pound Chicken breasts without skin
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 400&# 194;°F (200°C).
  2. 2
    Cut the chicken breasts into 1/2-inch cubes.
  3. 3
    Core, seed, and dice one red bell pepper.
  4. 4
    In a large oven-safe saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  5. 5
    Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and long-grain rice to the pan.
  6. 6
    Sauté, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent and the rice turns golden brown, about 12 minutes.
  7. 7
    Add the chicken broth, cubed chicken, diced red bell pepper, 8 oz tomato sauce, 4 oz diced green chiles, 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads.
  8. 8
    Stir well to combine all ingredients and ensure the saffron is distributed throughout the liquid.
  9. 9
    Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
  10. 10
    Place the covered pan in the preheated oven.
  11. 11
    Bake uncovered for the last 5 minutes if you desire a slightly crispy top, otherwise keep covered until rice has absorbed all liquid and chicken is cooked through, about 25-30 minutes total baking time.
  12. 12
    Remove from oven, let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 947.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 35.6g55%
Saturated Fat 8.8g45%
Cholesterol 304.9mg102%
Sodium 276.3mg12%
Total Carbohydrate 36.9g13%
Dietary Fiber 1.0g4%
Sugars 1.2g
Protein 105.1g211%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Saffron threads should be rinsed briefly or soaked in a little warm water before adding to maximize flavor and color release.

For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of green chiles or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

If you do not have an oven-safe pot, you can simmer the dish on the stovetop over low heat, covered, for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a richer flavor and juicier texture.

Keywords: saffron, chicken, rice, one-pot, mediterranean, dinner, easy, weeknight, pepper, tomato sauce, chili, turmeric, garlic, onion, olive oil, broth, baked, hearty, comfort food, family meal
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/saffron-chicken-with-rice-2/