Pilav (gagauz-style Chicken Pilaf)

Pilav is a traditional dish in Gagauz cuisine, and this Gagauz-style Chicken Pilaf is a delicious and comforting one-pot meal. It's made with tender chicken, fragrant rice, and a blend of aromatic spices.

Pilav (gagauz-style Chicken Pilaf)

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs (700g) chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Cook for a few minutes until the spices are fragrant.
  4. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the spices and chicken mixture.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
40g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Large pot Cutting board Knife Measuring cups and spoons Wooden spoon

Tools

Fork

Serving suggestions

Serve the Gagauz-style Chicken Pilaf with a side of yogurt and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

For extra flavor, you can add a handful of raisins or chopped dried apricots to the pilaf during the last few minutes of cooking.

Cost

$15