A hearty one-pot rice dish with tender chicken, sweet carrots, aromatic spices, and fragrant garlic.
Russian Chicken Plov is a comforting dish that combines basmati rice with juicy chicken thighs, sautéed onions, and carrots. Cumin and paprika give the dish a warm, savoury flavour, while bay leaves add a subtle herbal aroma to the chicken stock.
The rice cooks directly over the seasoned chicken and vegetables, absorbing the flavours as it becomes tender and fluffy. Whole garlic cloves infuse the dish with a rich aroma, while fresh dill or parsley adds a refreshing finish. It is an excellent choice for family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
750 g basmati rice (4 cups), soaked for 30 minutes
1 kg chicken thighs
3 tbsp oil
2 onions, chopped
3 carrots, cut into thin strips
4 whole garlic cloves
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
2 bay leaves
Salt, to taste
5½ cups chicken stock
Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
Method
Wash and Soak the Rice
Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain well and keep aside.
Brown the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and brown them in the hot oil. Add the chopped onions and carrots, then cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Spices and Stock
Stir in the cumin, paprika, black pepper, salt, and bay leaves. Pour in the chicken stock and allow the mixture to simmer for 15 minutes so the chicken and vegetables develop a rich flavour.
Layer the Rice and Garlic
Spread the drained rice evenly over the chicken mixture without stirring it in. Place the whole garlic cloves into the rice, distributing them across the pot.
Cover and Cook
Cover the pot and cook over low heat for approximately 20 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Keep the lid closed as much as possible during cooking.
Rest and Garnish
Turn off the heat and leave the pot covered for 10 minutes. Remove the bay leaves, fluff the rice gently, and garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.
Serve
Serve Russian Chicken Plov hot with cucumber salad, plain yogurt, and pickled vegetables. These refreshing accompaniments balance the warm spices and hearty flavours of the chicken and rice.