Chicken paprika and rice pilaf with raisins and fresh coriander

Chicken paprika with rice pilaf, raisins, and fresh coriander

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the culinary world, where every ingredient has a story to tell! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a recipe that combines the warm and comforting flavors of chicken paprika with a delicious rice pilaf enriched with sweet raisins and fresh coriander. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a family meal.

A brief history: Paprika is a spice that has won the hearts of many chefs around the world, with deep roots in traditional cuisines. Combined with chicken, paprika not only provides a vibrant color but also a deep flavor, perfect for whetting the appetite. Pilafs are also a versatile dish found in many cultures, each with its unique variations. However, today we will focus on a recipe that blends tradition with a touch of innovation, offering you an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients you will need:
- 6-8 pieces of chicken thighs (skinless) or chicken breast (about 500 g)
- 1/2 squeezed lemon
- 2-3 crushed garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon of hot paprika
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
- 3-4 tablespoons of plain yogurt
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 300-400 g of basmati rice (ideal for achieving a perfect pilaf)
- 1 Knorr cube (vegetable)
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped raisins
- A few fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped

Preparing the chicken paprika:

1. Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, crushed garlic, sweet paprika, hot paprika, and cinnamon. This marinade will add deep flavor and warmth to your dish.

2. Place the chicken pieces in a dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover the dish with cling film and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, preferably. If you are short on time, 20 minutes will suffice to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

3. In a grill pan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Place the chicken pieces and sear them on both sides, turning occasionally. When the meat is almost cooked, add 3-4 tablespoons of plain yogurt, which will help tenderize the meat and add a touch of freshness.

Preparing the rice pilaf:

4. In a separate pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over low heat until it becomes translucent. This step is essential for bringing out the sweetness of the onion in the pilaf.

5. Add the washed rice and the Knorr cube, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. When the rice becomes slightly translucent, gradually add warm water (about 1 cup to start), stirring gently. It is important to cook the pilaf over low heat and uncovered, stirring frequently and adding water gradually until the rice is cooked al dente. Avoid making it mushy!

6. When the rice is almost cooked, add the chopped raisins and freshly chopped coriander. These ingredients will add a sweet and aromatic contrast, turning the pilaf into a perfect accompaniment for your chicken.

Serving and suggestions:

Once the chicken is evenly cooked and the pilaf is perfectly cooked, serve them together on a platter. You can garnish with a few fresh coriander leaves for an attractive appearance and additional aroma. A large part of the charm of this dish comes from the contrast of textures and flavors: the tender and aromatic chicken alongside the fluffy, sweet, and spiced pilaf.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh tomato and cucumber salad or a yogurt and mint sauce. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or lemonade with lemon and mint, will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits and calories:

A serving of chicken paprika with pilaf (about 250 g of chicken and 100 g of pilaf) contains approximately 600 calories. This is a balanced meal, rich in protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the rice, and fiber from the vegetables. The yogurt added to the dish contributes to better digestion and provides beneficial probiotics for the body.

Possible variations:

If you want to experiment, you can replace basmati rice with quinoa or brown rice for a healthier dish. You can also add vegetables such as carrots or peas to the pilaf to diversify its flavor and add more vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is an excellent alternative, but make sure to cook it to the correct temperature to avoid drying out.

2. What type of rice is best for pilaf?
Basmati rice is ideal for pilaf, as it retains its shape and texture, but you can also use jasmine rice or long-grain rice.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like spicy food, you can add more hot paprika or a chili sauce to the marinade.

4. Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead and freeze it. The pilaf can be cooked a few hours in advance and reheated before serving.

I hope this recipe inspires you to cook in your style and bring a touch of joy to every meal. Enjoy your meal!