Hello, food enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for a timeless and flavorful dish Chicken Plov! As a professional chef and nutritionist, I’ve crafted this recipe to bring you a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Delve into the rich flavors of Eastern Europe with this traditional plov. Featuring tender chicken and aromatic rice cooked with a special blend of spices, this dish is a hearty and comforting meal that fills the kitchen with its enticing aroma. Let’s dive into the health benefits of each key ingredient.

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Ingredients and Their Health Benefits

Before masking hearty chicken plov, let’s explore the benefits of the ingredients and why they are so good in there.

Chicken thighs

Chicken thighs are a great source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals. They provide iron and zinc, which are important for immune function, and B vitamins, which support energy metabolism. While slightly higher in fat than chicken breast, chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and remain tender and juicy when cooked.

Jasmine rice

Jasmine rice is a fragrant, long-grain rice that provides essential energy due to its high carbohydrate content. It is easy to digest and can be a good source of B vitamins, particularly thiamine and niacin, which are essential for energy metabolism. Jasmine rice is also low in fat and contains a moderate amount of protein, making it a balanced carbohydrate option.

Carrots

Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. Carrots are also rich in fiber, which aids in digestion, and antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage.

Onions

Onions are rich in antioxidants and compounds that have been linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of cancer, improved heart health, and enhanced immune function. They are a good source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and they also provide fiber, which aids in digestion. Onions contain sulfur compounds that can help reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure.

Garlic

Garlic is known for its potent medicinal properties, which are attributed to the sulfur compounds that form when garlic is chopped, crushed, or chewed. These compounds have been shown to boost the function of the immune system. Garlic is also beneficial for heart health, as it can help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, garlic has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can support overall health.

Olive oil

Olive oil is a healthy fat that is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. A 15ml serving of olive oil can provide anti-inflammatory properties and improve heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels. It is also a good source of vitamin E, which is important for skin health and overall immune function. Olive oil’s healthy fats are essential for brain health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Cumin

Cumin is a spice that is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. It has been traditionally used to aid digestion and improve gut health. Cumin also contains iron, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood cells, and it can help boost the immune system.

Coriander

Coriander seeds are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. They can help improve digestion and alleviate stomach discomfort. Coriander is also rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Star Anise

Star anise is a spice that is known for its antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It is a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Star anise also contains compounds like shikimic acid, which is used in the production of antiviral medications.

Cardamom

Cardamom is a spice with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help improve digestion, reduce nausea, and alleviate stomach discomfort. Cardamom is also known for its ability to lower blood pressure, improve blood circulation, and support heart health.

Step-by-Step Recipe: chicken Plov

Now we are ready to make this simple yet delicious dish! Get all your ingredients ready and let’s roll!

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mixture

In a small bowl, combine cumin, coriander, star anise, and cardamom. Pound well to blend the spices together and set aside.

Step 2: Slice vegetables

Slice your carrots and onions and heat your skillet well.

To master how to slice your vegetables, check my post about How to dice carrots and How to cut onions.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large cast iron pot over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken thighs and cook until browned evenly about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, slice carrots and finely chop onions. Add the carrots to the pot and cook for about 2-3 minutes, then add the onions and cook until softened.

Step 5: Add the Rice and Broth

Add the prepared spice mixture to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes to release the flavors. Then add rinsed long-grain rice, and whole cloves of garlic, and mix everything. Pour in chicken broth and enough cold water to cover the rice by about 1-2 cm. Bring to a boil.

Step 6: Simmer and Steam

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Turn off the heat and let the chicken plov sit covered for 10 minutes to steam.

Step 7: Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, remove the whole garlic cloves (if desired), and transfer the chicken plov to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs before serving.

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Chicken Plov (Pilaf)

Recipe by Ksenija PecerskaCourse: DinnerDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

550

kcal

Chicken Plov is a hearty and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken with fragrant rice and vegetables, typical of Eastern European and Central Asian cuisines. It’s perfect for a filling family meal.

Ingredients

300g chicken breast, cubed
300g long-grain rice, rinsed and drained
500ml chicken broth
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, julienned
2 cloves of garlic, whole
40 ml olive oil
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 coriander
1/2 cardamom
1/2 star anise
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley

Directions

Spice Mixture: In a small bowl, combine cumin, coriander, star anise, and cardamom. Pound well to blend the spices and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large cast iron pot over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken thighs and cook until browned evenly about 3 minutes.
Add Vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, slice carrots and finely chop 1 large onion. Add the carrots to the pot and cook for about 2-3 minutes, then add the onions and cook until softened.
Add Rice and Broth: Add the prepared spice mixture to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes to release the flavors. Then add rinsed long-grain rice, and whole cloves of garlic, and mix everything together. Pour in 500ml of chicken broth and enough cold water to cover the rice by about 1-2 cm. Bring to a boil.
Simmer and Steam: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Turn off the heat and let the plov sit covered for 10-15 minutes to steam. Fluff the rice with a fork, remove the whole garlic cloves (if desired), and transfer the plov to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

Fat: 22g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 70g

Customization Ideas

Tailor your chicken plov to your taste:

Meat Options: Substitute chicken thighs with beef, lamb, or pork for a different flavor profile.
Rice Substitutes: Use basmati, long-grain rice, or brown rice as a fragrant alternative.
Add more spices: For spice lovers, add red hot chili peppers, cajun pepper, or some smoked paprika.

Changing time might vary the time of cooking.

FAQ’s

What is Plov made of?

Plov, also known as pilaf, is a traditional dish made with rice, meat (typically lamb, beef, or chicken), and a variety of vegetables and spices. The main ingredients often include:

Rice: Long-grain or basmati rice is commonly used.
Meat: Chicken, lamb, or beef cut into cubes or chunks.
Vegetables: Carrots, onions, and sometimes garlic.
Spices: Cumin, coriander, star anise, cardamom, and sometimes saffron for color and aroma.
Broth: Chicken or beef broth is used to cook the rice.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with beef, lamb, or pork. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.

What can I substitute for long-grain rice?

You can use basmati or jasmine rice as a substitute. These types of rice have a similar texture and flavor that work well in plov.

What is the difference between pilaf and plov?

The terms “pilaf” and “plov” refer to similar dishes but have regional variations:

Pilaf: This term is commonly used in Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and South Asian cuisines. Pilaf generally refers to a dish where rice is cooked with broth and a mixture of spices and often includes meat and vegetables. It can be prepared in various ways, including baking or cooking on the stovetop.
Plov: This term is specific to Central Asian cuisine, particularly Uzbek cuisine. Plov is usually prepared in a specific way where the meat is cooked first, followed by vegetables and then rice. It is typically cooked in a large, heavy pot like a kazan or a cast-iron pot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Plov is known for its rich, aromatic flavors and is often served on special occasions.

What is Plov food in English?

In English, “plov” is often referred to as “pilaf.” Both terms describe a similar dish of rice cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices. While “plov” is the term used in Central Asian countries like Uzbekistan, “pilaf” is more commonly used in Western and Middle Eastern contexts. Regardless of the name, this dish is known for its flavorful and aromatic qualities, making it a beloved comfort food in many cultures.

Wrap-Up

A Classic Comfort Dish is a perfect blend of flavors and nutrients, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner to share with family or a comforting dish to enjoy on a cozy evening, this chicken plov is sure to satisfy. Experiment with different ingredients to make it your own, and enjoy the rich, aromatic taste of this classic chicken plov.

If you loved this chicken omelet recipe, check out more of my healthy and delicious recipes on the blog. And if you are looking for more recipes with chicken, take a look at my recent post about high-protein meals! Happy cooking and eating!

Together, let’s continue transforming our health and palate, one bite at a time!