Cauliflower and chicken pilaf

Cauliflower and Chicken Pilaf combines tender chicken, basmati rice, and fresh cauliflower with aromatic spices. This one-pot dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.

18 Dec 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup basmati rice
1 onion
1 cauliflower
1 lb chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
2 red hot chili peppers
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp cardamom
3 cups chicken gravy
1/2 cup peas
1/2 cup coriander leaves

Cauliflower and Chicken Pilaf is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken breasts, aromatic basmati rice, and fresh cauliflower with a blend of warm spices and vibrant vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special meal for gatherings. Follow these steps for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.
- Peel and finely chop the onion.
- Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop the red hot chili peppers, discarding the seeds for less heat if preferred.
- Roughly chop the coriander leaves.

2. Cook the Chicken and Onion:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.

3. Cook the Cauliflower:
- In a separate large pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cauliflower florets and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and brown slightly, about 8-10 minutes.

4. Combine and Spice:
- Add the chopped red chili peppers, turmeric powder, and cardamom to the skillet with the chicken and onions.
- Stir well to coat the chicken and onions with the spices.
- Pour in the chicken gravy, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Add Rice and Simmer:
- Once the gravy is simmering, add the drained rice to the skillet.
- Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
- Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for about 15 minutes.

6. Add Peas and Cauliflower:
- After 15 minutes, uncover the skillet, and gently stir in the peas and the cooked cauliflower.
- Cover again, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the majority of the liquid.

7. Finish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it stand, covered, for another 5 minutes.
- Fluff the pilaf with a fork, mixing in the chopped coriander leaves.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

8. Serve:
- Transfer the cauliflower and chicken pilaf to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional coriander leaves if desired.

Your Cauliflower and Chicken Pilaf is now ready to serve! Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy this hearty and delicious dish with your family and friends. It's a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and fragrant spices sure to become a favorite.

Cauliflower and chicken pilaf FAQ:

What is the baking time for this pilaf recipe?

This pilaf doesn’t require baking; it is cooked on the stovetop. After combining the ingredients, simmer it for about 15 minutes with the lid on, followed by an additional 5-10 minutes after adding peas and cauliflower until the rice is tender.

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for basmati rice, but note that the cooking time will increase. Brown rice typically takes about 30-40 minutes to cook, so adjust the liquid quantity and simmering time accordingly.

How should I store leftovers of the cauliflower and chicken pilaf?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and warm on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I substitute for chicken gravy if I don't have any?

If you don't have chicken gravy, you can use low-sodium chicken broth as an alternative. You may need to add some flour or cornstarch to thicken the mixture if desired.

How can I tell when the rice is done cooking in this pilaf?

The rice is done when it is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. It should be fluffy and not overly sticky. If it seems undercooked after the standard time, you can add a little more liquid and cover it to cook for a few additional minutes.

Tips:

- Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and improve the texture.

- Cut the cauliflower into small, uniform florets to ensure even cooking.

- For a spicier kick, you can adjust the amount of red hot chili peppers to your taste or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

- Use a heavy-bottomed pan or skillet to avoid burning the spices and to ensure even cooking.

- Let the pilaf rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Fresh or frozen peas can be used; if using frozen peas, no need to thaw them before adding to the dish.

- Garnish with extra coriander leaves for added freshness and a pop of color.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 220kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 4.55g
Sugar 6g
Fat 10g

Cauliflower and chicken pilaf