Chicken and vegetable pilaf

Chicken and vegetable pilaf is a hearty one-pot dish featuring seared chicken thighs with zucchini, tomatoes, and peas cooked in fragrant rice. This easy meal combines key flavors for a nutritious family dinner.

20 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp olive oil
4 chicken thighs
1 onion
2 large zucchini
2 garlic cloves
4 tomatoes
1 cup white rice
2 cups chicken gravy
1 cup peas

Chicken and vegetable pilaf is a delicious, one-pot meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. This dish combines tender chicken thighs with a variety of vegetables, including zucchini, tomatoes, and peas, all cooked together with fragrant white rice. Perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option, this pilaf is flavorful and easy to prepare.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the onion.
- Dice the zucchini.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the tomatoes into small pieces.

2. Sear the Chicken:
- In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs and sear until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add the Vegetables:
- Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until they begin to break down.

5. Add the Rice and Liquids:
- Stir in 1 cup of white rice, coating it with the vegetable mixture.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken gravy and bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid.

7. Add the Peas and Chicken:
- Stir in 1 cup of peas.
- Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot.
- Cover and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the peas are heated through.

8. Serve:
- Fluff the rice with a fork and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve the Chicken and Vegetable Pilaf hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Chicken and vegetable pilaf is a hearty and nutritious meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice creates a dish that is both flavorful and comforting. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe for a wholesome dinner any night of the week.

Chicken and vegetable pilaf FAQ:

What is the baking time for chicken and vegetable pilaf?

This dish is not baked but rather cooked in a pot. The total cooking time includes 15-20 minutes of simmering after adding rice and liquid, plus an additional 5-10 minutes after adding peas and chicken.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be considered fully cooked. You can check this using a meat thermometer.

Can I substitute the chicken thighs with other meats?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, especially for tofu.

How should I store leftovers of chicken and vegetable pilaf?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What type of rice can I use for this pilaf?

While the recipe calls for white rice, you can use other varieties like jasmine or basmati. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount according to the type of rice used.

Cooking Tips:

- Preheat your pan: Before adding the olive oil, make sure your pan is preheated. This will help in evenly cooking the chicken thighs and prevent them from sticking.

- Cut vegetables uniformly: To ensure even cooking, chop the zucchini and onion into uniform pieces. This will help them cook at the same rate, maintaining a balanced texture throughout the dish.

- Use warm chicken gravy: Adding warm chicken gravy instead of cold will help maintain the cooking temperature, ensuring that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs flavors better.

- Simmer gently: Once all the ingredients are combined, lower the heat and let the pilaf simmer gently. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

- Rest before serving: Allow the pilaf to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid and makes the dish easier to serve.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 570kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 11g
Fat 22g

Chicken and vegetable pilaf