Easy chicken and onion pilaf

Easy Chicken and Onion Pilaf combines tender chicken broth with sautéed onions and fluffy rice for a comforting meal. This straightforward dish is perfect for weeknight dining.

21 Dec 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter
1 cup onion
1 cup white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 dash salt

Easy Chicken and Onion Pilaf is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that's perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken broth, aromatic onions, and fluffy rice makes this dish a family favorite.

Instructions:

1. Prep Work:
- Begin by finely chopping the onion.

2. Sautéing the Onion:
- In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and starts to brown lightly, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

3. Toasting the Rice:
- Once the onion is sautéed, add the white rice to the pot.
- Stir the rice well to coat it with the butter and onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly. This step enhances the flavor of the rice.

4. Adding the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth and add a dash of salt to the pot.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

5. Cooking the Pilaf:
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

6. Resting the Pilaf:
- After the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step allows the rice to steam and ensures it's perfectly fluffy.

7. Fluff and Serve:
- Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Enjoy your Easy Chicken and Onion Pilaf as a delicious side dish or a main course!

With minimal ingredients and effort, you've just created a delicious and hearty Easy Chicken and Onion Pilaf. This dish is not only filling but also packed with flavor. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish to complement any protein. Enjoy!

Easy chicken and onion pilaf FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the pilaf?

The pilaf will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. This includes approximately 18-20 minutes of simmering after bringing the mixture to a boil.

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

The recipe calls for white rice, which is ideal. Long-grain varieties like Basmati or Jasmine can also work well, providing different flavors and textures.

Can I store leftovers, and how should I do it?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth or water with added seasonings can be used as substitutes, although this may affect the flavor slightly.

How do I know when the rice is done cooking?

The rice is done cooking when it is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. You can check by tasting a few grains; they should be fluffy and not crunchy.

Tips:

- For added flavor, sauté the onions until they are caramelized before adding the rice.

- You can use chicken stock instead of broth for a richer taste.

- Feel free to add a pinch of your favorite herbs or spices, such as thyme or paprika, for extra flavor.

- Ensure that you do not lift the lid while the rice is cooking to keep the steam in and the rice fluffy.

- For a more robust meal, consider adding cooked chicken pieces or vegetables like peas and carrots.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 170kcal
Protein 3.67g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 0.93g
Sugar 1.79g
Fat 4.12g

Easy chicken and onion pilaf