Spiced Pilau Rice with Chicken and Peas

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-24 · Updated 2026-04-24

Fragrant basmati rice simmered with tender chicken and peas in a warm pilau masala blend, a staple Tanzanian comfort dish with Indian-inspired spices. This African-inspired rice and grain recipe (gluten free), ready in about 45 minutes, pairs basmati rice, chicken thighs, onion for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a quick salad. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups, rinsed basmati rice
• 1.5 lbs, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces chicken thighs
• 1 medium, finely chopped onion
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp (or 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp coriander, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp cardamom, 1/4 tsp cinnamon) pilau masala
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup, diced carrots
• 1 cup, frozen peas
• 1/4 cup (optional) raisins
• 1/2 tsp salt

The chef’s knife we’d prep this with → Best Chef's Knives for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat; add 1 medium chopped onion and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in 1 tbsp pilau masala and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then add 1.5 cups rinsed basmati rice and stir to coat evenly.
3. Step 3: Add 1.5 lbs chicken pieces, 2 cups chicken broth, 1/2 cup diced carrots, and 1/4 cup raisins (if using); bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1 cup frozen peas and cook uncovered for 5 more minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat, let rest covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and serve.