If there’s one dish I could eat on repeat, it’s this Persian Style Chicken with Rice. I made it for dinner last week, and it not only filled my home with the most mouthwatering aromas but also became an instant favorite at my table.

The chicken was so tender and flavorful, thanks to a blend of warm spices, while the rice soaked up all the wonderful flavors of the broth and seasonings. And did I mention it’s all made in one pan? Yep, less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!

From the crispy golden chicken drumsticks to the burst of pomegranate seeds on top, every bite was a beautiful mix of textures and tastes. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a small dinner, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never look at chicken and rice the same way again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pan, Minimal Cleanup

One of the best parts about this recipe is that it all comes together in a single skillet or pot. That means fewer dishes to wash afterward without skimping on flavor. Anything that saves me time and effort in the kitchen is a win in my book!

Bursting with Unique Flavors

From the warmth of cumin and coriander to the tang of sumac, the seasoning mix gives this dish depth you wouldn’t expect from a weeknight dinner. The spices elevate the chicken and rice in a way that makes it feel special and exotic.

Adaptable to Your Kitchen

Have chicken thighs instead of drumsticks? Or prefer wild rice over basmati? No problem! This recipe is incredibly flexible, and you can tweak it based on what you have at home. It’s also easy to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for an extra boost.

Impressive Yet Simple

Despite its incredible flavor and presentation, this Persian-inspired dish is easy to make. You don’t need to master any complicated techniques, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks who want something delicious without the hassle.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner with friends, this dish fits in beautifully. Its comforting flavors make it a great family meal, but it’s also sophisticated enough to wow your guests.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

6 chicken drumsticks
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon sumac
1 teaspoon ground coriander
2 cups basmati rice, rinsed and drained
1 cup chickpeas, drained
3 ½ cups chicken broth

½ cup almonds, chopped
Pomegranate seeds (optional)
Fresh cilantro (optional)

Variations

Chicken: Swap drumsticks for bone-in thighs or even chicken wings for a different spin.
Rice: Feel free to use jasmine, wild, or long-grain white rice if you don’t have basmati. Each variety offers a slightly different flavor and texture.
Vegetables: Add chopped spinach, peas, or even bell peppers to make the dish even more wholesome.
Spices: Experiment with a pinch of cinnamon, turmeric, or even saffron for another layer of depth.

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: For cooking everything in one pot, from browning chicken to finishing in the oven.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping onions, garlic, and almonds.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir and mix the ingredients without cleaning multiple utensils.
Measuring Cups/Spoons: To ensure the perfect spice ratios every time.
Foil or Lid: To cover the dish during cooking for tender, juicy results.

How to Make the Recipe Persian Style Chicken with Rice?

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and comforting textures, this Persian-style chicken with rice is the perfect choice.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken 🥣

Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks with paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Rub the seasonings well into the chicken to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 2: Sear Until Golden 🍗

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken drumsticks and sear them for about 5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. Once done, remove the drumsticks and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base 🧄

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 3 minutes until they’re softened and aromatic. Stir in the cumin, sumac, and coriander, and toast the spices for about 1 minute to release their fragrance.

Step 4: Add the Rice 🍚

Mix the rinsed basmati rice into the skillet, ensuring it’s well-coated with the spices. Toast the rice lightly for an additional minute to enhance its nutty flavor.

Step 5: Simmer and Nestle 🥘

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the chickpeas. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Nestle the seared drumsticks into the rice, ensuring they’re partially submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for about 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly and the rice to cook through.

Step 6: Finish in the Oven 🔥

Sprinkle the chopped almonds over the top and transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake the dish uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy, with golden almonds adding a nice crunch.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve 🎉

Once the dish is out of the oven, top it with pomegranate seeds and fresh cilantro for a colorful and fresh finish. Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Chicken: Allow your chicken to sit out for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and juicier meat.
Don’t Skip Searing: Getting the perfect golden crust on the chicken adds an incredible amount of flavor to the final dish.
Toast the Spices: Briefly toasting the spices in the pan deepens their aroma and enhances the dish’s flavors.
Fluff the Rice: Give the rice a light fluff with a fork before serving for the perfect texture.
Watch the Broth: Add a little more broth if the skillet looks like it’s drying out before the rice is done.

How to Serve Persian Style Chicken with Rice?

For a truly gorgeous presentation, garnish your Persian chicken and rice with jewel-like pomegranate seeds and a sprinkle of brightly colored cilantro. Serve it straight out of the skillet for a rustic, comforting feel, or transfer it to a stylish platter for a more elegant display.

Pair it with a creamy cucumber yogurt salad, or keep it simple with a fresh leafy green salad. Whether it’s for a quiet family meal or a hosting event, this dish brings color and vibrancy to your table.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional value for a serving of Persian-style chicken with rice. These estimates may vary slightly depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used.

Calories: 520 per serving
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 20g

This balanced breakdown makes it a satisfying meal that offers a great mix of energy, nutrients, and bold flavors!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead
You can prep the spice mix and marinate the chicken overnight for an even deeper flavor. Remove the chicken from the fridge 20 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
Refrigeration
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out.
Freezing
Once the dish cools completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for a meal that tastes just as delicious the second time!

Persian-style chicken with rice is a one-pan masterpiece of flavors and textures. It’s comfort food at its finest, with minimal effort and maximum taste. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a regular favorite in your home!