Ingredients

3 lbs broiler-fryer chickens , cut up
salt & pepper
1/4 cup butter or 1/4 cup ghee
1 large onion , chopped
1/2 cup dried apricot , chopped
1/2 cup raisins , sultanas
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon saffron thread
2 tablespoons water
4 cups cooked rice
Iranian Chicken with Rice (Morgh Polou) is a traditional Persian dish that is often served at special occasions such as weddings and holidays. It is a one-pot meal that is made with fragrant basmati rice, chicken, and a mixture of dried fruit and spices. The dish is cooked slowly and covered in foil to create a fluffy interior and crispy exterior. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser for everyone. This dish can be served alone or with a side of vegetables such as roasted carrots or green beans.

Instructions

1.Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper and set it aside.
2.In a large skillet, melt the butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3.Add the chopped apricots, raisins, and cinnamon to the skillet. Mix well.
4.Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 20 minutes until the chicken is golden brown on both sides.
5.Preheat the oven to 350°F. Dissolve saffron thread in the 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl.
6.Spread half of the cooked rice in a baking dish. Top with the cooked chicken and the onion and fruit mixture. Pour the saffron mixture over the chicken. Cover everything with the rest of the rice.
7.Pour the 1/4 cup of water over the rice. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes.
8.After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown. Serve hot.

PROS

Iranian Chicken with Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that is packed with protein and fiber.
It is a great way to introduce new spices to your diet and can be easily customized with different fruits and nuts.

CONS

This dish can be high in calories and sodium, depending on the amount of butter used and the type of rice chosen.
It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chicken is an excellent source of protein, which helps to build and repair tissues in the body. The dried apricots and raisins add fiber to the dish, which can help to prevent digestive problems. Saffron has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and may help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of PMS.

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