Chicken Pilau with Vegetable Raita & Tomato Relish – A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Meal

Chicken Pilau with Vegetable Raita & Tomato Relish

Chicken pilau is one of those timeless dishes that instantly brings warmth to the table. Aromatic rice infused with spices, tender chicken pieces cooked in rich broth, and layers of flavor that build slowly with every bite. When paired with a refreshing vegetable raita and a tangy tomato relish, the entire plate becomes a complete and satisfying experience. This recipe balances spice, creaminess, acidity, and comfort in the most delicious way.

What makes this pilau special is the caramelized onions and chicken drippings that stain the rice beautifully, giving it both color and depth. The dish is hearty yet elegant, perfect for family gatherings or weekend indulgence.

Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Pilau

2 chicken legs (or your preferred cuts)
2 cups basmati rice, washed and soaked for 20 minutes
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger paste
2 tbsp pilau spice mix (or: cumin, coriander, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper)
1 tsp turmeric (optional for color)
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 bay leaf
4 cups chicken broth or water
Salt to taste
3 tbsp cooking oil

For the Vegetable Raita

1 cup plain yogurt
½ cucumber, diced
1 carrot, grated or thinly sliced
Salt & black pepper to taste
½ tsp cumin powder
1 tsp lemon juice

For the Tomato Relish

1 tomato, chopped
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp chili flakes
Pinch of sugar
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil in a large pot on medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs and sear until browned on both sides. This step locks in flavor and creates a rich base for the pilau. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In the same pot, add the sliced onions. Cook until deeply golden and caramelized. These onions give pilau its signature flavor and the dark tones you see in the image.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Add the garlic and ginger. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Then add the pilau spices and turmeric. Let the spices toast lightly to release their oils — this is what makes the aroma irresistible.

Step 4: Build the Base

Add the chopped tomatoes and stir until they soften and form a thick base. Place the seared chicken back into the pot, coating it entirely in the spice mixture.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Drain the soaked rice and add it gently to the pot. Stir lightly so it absorbs the flavors without breaking the grains.

Step 6: Pour in Broth

Add the chicken broth (or water) and taste for salt. The liquid should taste slightly salty because the rice will absorb the seasoning as it cooks.

Bring to a light boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook on low for 18–20 minutes.

Step 7: Steam & Fluff

Once the rice is tender, turn off the heat and let the pilau steam for 5–10 minutes.
Gently fluff with a fork, being careful not to break the rice grains.

Make the Vegetable Raita

Mix yogurt with cucumber, carrot, cumin powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Stir until creamy. Chill until ready to serve — it cools the palate and complements the warm spices of the pilau beautifully.

Prepare the Tomato Relish

In a small pan, heat oil and add tomatoes, chili flakes, sugar, and salt.
Cook until thick and glossy — the perfect tangy-sweet balance for the plate.

Serve

Shape the pilau into a neat mound using a small bowl, just like in the photo.
Place the cooked chicken legs beside it. Add a spoonful of vegetable raita and a small serving of tomato relish on the side.

The result is a well-balanced dish full of aroma, flavor, and color.

Final Thought

This chicken pilau plate is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can turn into something extraordinary when prepared with care and tradition. The earthy spices, caramelized onions, and tender chicken give the rice depth, while the cool raita and tangy relish brighten every bite. Whether served for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings comfort, warmth, and satisfaction to the table.

Bon appétit! 🍽️✨