Name: Mediterranean Chicken with Saffron Rice & Caramelized Onions
Prep time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 1 cup basmati rice; 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup golden raisins; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 tsp saffron threads; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground cardamom; 1/8 tsp ground cloves; 1 dried lime (or substitute zest of 1 lime if unavailable); 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds; 1 3/4 cups chicken broth; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Mediterranean Chicken with Saffron Rice & Caramelized Onions

VanillaPumpkin6908

This Mediterranean-inspired dish brings together the warmth of aromatic spices, the luxurious hue of saffron, and the sweet bite of golden raisins. Slow-caramelized onions lend deep flavor and a hint of natural sweetness, while toasted almonds and fresh parsley provide color and crunch. The rice, delicately scented with saffron and spiked with dried lime, is a nod to Omani culinary tradition, layering flavors and textures for a truly memorable meal. This recipe is perfect for a sunny Minnesota evening, offering both comfort and bright, exotic flair.

Ingredients

Instructions

Steep saffron threads in 2 tbsp hot water for 5 minutes to release their color and aroma.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring often, until deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 12-15 minutes. Transfer onions to a plate and set aside.
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove to rest, tented with foil.
In a medium saucepan, combine rice, saffron water, chicken broth, dried lime, and golden raisins. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed. Remove dried lime. Fluff rice with a fork.
Slice chicken and serve over saffron rice. Top with caramelized onions, toasted almonds, and fresh parsley. Drizzle with a little olive oil if desired.