A flavorful and aromatic Afghan-inspired dish combining tender chicken with spiced rice, sweet carrots, and raisins.
Place the chicken pieces and one onion, quartered, in a large pot with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
Skim off any foam that forms on the surface of the water for a clearer broth.
Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth and discard the onion. Reserve the broth.
Use a fine mesh strainer to ensure the broth is clear.
Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown, seasoning with salt.
Ensure the chicken pieces are dry before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
In a separate pot, bring a large amount of water to a boil. Add salt and the basmati rice. Cook for 8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.
In a frying pan, sauté the second onion, finely chopped, in butter until golden brown. Add cardamom, cumin, black pepper, and saffron dissolved in a tablespoon of warm water. Stir well.
Cook the spices gently to release their aroma without burning.
Combine the cooked rice with the spice mix and a cup of the reserved broth. Layer the rice and chicken in a buttered casserole dish.
Ensure the rice is evenly coated with the spice mix for consistent flavor.
In a frying pan, sauté the carrots cut into matchsticks in butter until slightly softened. Add the raisins and cook for another minute.
Do not overcook the carrots; they should retain some crunch.
Spread the carrot and raisin mixture over the rice and chicken. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for 35 minutes.
Ensure the dish is tightly covered to retain moisture during baking.
Garnish with toasted pistachios before serving. Enjoy your Afghan-Style Chicken and Rice Delight!
Serve with a side of yogurt or salad for a complete meal.