Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf)

Discover the flavors of authentic Ukrainian Chicken Plov, a delicious and easy rice pilaf recipe made with tender chicken, aromatic rice, grated carrots, and a rich, flavorful blend of spices. This comforting one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or any special occasion. With simple ingredients like chicken breast, rice, onions, and ketchup, you can create a savory, satisfying dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly tasty.

This Ukrainian Chicken Plov recipe is packed with flavor, featuring a unique combination of chicken and rice that’s sure to become a family favorite. With options for both a rice cooker or stovetop preparation, you can customize the cooking process based on your preferences. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of pickled vegetables, cucumber salad, or a tangy yogurt-based dip.

Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd, this hearty chicken plov is an easy, comforting, and filling recipe. Ideal for those who love simple, flavorful, and wholesome meals. Make this Ukrainian Chicken Plov your go-to recipe for dinner tonight!

Ingredients:

• 1 large chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch x 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups white rice, rinsed well and drained
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 1/2 cups water or low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 Tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until golden and cooked through.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the chicken and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the grated carrot and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add 2 Tbsp of butter and 1/4 cup of ketchup, mixing everything together until the butter melts and is fully combined.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and season with 1 tsp of salt, 1/8 tsp of black pepper, and 1/8 tsp of cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
6. Transfer the mixture to a rice cooker, add 2 1/2 cups of water or chicken broth, and season to taste if needed. Set the rice cooker to the “White rice” setting. OR If you don’t have a rice cooker, you can cook the rice in a pot with a tight-fitting lid. Add the ingredients to the pot, cover, and cook over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Once cooked, fluff the rice, serve, and enjoy your flavorful Ukrainian Chicken Plov!

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Tips

• Rice Tip: Be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
• Flavor Boost: If you want a deeper flavor, try using chicken broth instead of water for added richness.
• Chopping Chicken: For evenly cooked pieces, cut the chicken into uniform sizes. This will ensure it cooks evenly and quickly.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
• Rice Substitution: You can use basmati rice or jasmine rice for a more fragrant version of plov.
• Spices: If you like a more robust flavor, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of cumin for a slight earthiness.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make Ukrainian Chicken Plov ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving.

Can I freeze Ukrainian Chicken Plov? Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a light salad to complement the richness of the plov.
• Pair with a yogurt-based dipping sauce or a cool cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ukrainian Chicken Plov is a comforting, one-pot meal that’s both flavorful and filling. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic rice, and spices creates a savory dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. It’s simple, easy to prepare, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.