Start by marinating the chicken pieces. In a bowl, combine your favorite marinade ingredients, such as garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and mix well to ensure they are evenly coated. Leave the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
Chicken, Garlic, Ginger, Spices, Olive oil, Salt and pepper
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch. In a separate pan, heat some olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir well to coat the grains with the oil or butter. Pour in the appropriate amount of chicken stock or water and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for the specific cooking time for the rice you are using, usually around 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
Onion, Chicken stock
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, and place the chicken pieces in the skillet. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. This will typically take around 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onions, garlic, and any additional vegetables you desire, such as bell peppers or carrots. Sauté the vegetables until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices that may have accumulated on the plate. Add any additional seasonings and spices to enhance the flavors of the dish. Mix everything together and cook for a few more minutes until the flavors meld together.
Carrots, Peas
Now it's time to combine the rice and chicken mixture. Gently fold in the cooked rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the skillet. Continue to cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Rice
Once the chicken pilaf is cooked and the flavors have melded together, it is ready to be served. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.