Copy Chicken Pulao (Pakistani Recipe)

Chicken Pulao (Pakistani Recipe) is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. If you’re just beginning to explore Pakistani cuisine, this recipe, with minimal hands-on time and straightforward techniques, is the ideal starting point.

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Commonly referred to as Yakhni Pulao, this Persian-origin recipe is also known as a rice pilaf. In Pakistani cuisine, chicken pulao holds a special place and is served at family gatherings, weddings, and everyday dinners alike. 

Unlike biryani, which involves layering partially cooked rice and meat, pulao is a simpler dish. Everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors from the chicken and spices.

For a cozy weeknight meal, I like to serve it with cilantro mint chutney, cucumber raita, and kachumber. However, when I’m cooking for company, I like to pair it with a traditional curry, like kofta curry, chicken korma, or chicken curry.