No image available

Spicy Kenyan Pilau Rice Bowl with Grilled Chicken and Roasted Vegetables

A flavorful kenyan lunch perfect for standard eaters - made for visual appeal and culinary depth.

🕒 (Prep, Cook, Total) - Prep Time: 30 minutes - Cook Time: 15 minutes - Total Time: 45 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6 servings
🔥 Difficulty: Intermediate
🌎 Cuisine: Kenyan

Allergens

Gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, egg-free

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1/4 cup chopped scallions

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the basmati rice. Cook for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened. Add ginger, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom to the pan and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Stir in the parboiled rice and salt to taste, then add the fresh cilantro and mix well. Remove from heat and set aside. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then marinate them in olive oil for at least 30 minutes. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium high heat. Grill the chicken until cooked through, about 5 7 minutes per side. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing. In another pan, heat a little oil and cook the bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and corn kernels over medium heat until slightly tender, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Assemble the rice bowl by dividing the pilau rice among 6 bowls, adding a few slices of grilled chicken on top, and finishing with a generous helping of roasted vegetables. Garnish with chopped scallions.

Chef’s Insight

Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences.

Notes

Fresh herbs and spices enhance the flavors of this dish, so use high-quality ingredients for best results.

Cultural or Historical Background

Pilau rice is a popular dish in Kenyan cuisine, often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings.