We all know how hectic weeknights can be. After conquering all of your chores for the day, running some errands, and maybe getting some exercise in – before you know it, it’s bedtime!

The last thing anyone would want to do after a long day is prepare a tedious, complicated meal. Wouldn't it be wonderful if you only had to dedicate half an hour of your time to create an enticing meal that you and your loved ones would enjoy?

Well, this recipe could not be easier. The little effort you do put in will be well worth it! Pop this in the oven and you’ll be indulging in juicy chicken bits and buttery rice in no time. Introducing the all-in-one chicken pilaf bake.


Here are the ingredients you need:

1. Three green shallots, thinly sliced
2. 270 grams of basmati rice
3. 40 grams of butter, melted
4. Two garlic cloves, crushed
5. Three cups of chicken stock
6. Half a teaspoon of ground coriander
7. Half a teaspoon of ground cumin
8. Half a teaspoon of paprika
9. Chicken thigh cutlets
10. Half a lemon, cut into wedges
11. Two tablespoons of chopped coriander


Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius, fan forced. Reserve some of the shallots for later. Combine the rice, butter, garlic and remaining shallot in a baking tray. Then, gradually pour the chicken stock over the rice mixture. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

In a small bowl, add the ground coriander, cumin, and paprika before stirring. Sprinkle the chicken with the spice mix. Place the lemon wedges near the chicken bits.

Pop the tray in the oven for 25 minutes. Use a skewer or chopstick to stir the rice between the chicken bits and around the edges of the tray every now and then while the dish cooks.

Bake for 20 to 25 more minutes or until the chicken stock is fully absorbed and the rice is cooked perfectly. Top it all off with chopped coriander and the reserved shallot to serve.

And there you have it, folks! A tasty and nutritious dinner idea for when you want something quick and easy.