Name: Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Ingredients: 1 large chicken breast, cut into ½-inch x 1-inch pieces; 2 cups white rice, rinsed well and drained; 1 large carrot, grated; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; ¼ cup ketchup; 2 ½ cups water or low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon salt; ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Jump to Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf), a soul-satisfying, one-pot wonder that fills your kitchen with the aroma of comfort food at its best! Savory pieces of chicken and tender rice are brought together with a colorful medley of carrots and onions, and a surprising hint of richness from butter and ketchup. This dish is a staple in many Ukrainian homes, celebrated for its straightforward ingredients and bold, homey flavors that make everyone reach for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to impress friends, Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) delivers with every forkful.

Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) is in its simplicity—each ingredient has a job to do, from the moist chicken and aromatic vegetables to the fluffy, flavorful rice. These pantry essentials unite to create a dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.

Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces––the star protein that soaks up all the flavors.
White rice: Rinsing it well ensures fluffy individual grains, perfect for soaking up all the goodness.
Carrot: Grated to melt into the dish, it brings sweetness and vibrant color.
Onion: Finely chopped for a gentle background savoriness that balances the whole pilaf.
Unsalted butter: Adds creamy richness and a silky finish you can taste in every spoonful.
Ketchup: Trust the process! This splash of tangy tomato gives an irresistible depth you won’t want to skip.
Water or low-sodium chicken broth: For simmering and infusing your rice with deep, savory notes.
Salt: Essential for brightening and balancing all the flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper: A classic seasoning that adds a light, peppery kick without overpowering.
Cayenne pepper: Just a hint brings warmth and a gentle undercurrent of spice.
Olive oil (for sautéing): Ensures the chicken gets perfectly golden and juicy.

How to Make Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf)

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, pop in your chicken pieces. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they develop a gorgeous golden color on the outside and are cooked through. This first round of browning is the base layer of flavor, so don’t rush it—let the chicken get lovely and succulent.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

With the chicken looking deliciously golden, it’s time for veggies to join the party! Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it soften for about 3 minutes. The onion will mellow and sweeten, infusing the chicken with even more homey flavor. Next, add your grated carrot and give it another couple of minutes—just long enough for the carrot to soften and lend a hint of sweetness, plus a pop of sunny color.

Step 3: Stir in Butter and Ketchup

Next, add the unsalted butter and ketchup, stirring until the butter melts completely and everything is evenly married. The butter gives the dish a luscious finish, while the ketchup brings tangy richness you don’t quite expect—but will absolutely crave after the first bite!

Step 4: Add Rice and Seasoning

Now, sprinkle in your well-rinsed rice, making sure every grain gets coated with that delectable sauce. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and just a touch of cayenne. Give it all a gentle stir to evenly distribute the spices and ensure maximum flavor in every spoonful.

Step 5: Cook the Plov

Time for some hands-off magic! If you’re using a rice cooker, transfer the mixture and pour in the water or chicken broth, adjusting the salt if needed. Set to “White Rice” and let the machine work its magic. Cooking on the stovetop? Pour everything into a pot with a tight-fitting lid, add your water or broth, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Resist peeking—the steam is key for fluffy rice!

Step 6: Serve and Fluff

When the Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) is done, fluff the rice with a fork to release the steam and blend those mouthwatering flavors. Serve it hot and enjoy just how deeply comforting and satisfying this dish is!

How to Serve Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf)

Garnishes

Brighten up your dish with classic garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or dill. A sprinkle of green not only makes Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) pop visually, but also adds a refreshing herbal lift that pairs beautifully with the richness of the pilaf.

Side Dishes

Want to make your meal even more special? Serve this Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) alongside a crisp cucumber and tomato salad or some pickled vegetables, which provide a lovely contrast to the savory rice and chicken. Even a dollop of tangy sour cream can be a wonderful addition.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, try spooning the plov into individual serving bowls and topping each with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or pomegranate seeds for a hint of crunch and burst of color. Serve straight from the pan for a cozy, family-style feel, or pack it in a lunchbox for a midday treat that tastes just as good as it looks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) stores beautifully! Simply let it cool to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavor and texture.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, portion the cooled pilaf into freezer-safe bags or containers. Flatten for quick freezing and easy thawing. Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) can be safely frozen for up to three months, making it a brilliant option for future busy nights.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the rice’s moisture, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between so everything heats evenly. The plov will taste almost as fresh as the first time you made it!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely, although you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and possibly the amount of liquid, since brown rice takes longer to cook. The flavor will be nuttier, and the texture slightly chewier, but Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) is still just as delicious with this wholesome swap!

What other cuts of chicken work well in this recipe?

While chicken breast is lean and quick-cooking, boneless thighs are a fantastic alternative. They bring extra juiciness and deep flavor to the pilaf—just cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same instructions.

Can I substitute the ketchup?

If you’d prefer to skip ketchup, you can try a tablespoon or two of tomato paste for depth, or even a mild chili sauce for a subtle heat. Keep in mind, though, the ketchup’s little sweet tang is part of what makes Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) so addictive.

Is this dish spicy?

Not really! The small pinch of cayenne adds gentle warmth, but the dish isn’t spicy. If you like more heat, feel free to increase the cayenne or add a pinch of chili flakes; if serving little ones, you can omit it entirely.

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Regular long-grain white rice is ideal, as it cooks up fluffy and each grain stays distinct. Basmati can be used for a more aromatic result, but try to avoid short-grain or sticky varieties, which will change the classic texture of Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf).

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly magical about sharing a steaming bowl of Ukrainian Chicken Plov (Rice Pilaf) with loved ones. Give this recipe a try—it’s not only simple to make, but effortlessly brings warmth, flavor, and a taste of Ukrainian tradition to your table!