One-Pot Saffron Chicken with Tomatoes
Poultry

One-Pot Saffron Chicken with Tomatoes

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated November 1, 2026

A comforting one-pot chicken dish slow-cooked with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of saffron for a beautiful golden color. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe works equally well in a pressure cooker or a regular pot. Serve over rice or with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the fragrant broth.

Prep⏱️ 30 min
Servings👥 10 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

10 servings

10
  • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, finely diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 tsp saffron threads or food-grade coloring
  • 2 tbsp lard or sunflower oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup hot water

Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare the aromatics: finely dice the tomatoes, chop the onion, and crush the garlic into a smooth paste.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the tomatoes, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and let marinate for 15 minutes.

  3. 3

    Heat the lard or oil in a large pot or pressure cooker over medium-high heat. Stir in the saffron, then add the marinated chicken.

  4. 4

    Cover loosely and cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until the chicken releases its natural juices.

  5. 5

    Add the hot water, stir gently, then seal the pressure cooker. Cook for 25 minutes after pressure builds. If using a regular pot, simmer covered for 45 minutes over low heat.

  6. 6

    Check that the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Adjust seasoning and serve hot with rice, couscous, or fresh crusty bread.

💡 Chef's Tip

For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for up to 1 hour in the fridge before cooking. Saffron gives the best color and aroma, but a pinch of turmeric works well as a budget-friendly alternative.