Wash the chicken pieces under cold water.
Pat them completely dry with paper towels.
Mix salt, pepper, cumin, and coriander together.
Rub these spices all over the chicken.
Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Heat oil in your large pot.
Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil.
Cook each side for 5 minutes until brown.
Remove chicken and set it aside safely.
Use the same pot with chicken drippings.
Add chopped onion and cook until soft.
This takes about 3 minutes on medium heat.
Add garlic and stir for 1 minute more.
Pour the rice into the pot now.
Stir it with onions for 2 minutes.
Add cinnamon stick and cardamom pods now.
This makes the rice smell wonderful.
Pour broth or water over the rice.
Place chicken pieces on top of rice.
Bring everything to a strong boil.
Then lower heat to very low setting.
Cover the pot with the tight lid.
Let it cook for 25 minutes undisturbed.
Turn off the heat after 25 minutes.
Keep the lid on for 10 more minutes.
This makes the rice fluffy and perfect.
Remove the chicken pieces to a plate.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
Serve chicken on top of the fragrant rice.