Chicken and Rice With Almonds and Dried Cherries Recipe

Ingredients (13)

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces (2 thighs, 2 drumsticks, 4 breast pieces), or 2 pounds mixed chicken pieces
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 (2-inch) cinnamon stick
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds
• 1/2 cup dried cherries
• 3 dried hot red chilies (such as chile de arbol)
• 2 cups basmati rice (or other long-grain rice), rinsed until water runs clear
• 2 2/3 cups low-sodium homemade or store bought chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves and fine stems
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
• Hot sauce like harissa or mango pickle (optional)