Crush the cloves and cumin in a mortar and pestle. Add oregano, black pepper,
and garlic cloves into the mortar with the spices and crush into a rough
paste.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, mayo, and spice mixture. Add
the chicken thighs and thoroughly coat the exterior. Cover and place in the
fridge for up to 24hrs or cook right away.
When ready to cook, place a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the
chicken thighs on both sides until internal temp reaches 165 F. Chop the
chicken into pieces in the pan or let rest then slice.
Add onion, cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir
aromatics together until fragrant but not burnt, about 30 seconds.
Add the rice to the pan with the aromatics and mix. Lightly toast the rice
and stir for about 2 minutes.
Add chicken broth, turn up the heat, and cover the pan to bring to a boil.
Turn the heat to the lowest setting. Let rice steam covered for about 20
minutes.
Uncover and taste the rice! Add salt as needed or a little more butter.