Description
Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of Saudi Chicken Kabsa, a classic Arabian dish perfect for Ramadan Iftar or a special family gathering. This dish features fragrant basmati rice infused with Middle Eastern spices, topped with perfectly roasted chicken marinated in a blend of turmeric, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Garnished with fried onions, parsley, and lemon wedges, this hearty one-pot meal is a must-try for lovers of traditional Arabian cuisine!
Ingredients
Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and spices. Coat the chicken pieces evenly and marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for deeper flavor).
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken: Roast at 200°C (400°F) for 35–40 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Alternatively, you can pan-fry or grill the chicken.
3️⃣ Prepare the Rice: In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until golden brown.
4️⃣ Add blended tomatoes, tomato paste, kabsa spice mix, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper, and dried limes. Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5️⃣ Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then add soaked basmati rice. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes until the rice is light and fluffy.
6️⃣ Assemble & Serve: Transfer the rice to a large serving platter, place the roasted chicken on top, and garnish with fried onions, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.
7️⃣ Serve hot with yogurt, salad, or spicy shatta sauce on the side.
Notes
- For extra richness, add raisins or slivered almonds when cooking the rice.
- Dried limes (loomi) add a signature tangy flavor; if unavailable, substitute with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
- For spicier Kabsa, add ½ tsp chili powder or extra paprika to the rice.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting & Simmering
- Cuisine: Saudi, Middle Eastern, Arabic
