Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines succulent chicken with a rich blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron, paired with aromatic rice. It’s a comforting meal that’s flavorful and filling, and it can be cooked on the stovetop, in the oven, or using an Instant Pot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bone-in, skin-on chicken (legs or cut into large pieces)
Kabsa spice mix (including cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, paprika, cloves, and saffron)
Basmati rice
Chicken stock or broth
Dried limes (or lime powder)
Tomatoes, carrots, and other vegetables (optional)
Almonds, raisins, or sultanas for garnish

Directions

Sear the chicken in a pot until golden brown, then remove.
Sauté onions, garlic, ginger, and spices until fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook.
Add rice, stock, vegetables, and the chicken back to the pot. Simmer until rice is cooked.
Optional: Finish by browning the chicken in the oven.
Garnish with nuts, raisins, and parsley, then serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or more vegetables.
Spicy: Add chili peppers or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use other meats?

Yes, lamb, beef, goat, or seafood can be substituted.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Kabsa can be made a day ahead and reheated before serving.

3. How do I keep the rice fluffy?

Rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch.

Conclusion

Chicken Kabsa is a flavorful, satisfying dish that showcases the bold, comforting flavors of the Arabian peninsula. Whether for a special dinner or a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice)

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Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings

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Description

Chicken Kabsa is a fragrant, one-pot Arabian dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic rice, and a rich blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron. This traditional Saudi recipe is both flavorful and filling, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday dinners. With options for stovetop, oven, or Instant Pot cooking, it’s an easy yet impressive meal.

Ingredients

Bone-in, skin-on chicken (legs or cut into large pieces)

Kabsa spice mix (cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, paprika, cloves, saffron)

Basmati rice

Chicken stock or broth

Dried limes (or lime powder)

Tomatoes, carrots, and other vegetables (optional)

Almonds, raisins, or sultanas for garnish

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Instructions

Sear the chicken in a pot until golden brown, then remove.
Sauté onions, garlic, ginger, and spices until fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
Add rice, stock, vegetables (if using), and the chicken back to the pot. Stir and cover, allowing to simmer until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
Optional: Finish by browning the chicken in the oven for extra crispiness.
Garnish with almonds, raisins, and parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or additional vegetables.

Spice it up by adding chili peppers or hot sauce.

To ensure fluffy rice, rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop, Oven, Instant Pot
Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Arabian