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Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice)


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

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


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