Discover how to make Riz Bil Dajaj, a flavorful and fragrant chicken and rice dish. This traditional recipe combines tender chicken with aromatic spices, golden raisins, and crunchy nuts. Perfect for a hearty meal that impresses at any gathering!

Ingredients:

- 2 cups basmati rice

- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tsp ground cumin

- 1 tsp ground coriander

- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric

- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or clarified butter

- 1/4 cup golden raisins

- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or pine nuts

- 3 cups chicken broth

- 1 bay leaf

- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Rice:

  - Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 20-30 minutes, then drain.

Cook the Chicken:

  - Heat the oil or clarified butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and golden brown.

  - Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  - Add the chicken thighs and cook until they start to brown on all sides.

  - Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the spices are well combined with the chicken.

Combine Ingredients:

  - Add the drained rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the spices and oil.

  - Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.

  - Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Prepare Garnishes:

  - While the rice is cooking, toast the almonds or pine nuts in a small skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Set aside.

  - Soak the golden raisins in a small bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain.

Finish the Dish:

  - Once the rice and chicken are cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the toasted nuts and soaked raisins.

  - Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Enjoy your Riz Bil Dajaj as a delicious and aromatic main course that pairs well with a side of yogurt or a simple salad!

Nutritional Values:

Basmati Rice (2 cups):

  - Calories: 420 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 90 g

  - Protein: 8 g

  - Fat: 0.6 g

  - Fiber: 2 g

Benefits: Basmati rice provides essential carbohydrates for energy and has a lower glycemic index compared to other rice varieties, which may help in managing blood sugar levels.

Chicken Thighs (1 lb):

  - Calories: 480 kcal

  - Protein: 40 g

  - Fat: 30 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

Benefit: Chicken thighs are a rich source of protein, important for muscle growth and repair, and provide essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

Onion (1 large):

  - Calories: 60 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 14 g

  - Protein: 1 g

  - Fat: 0.2 g

  - Fiber: 2.5 g

Benefits: Onions are high in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, which may reduce inflammation and support heart health. They also provide dietary fiber and essential vitamins.

Garlic (3 cloves):

  - Calories: 13 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 3 g

  - Protein: 0.6 g

  - Fat: 0 g

Benefits: Garlic has immune-boosting properties, may lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and contains allicin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.

Ground Cumin (1 tsp):

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0.4 g

  - Fat: 0.4 g

Benefits: Cumin is rich in iron and has antioxidant properties. It may aid digestion, boost immunity, and assist with weight loss.

Ground Coriander (1 tsp):

  - Calories: 5 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0.2 g

  - Fat: 0.3 g

Benefits: Coriander seeds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Ground Turmeric (1/2 tsp):

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1.4 g

  - Protein: 0.3 g

  - Fat: 0.2 g

Benefits: Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It supports joint health and may improve cognitive function.

Ground Cinnamon (1/2 tsp):

  - Calories: 3 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0.1 g

  - Fat: 0.1 g

Benefits: Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve heart health. It has antioxidant properties and may support brain function.

Ground Black Pepper (1/2 tsp):

  - Calories: ~3 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0.8 g

  - Protein: 0.1 g

  - Fat: 0.1 g

Benefits: Black pepper contains piperine, which enhances nutrient absorption and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also aids digestion and may improve brain function.

Salt (1/2 tsp):

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Salt is essential for fluid balance, nerve, and muscle function. However, excessive intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues.

Vegetable Oil or Clarified Butter (1/4 cup):

  - Calories: 450 kcal

  - Fat: 50 g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats necessary for energy and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Clarified butter (ghee) is also rich in butyrate, which supports digestive health.

Golden Raisins (1/4 cup):

  - Calories: 108 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 29 g

  - Protein: 1 g

  - Fat: 0 g

Benefits: Raisins are a good source of iron and potassium. They also provide antioxidants and dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.

Slivered Almonds or Pine Nuts (1/4 cup):

  - Calories: 200 kcal (for almonds) or 190 kcal (for pine nuts)

  - Carbohydrates: 7 g (for almonds) or 4 g (for pine nuts)

  - Protein: 7 g (for almonds) or 4 g (for pine nuts)

  - Fat: 18 g (for almonds) or 19 g (for pine nuts)

Benefits: Nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. They support heart health, improve cholesterol levels, and provide sustained energy.

Chicken Broth (3 cups):

  - Calories: 30 kcal (for low-sodium broth)

  - Protein: 5 g

  - Fat: 1 g

Benefits: Chicken broth provides essential minerals and can help support hydration and digestion. It's also used for flavor without adding excessive calories.

Bay Leaf (1):

  - Calories: 5 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0.2 g

  - Fat: 0.1 g

Benefits: Bay leaves are rich in antioxidants and can aid in digestion. They add subtle flavor and aroma to dishes.

Fresh Cilantro or Parsley (for garnish):

  - Calories: 1 kcal (per tablespoon)

  - Carbohydrates: 0.2 g

  - Protein: 0.1 g

  - Fat: 0 g

Benefits: Both cilantro and parsley are high in vitamins A, C, and K. They have antioxidant properties and support overall health and digestion.