Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine with our Spiced Chicken and Rice recipe. This delightful dish brings together the rich and vibrant flavors of the region, offering a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. The origin of this dish can be traced back to the Middle East, a land known for its aromatic spices and delectable culinary traditions. As you explore this unique recipe, you'll uncover the secrets of creating a sumptuous meal that combines tender, spiced chicken with perfectly cooked rice, making it a savory delight for both everyday dining and special occasions.

In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing this authentic Middle Eastern dish, allowing you to savor the exotic flavors and aromas that have made it a beloved staple in Middle Eastern kitchens for generations. Whether you're a seasoned cook looking for new and exciting recipes or an adventurous food lover ready to explore the world of Middle Eastern cuisine, this Spiced Chicken and Rice recipe is a fantastic choice that's sure to leave a lasting impression. So, let's delve into the origins and preparation of this mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of Middle Eastern culinary traditions.

To watch the cooking video, click on the link: Saudi Arabian Kabsa: A Flavorful Spiced Chicken and Rice Delight

Ingredients:

- 1 teaspoon ground cloves

- 1 teaspoon ground bay leaves

- 1 teaspoon ground ginger

- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Spiced Chicken:

  - In a mixing bowl, combine all the spices, including cloves, bay leaves, ginger, black pepper, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and cardamom.

  - Carefully lift the chicken skin, ensuring it's ready for seasoning.

  - Apply the spice mixture generously underneath the chicken skin, distributing it evenly.

  - Repeat this process for the remaining chicken pieces.

  - Place the seasoned chicken in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours.

Note: You can opt to use traditional animal ghee instead of vegetable ghee for a richer flavor and aroma.

2. Baking the Spiced Chicken:

  - After the chicken has marinated for three hours, remove it from the refrigerator.

  - Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).

  - Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 45 minutes until it's golden and cooked through.

3. Preparing the Rice:

  - In a separate pot, finely chop two onions and set aside.

  - Crush a garlic clove and keep it ready.

  - Heat two tablespoons of vegetable oil and one tablespoon of vegetable ghee (clarified butter) in a deep pan.

  - Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pan and sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly golden.

4. Combining Rice and Onion Mixture:

  - Add 1 1/2 cups of Basmati rice to the sautéed onions and garlic.

  - Cover the rice with warm water and let it soak for 10-15 minutes, allowing the rice to partially absorb the water.

  - After 12 minutes, drain the excess water, leaving the rice slightly moist.

5. Cooking the Rice:

  - Return the rice mixture to the pan with the sautéed onions and garlic.

  - Toast the rice with the onion mixture for about a minute.

  - Add two cups of boiling water to the rice and stir well.

  - Cover the pan and cook the rice for 10-15 minutes until it's tender and fully cooked.

6. Serving:

  - Once the rice and spiced chicken are ready, serve the chicken pieces on a bed of fragrant, spiced rice for a delightful and aromatic meal.

  - Enjoy your homemade spiced chicken and rice, a dish that will transport your taste buds to a world of flavors.

This unique and mouthwatering recipe combines Middle Eastern spices with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice, creating a delightful dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. Try it today!

Nutrition Value

1. Ground Cloves:

  - Calories: Negligible (typically less than 1 calorie per teaspoon)

  - Carbs: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin K, vitamin C, and trace minerals.

  - General Benefit: Cloves are known for their potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestive properties. They may also help improve liver health.

2. Ground Bay Leaves:

  - Calories: Negligible (typically less than 1 calorie per teaspoon)

  - Carbs: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and various B vitamins, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

  - General Benefit: Bay leaves are believed to aid in digestion, help regulate blood sugar levels, and provide antioxidants. They may also have anti-inflammatory properties.

3. Ground Ginger:

  - Calories: Approximately 6 calories per teaspoon

  - Carbs: Approximately 1.5 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 0.1 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 0.1 grams

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin C and vitamin B6, and contains small amounts of iron, magnesium, and potassium.

  - General Benefit: Ginger is renowned for its potential anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It may help alleviate nausea and provide immune system support.

4. Ground Black Pepper:

  - Calories: Negligible (typically less than 1 calorie per teaspoon)

  - Carbs: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamins A, K, and some minerals like iron and manganese.

  - General Benefit: Black pepper is commonly used as a spice and may aid in digestion, provide antioxidants, and have potential anti-inflammatory effects.

5. Ground Cumin:

  - Calories: Approximately 8 calories per 1.5 teaspoons

  - Carbs: Approximately 1.2 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 0.4 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 0.4 grams

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in iron and magnesium, also containing vitamin C and vitamin B6.

  - General Benefit: Cumin is known for its digestive properties, potential anti-inflammatory effects, and the ability to help lower blood sugar.

6. Ground Cinnamon:

  - Calories: Approximately 6 calories per teaspoon

  - Carbs: Approximately 2 grams

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin K and calcium.

  - General Benefit: Cinnamon is believed to have antioxidant properties and may help lower blood sugar levels. It is also valued for its sweet and warm flavor.

7. Paprika:

  - Calories: Approximately 6 calories per teaspoon

  - Carbs: Approximately 1.2 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 0.3 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 0.3 grams

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin A and contains small amounts of vitamin E, vitamin B6, and iron.

  - General Benefit: Paprika offers antioxidants, may support eye health due to its vitamin A content, and adds a rich, smoky flavor to dishes.

8. Ground Cardamom:

  - Calories: Approximately 6 calories per teaspoon

  - Carbs: Approximately 1.4 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 0.2 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 0.2 grams

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamins C and B6, as well as magnesium.

  - General Benefit: Cardamom is known for its potential digestive benefits, antioxidant properties, and its pleasant, fragrant taste.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the brand and variety of the spice. Spices are typically used in small quantities, so their individual nutritional impact is minimal, but they contribute flavor and potential health benefits to dishes.