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chicken kabsa recipe.

 


Chicken Kabsa Recipe (Traditional Saudi Arabian Spiced Rice)

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4–5

Chicken Kabsa is a fragrant Middle Eastern rice dish originating from . This comforting meal features tender spiced chicken cooked with aromatic basmati rice, tomatoes, and warm spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.

Kabsa is often considered the national dish of Saudi Arabia and is popular across the Middle East. The combination of rich spices, juicy chicken, and fluffy rice makes this dish perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into 4 pieces (or 700 g chicken thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cardamom pods
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3 cloves
  • 1 bay leaf

Rice

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated carrot
  • ¼ cup raisins (optional)

Garnish

  • ¼ cup toasted almonds or pine nuts
  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned on all sides.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, salt, cardamom, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf. Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken becomes tender.

Step 5: Add Rice

Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and add it to the pot along with grated carrot and raisins.

Step 6: Cook the Kabsa

Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavorful broth.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the chicken and fluff the rice with a fork. Place the rice on a large serving platter and arrange the chicken on top. Garnish with toasted nuts and parsley.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Kabsa

Use basmati rice
Basmati rice works best because it stays fluffy and separate.

Toast the spices
Lightly sautéing spices enhances their aroma and flavor.

Use homemade chicken broth
It gives Kabsa a deeper and richer taste.

Add dried fruits
Raisins or dried apricots add a subtle sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Kabsa is traditionally served with:

  • Arabic salad
  • Yogurt sauce
  • Pickled vegetables
  • Flatbread

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Chicken Kabsa?

Chicken Kabsa is a traditional Middle Eastern rice dish made with spiced chicken cooked together with aromatic basmati rice and tomatoes.

Is Kabsa the same as Biryani?

Kabsa and biryani are similar rice dishes but use different spice blends and cooking methods. Kabsa typically has a lighter spice profile and often includes dried fruits and nuts.

Can I make Kabsa with other meats?

Yes. Kabsa can also be made with lamb, beef, shrimp, or even vegetables.

How long can Chicken Kabsa be stored?

Kabsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Chicken Kabsa?

Yes. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat with a little broth to restore moisture.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Kabsa is a delicious and aromatic dish that perfectly represents Middle Eastern cuisine. The combination of warm spices, tender chicken, and fluffy basmati rice creates a comforting meal that is both satisfying and flavorful.

Whether you are preparing a family dinner or exploring international cuisines, Chicken Kabsa is a wonderful recipe to add to your cooking repertoire.

Similar Recipes

  1. Mandi Rice with Chicken – Yemeni-style rice with slow-cooked spiced chicken.
  2. Maqluba – A layered Middle Eastern rice dish with chicken and vegetables.
  3. Chicken Biryani – A fragrant South Asian rice dish cooked with spices and marinated chicken.
  4. Persian Zereshk Polo with Chicken – Saffron rice served with barberry chicken.
  5. Uzbek Plov – Central Asian rice pilaf cooked with meat, carrots, and spices.

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