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chicken mandi recipe.

 


Chicken Mandi Recipe (Traditional Yemeni Spiced Rice)

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

Chicken Mandi is a famous Middle Eastern rice dish originating from . This aromatic dish features tender chicken cooked with fragrant basmati rice and a blend of warm spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.

Traditionally prepared in a special underground oven, Mandi has become popular throughout the Middle East. The combination of smoky chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices makes this dish perfect for family dinners and festive occasions.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into 4 pieces (or 700 g chicken thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon Mandi spice mix (or mixed Arabic spices)

For the Rice

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Whole Spices

  • 3 cardamom pods
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3 cloves
  • 1 bay leaf

Garnish

  • ¼ cup toasted almonds or raisins
  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Rub the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, turmeric, and Mandi spice mix. Let the chicken marinate for 15–30 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 3: Add Tomato Base

Add chopped tomato and tomato paste, stirring well until the mixture becomes fragrant and slightly thick.

Step 4: Add Spices and Broth

Add cardamom, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces into the pot and cook for 20 minutes until partially cooked.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and add it to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes until the rice is fluffy and fully cooked.

Step 7: Roast the Chicken

Transfer the chicken pieces to a baking tray and roast in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.

Step 8: Serve

Fluff the rice and place it on a large serving platter. Arrange the roasted chicken on top and garnish with toasted almonds or raisins and fresh parsley.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Mandi

Use basmati rice
Basmati rice gives the dish a light and fluffy texture.

Roast the chicken
Roasting the chicken after simmering adds a delicious crispy finish.

Use fresh spices
Fresh whole spices give Mandi its authentic aroma.

Add smoky flavor
Traditional Mandi has a smoky taste. You can recreate this by briefly placing a hot charcoal piece in the pot with a little oil and covering it.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Mandi is traditionally served with:

  • Arabic tomato salsa (Salata Hara)
  • Plain yogurt sauce
  • Fresh cucumber salad
  • Flatbread

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Chicken Mandi?

Chicken Mandi is a traditional Middle Eastern rice dish made with spiced chicken and fragrant basmati rice cooked together with aromatic spices.

Where does Mandi come from?

Mandi originated in ** and later became popular across the Middle East.

Can Mandi be made with other meats?

Yes. Mandi can also be prepared with lamb, beef, or fish.

How long can Chicken Mandi be stored?

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

Can I freeze Chicken Mandi?

Yes. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat with a little broth to keep the rice moist.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Mandi is a flavorful and comforting dish that highlights the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East. The combination of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked basmati rice creates a meal that is both satisfying and memorable.

Whether served for a family dinner or a festive gathering, Chicken Mandi is a wonderful recipe to explore the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Similar Recipes

  1. Chicken Kabsa – A classic Saudi Arabian rice dish with spiced chicken and aromatic rice.
  2. Maqluba – A famous upside-down rice dish layered with chicken and vegetables.
  3. Chicken Biryani – A fragrant South Asian rice dish cooked with marinated chicken and spices.
  4. Persian Zereshk Polo with Chicken – Saffron rice served with barberry chicken.
  5. Uzbek Plov – Central Asian rice pilaf made with meat, carrots, and spices.

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