Chicken Kabsa Recipe – Authentic, Flavorful & Easy

Chicken Kabsa Recipe is a traditional Middle Eastern dish known for its fragrant basmati rice, tender chicken, and rich blend of aromatic spices. This one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s easy to prepare, full of bold flavors, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine or a seasoned home cook, this Chicken Kabsa Recipe will become a favorite!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 2 bay leaves

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes and drained)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 carrots, grated
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup almonds, toasted (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, and cardamom.
3. Sear the chicken until golden brown on all sides.
4. Add bay leaves and 2 cups of water. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is tender. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Cooking the Rice

5. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
6. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
7. Add the soaked and drained basmati rice, chicken broth, salt, paprika, cloves, garam masala, and nutmeg. Stir well.
8. Return the chicken to the pot and cover. Let it cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes until the rice is soft and fluffy.
9. Add grated carrots, raisins (if using), and mix gently.

Step 3: Serving

10. Garnish with toasted almonds before serving.
11. Serve hot with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

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Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality basmati rice for the best texture and flavor.
• Toast the spices before adding to the dish to enhance the depth of flavor.
• Avoid over-stirring the rice while cooking to keep it fluffy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not soaking the rice – This helps in achieving soft and fluffy rice.
• Cooking at high heat – Always cook on low heat to ensure even cooking.
• Skipping the spices – The unique blend of spices gives Chicken Kabsa its signature flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg

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FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Kabsa in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function for the chicken and onions, then pressure cook for 8 minutes on high, followed by a natural release.

2. Can I use boneless chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work great and cook faster.

3. What can I serve with Chicken Kabsa?
It pairs well with a side of yogurt, cucumber salad, or a spicy sauce.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Kabsa Recipe is a must-try if you love aromatic, flavorful, and easy-to-make dishes. The soft and fluffy rice, combined with tender chicken and warm spices, makes it a perfect meal. Try this recipe and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!

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