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Chicken Kabsa Recipe

Chicken Kabsa Recipe – Authentic, Flavorful & Easy

Sofia
A flavorful, soft, and fluffy Middle Eastern rice dish with tender chicken and aromatic spices.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Servings 4 peoples
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 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
  • 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 paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 carrots grated
  • 1/4 cup raisins optional
  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, and cardamom.
  • Sear the chicken until golden on all sides, then add bay leaves and 2 cups of water. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove and set chicken aside.
  • In the same pot, sauté onions until golden brown. Add garlic, tomatoes, and tomato paste; cook for 3–4 minutes.
  • Stir in the drained basmati rice, chicken broth, paprika, cloves, garam masala, and nutmeg.
  • Return the chicken to the pot. Cover and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes until the rice is soft and fluffy.
  • Gently mix in grated carrots and raisins. Garnish with toasted almonds before serving.

Notes

✅ Top Tips for the Best Chicken Kabsa:

  • Use high-quality basmati rice: Soak it for at least 30 minutes before cooking for fluffy, separated grains.
  • Toast the spices: Lightly toasting the whole spices before grinding or adding them to the oil brings out their aroma and depth.
  • Rest before serving: Let the Kabsa sit covered off heat for 5 minutes after cooking—this helps the rice absorb remaining moisture and flavors.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Skipping the rice soak: It can cause uneven cooking and sticky texture.
  • Overcrowding the pot: Avoid layering too many ingredients without stirring. It can lead to uneven cooking or burnt bottoms.
  • Not searing the chicken properly: This step builds flavor, so don’t rush it.