Spiced Chicken Kabsa with Flavorful Rice
Indulge in the rich flavors of Saudi Arabia with this Spiced Chicken Kabsa, featuring tender pounded chicken breasts sautéed to golden perfection. Paired with aromatic white basmati rice infused with a delightful blend of spices, this gluten-free dish creates a satisfying meal without the need for complicated cooking techniques. The dish is complemented by a savory tomato or tomato-free sauce (Daqous) that enhances its flavor profile. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will transport your taste buds to a Middle Eastern paradise.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 (Pounded thin)
Sea salt
To taste (For seasoning)
Fresh ground pepper
To taste (For seasoning)
Olive oil
3 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon (For cooking chicken and sauce)
White basmati rice
1.5 cups (Rinsed and soaked)
Chicken stock
3 cups (For cooking rice and sauce)
Middle eastern mixed spice (Baharat)
1/2 teaspoon (Divided into 1/4 teaspoon for rice and 1/4 teaspoon for sauce)
Kabsa spices
1/4 teaspoon (For rice)
Turmeric
1 pinch (For rice)
Canned tomato puree
2 cups (For sauce)
Tomato paste
1 tablespoon (For sauce (omit for tomato-free version))
Ground cumin
1 pinch (For sauce)
Tahini
1 teaspoon (For sauce)
Garlic cloves
4 (Crushed)
Instructions
1
Begin by seasoning the thinly pounded chicken breasts with olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground pepper. Heat a skillet over high heat and add the chicken, cooking until both sides are golden brown. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 20 minutes before draining it well.
3
In a deep pan, combine the soaked and drained basmati rice with chicken stock, middle eastern mixed spice (Baharat), kabsa spices, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 14-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
4
While the rice is cooking, prepare the sauce (Daqous) by combining canned tomato puree (or Basic Nomato Sauce for a tomato-free option), tomato paste, olive oil, middle eastern mixed spice, ground cumin, tahini, crushed garlic, and a pinch of salt and fresh ground pepper in a medium pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add chicken stock or water if the sauce is too thick.
5
To serve, place the cooked basmati rice on a plate, then top with the sautéed chicken breasts. Drizzle generously with the Daqous sauce and serve with a fresh green salad on the side. Enjoy your flavorful Spiced Chicken Kabsa!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Chicken Kabsa?
Spiced Chicken Kabsa is a traditional Saudi Arabian dish featuring aromatic spiced rice topped with tender chicken, often served with a savory sauce called Daqous.
What type of chicken is used in this specific recipe?
This recipe uses two boneless skinless chicken breasts that have been pounded thin.
How should I prepare the chicken breasts?
The chicken breasts should be pounded thin and seasoned with olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground pepper before cooking.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
The chicken should be cooked in a skillet over high heat for approximately 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
What type of rice is recommended for Kabsa?
White basmati rice is recommended for its aromatic properties and texture.
Do I need to soak the rice before cooking?
Yes, the rice should be rinsed until the water runs clear and then soaked in cold water for 20 minutes before draining.
What is the ratio of rice to chicken stock?
This recipe uses 1.5 cups of white basmati rice and 3 cups of chicken stock.
What spices are added to the rice?
The rice is seasoned with middle eastern mixed spice (Baharat), kabsa spices, turmeric, and a pinch of salt.
How long does the rice need to simmer?
The rice should simmer on low heat, covered, for 14-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
What is Daqous?
Daqous is a savory Middle Eastern sauce made from tomato puree, spices, and garlic, used as a topping for Kabsa.
How do I prepare the Daqous sauce?
Combine tomato puree, tomato paste, olive oil, Baharat, cumin, tahini, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper in a pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Can I make a tomato-free version of this dish?
Yes, you can substitute the tomato puree and paste with a Basic Nomato Sauce to make it tomato-free.
What should I do if the Daqous sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Spiced Chicken Kabsa recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What is Baharat?
Baharat is a Middle Eastern mixed spice blend used to add depth and warmth to the rice and the sauce.
How much garlic is needed for the sauce?
The recipe calls for 4 crushed garlic cloves for the sauce.
What is the purpose of tahini in the sauce?
Tahini adds a subtle nutty flavor and creaminess to the Daqous sauce.
How is the dish served?
The cooked rice is placed on a plate, topped with the chicken breasts, and then drizzled generously with the Daqous sauce.
What is a good side dish for Chicken Kabsa?
A fresh green salad is an excellent accompaniment to balance the rich spices of the Kabsa.
What heat level should I use for the rice?
Bring the rice mixture to a boil first, then reduce to low heat and cover for the remainder of the cooking time.
How much olive oil is used in the entire recipe?
A total of 3 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon of olive oil is used, divided between the chicken and the sauce.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure the chicken is completely thawed and patted dry before pounding and seasoning.
What are Kabsa spices?
Kabsa spices are a specific blend often containing black lime, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon tailored for this dish.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe uses 2 chicken breasts and 1.5 cups of rice, typically serving 2 to 4 people depending on portion sizes.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, this version is designed to be simple and satisfying without the need for complicated cooking techniques.
Can I use brown rice instead?
You can, but brown rice requires more liquid and a significantly longer cooking time than white basmati rice.
What is the texture of the chicken?
By pounding the chicken thin and sautéing over high heat, it becomes tender with a golden-brown exterior.
Why do I need to rinse the rice?
Rinsing removes excess starch, which helps the rice grains stay separate and fluffy rather than sticky.
Can I substitute chicken stock with water?
Yes, but using chicken stock provides a much deeper and richer flavor to the rice.
How long does the entire meal take to prepare?
Preparation and cooking take roughly 45 to 60 minutes, including the rice soaking time.