Name: Authentic Palestinian Maftoul
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Palestinian
Ingredients: For the chicken broth:; 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces) or 6–8 bone-in chicken thighs; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 bay leaves; 1 cinnamon stick; 1 tsp ground allspice; 1 tsp ground black pepper; Salt to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; For the maftoul:; 2 cups Palestinian maftoul (hand-rolled wheat pearls); 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground allspice; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups cooked or canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained); Optional garnish:; Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges; Extra chickpeas or caramelized onions

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Palestinian Maftoul is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience. With its unique hand-rolled grains, warm cinnamon and allspice-infused broth, and tender chicken, every bite delivers flavor, texture, and tradition. This one-pot comfort dish is nourishing, aromatic, and perfect for sharing. Plus, it’s easy to customize with vegetables or legumes, making it both versatile and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken broth:

Whole chicken (cut into pieces or bone-in thighs)
Onion
Bay leaves
Cinnamon stick
Allspice
Black pepper
Salt
Olive oil

For the maftoul:

Palestinian maftoul (hand-rolled wheat pearls)
Olive oil or butter
Chickpeas (cooked or canned)
Ground cinnamon
Ground allspice
Salt and black pepper
Onion

For garnish (optional):

Fresh parsley
Lemon wedges
Extra chickpeas or caramelized onions

Directions

Make the chicken broth: In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions until soft. Add the chicken pieces and brown them lightly on all sides.
Add bay leaves, cinnamon stick, allspice, salt, and pepper. Pour in enough water to cover the chicken completely.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45–60 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Skim any foam from the surface.
Remove the chicken and set aside. Strain the broth and reserve it for cooking the maftoul.
Cook the maftoul: In a separate large pot, sauté chopped onions in olive oil or butter until golden.
Stir in the maftoul grains and toast lightly for a few minutes, allowing the grains to absorb flavor.
Add ground cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Pour in enough strained chicken broth to cover the maftoul by about 1 inch. Add chickpeas and stir.
Cover and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, or until the maftoul is tender and has absorbed the broth.
While the maftoul cooks, you can either serve the chicken as-is or lightly fry or bake it for a crisp finish.
Fluff the maftoul before serving. Plate with a generous serving of maftoul and chickpeas topped with chicken, and garnish as desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add more chickpeas and root vegetables like carrots or squash.
Spicy Maftoul: Add a pinch of chili flakes or ground cumin for extra warmth.
Tomato-Based Broth: Add a spoonful of tomato paste to the broth for a deeper, richer flavor.
Caramelized Onion Topping: Top with slow-cooked onions for a sweet contrast.
Lamb Maftoul: Substitute chicken with lamb shanks or chunks for a more robust variation.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm the maftoul and chicken in a pot over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Maftoul can also be frozen for up to 2 months; defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat as above.

FAQs

What is maftoul?

Maftoul is a traditional Palestinian grain dish made from hand-rolled bulgur and wheat flour. It’s similar to couscous but larger, with a chewy, satisfying texture.

Is maftoul the same as couscous?

No, while they look similar, maftoul is made from bulgur and has a firmer, more rustic texture than couscous, which is made from semolina flour.

Where can I buy authentic maftoul?

Look for it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online under names like “Palestinian maftoul” or “hand-rolled couscous.”

Can I make maftoul from scratch?

Traditionally, yes, but it’s time-intensive. Most people use ready-made maftoul sold in bags or boxes.

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Yes, canned chickpeas are a convenient option. Just rinse and drain before adding them.

Is maftoul gluten-free?

No, maftoul is made from wheat and bulgur, so it is not gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, maftoul reheats well. Make it a day ahead and gently reheat with a little broth or water.

What’s the best side dish to serve with maftoul?

A simple cucumber and yogurt salad or a tomato-cucumber salad pairs beautifully.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Simmer it gently in broth and avoid overcooking. For added texture, lightly crisp it in a pan or oven before serving.

Can I cook the maftoul in a steamer?

Traditional maftoul is often steamed, but simmering it in broth is a quicker and equally flavorful method.

Conclusion

Authentic Palestinian Maftoul is a soulful, nourishing dish that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Palestine. With its hand-rolled grains, warming spices, and hearty chickpeas and chicken, it’s a complete and satisfying meal that brings people together. Whether you’re exploring Palestinian cuisine for the first time or revisiting a cherished family favorite, this maftoul recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bit