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Lebanese Chicken and Rice

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Lebanese Chicken and Rice (Riz a Djej) is a classic Middle Eastern dish made with fragrant rice, shredded chicken, warm spices, and toasted nuts. This comforting, gluten-free one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken or 4–6 chicken thighs
  • 2 cups long-grain rice (such as basmati)
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb (optional)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2–3 bay leaves
  • 4–5 cardamom pods or 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 4 cups chicken broth or water (from boiling the chicken)
  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or butter (optional, for richness)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Place the whole chicken in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, skim foam, then add bay leaves, cardamom, and salt. Simmer for 45–60 minutes until fully cooked.
  2. Remove the chicken, shred the meat, and set aside. Strain and reserve the broth.
  3. In another large pot, heat oil or ghee and sauté the onions until soft.
  4. Add the ground beef or lamb (if using) and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Stir in the rice and cook for 1–2 minutes to coat in the oil and spices.
  6. Add the cinnamon, allspice, and more salt to taste.
  7. Pour in 4 cups of the reserved chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
  8. Fluff the rice and gently mix in the shredded chicken.
  9. In a small skillet, toast the almonds and pine nuts in ghee or butter until golden brown.
  10. Top the chicken and rice with the toasted nuts and serve warm.

Notes

Use bone-in chicken for a more flavorful broth.To keep rice fluffy, avoid stirring after it starts cooking.Top with fresh parsley or mint for added color and freshness.To save time, use rotisserie chicken and ready-made broth.Pairs well with yogurt, cucumber salad, or fattoush.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/lebanese-chicken-and-rice/