Name: Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs), cut into serving pieces; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, grated; 2 medium tomatoes, chopped; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 3 cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 cup raisins; 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) is an unforgettable, aromatic masterpiece that captures the very essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. Imagine ultra-tender chicken nestled on a fluffy mound of golden rice, each grain humming with fragrant spices and a medley of sweet and savory flavors. This show-stopping dish isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience, a celebration, and a ticket straight to a family table glittering with Middle Eastern hospitality. Whether you’re making this for a special gathering or an adventurous weeknight spread, Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) will leave everyone reaching for seconds!

Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) is all about using simple, vibrant ingredients that, when combined, absolutely sing. Each component builds color, texture, and layers of flavor—leaving you with a dish that’s both striking and deliciously complex.

Olive oil: A splash of olive oil gets the whole flavor party started and makes everything wonderfully luscious.
Whole chicken (about 3 lbs), cut into serving pieces: The star ingredient, offering juicy meat and deep, savory flavor as it simmers.
Onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a flavorful base for all those glorious spices.
Garlic, minced: Brings pungency and warmth, infusing every bite with depth.
Carrots, grated: Offers a gentle sweetness and beautiful color throughout the rice.
Tomatoes, chopped: They break down to add a tangy freshness, setting the stage for a perfect sauce.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the savory flavor and creates an irresistible, rich color.
Basmati rice, rinsed and soaked: The long grains cook up fluffy and separate, absorbing every bit of delicious seasoning.
Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with robust, deep flavor while keeping everything moist.
Ground cumin: Adds earthy warmth that’s essential to authentic kabsa.
Ground coriander: Gives the dish a mild, almost lemony brightness.
Ground cinnamon: A signature touch for that sweet, spicy aroma.
Ground cardamom: Delivers a fresh, floral note to balance the richness.
Ground cloves: Just a hint brings subtle warmth and complexity.
Ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and sharpens every flavor in the pot.
Turmeric: Paints the rice a beautiful golden hue and brings an earthy touch.
Paprika: Offers gentle smokiness and a pop of color.
Salt (or to taste): Enhances every flavor—don’t be shy, but taste as you go!
Raisins: Surprise bites of sweetness pair beautifully with the spices and chicken.
Slivered almonds, toasted: Lend a tempting crunch and nutty aroma to finish the dish in style.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A final touch of freshness and color to make the whole dish pop.

How to Make Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice)

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. This step is all about building flavor—the golden color means extra depth and deliciousness in the finished Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice). Once browned, set the chicken aside for a little rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, toss in your finely chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and starting to turn golden, about five minutes. Then, stir in garlic and grated carrots. Give them a couple of minutes to get fragrant and sweet—these aromatics form the real backbone of your kabsa.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Base

Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot, stirring everything together. Let this mixture cook until the tomatoes have broken down and the whole mixture looks thick and saucy. This is where everything starts smelling amazing!

Step 4: Spice Things Up

Time to bring in those gorgeous Arabian spices! Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Toast the spices in the hot tomato mixture for a minute to unlock their full, captivating aroma.

Step 5: Simmer the Chicken

Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, making sure they’re lovingly coated in the spice mixture. Pour in the chicken broth to cover, then bring everything to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat, cover tightly, and let the chicken simmer for 30 minutes—enough time for it to absorb all those beautiful flavors.

Step 6: Add the Rice and Raisins

When the chicken is nearly falling-off-the-bone tender, carefully lift it out and set it aside. Stir the soaked and drained basmati rice as well as the raisins into the fragrant broth mixture in the pot. Distribute them evenly for a perfectly textured Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice).

Step 7: Steam Everything Together

Nestle the chicken pieces back on top of the rice. Cover the pot tightly (a kitchen towel under the lid helps prevent steam escape) and let it cook over low heat for about 20–25 minutes. When the rice is tender and all the liquid’s absorbed, you know you’re seconds away from greatness!

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Let your kabsa rest off the heat for 10 minutes. This pause lets the rice relax and the flavors come together. Before serving, fluff the rice gently, then sprinkle with a happy handful of toasted almonds and fresh parsley. That’s it—your Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) is ready for its grand entrance!

How to Serve Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice)

Garnishes

A generous shower of toasted almonds and chopped fresh parsley is the classic finish for Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice). The nuts bring crunch and elegance, while the herbs add a burst of color and freshness that makes every plate look irresistible. If you’re feeling adventurous, a few pomegranate seeds or a squeeze of lemon are also delightful!

Side Dishes

Traditionally, Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) is served alongside simple salads—think crisp cucumbers with tomatoes and lemon—or a cooling bowl of yogurt sauce. These light sides balance the robust main event and make every mouthful even more refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping centerpiece, pile the rice on a large platter and arrange the glistening chicken pieces over the top. Sprinkle the garnishes with dramatic flair and serve family-style, letting everyone dig in together. You can even use a ring mold for individual servings—perfect for dinner parties where every plate looks like a work of art!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) actually tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, so don’t be surprised if everyone goes looking for seconds and thirds.

Freezing

Kabsa freezes surprisingly well! Cool the dish completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. It’s like getting a taste of the Middle East anytime the craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, splash a little chicken broth or water over the rice and chicken to keep everything moist, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Cover the dish to retain steam and let the aromas revive—they’re guaranteed to fill your kitchen with good vibes.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of a whole chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in pieces. You may lose a little richness, but you’ll still get a fantastically flavorful Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice).

Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice)?

While the traditional dish is based around chicken, you can make a tasty vegetarian kabsa by swapping the chicken for hearty vegetables like cauliflower, chickpeas, or even paneer, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What does Kabsa taste like compared to other rice dishes?

Kabsa is distinct for its balance of warm spices, savory chicken, fragrant rice, and those little pops of sweet from the raisins. Unlike plain pilaf or biryani, Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) has a signature aromatic blend and slightly sweet undertone, making it instantly memorable.

Can I make kabsa in a rice cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Brown your chicken and sauté the aromatics using your device’s sauté setting, then layer in the ingredients as directed. Use the rice or pressure-cook function on your appliance—just be sure not to overcook, as the rice should stay fluffy, not mushy.

What’s the best way to toast the almonds?

Spread slivered almonds in a single layer on a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly until golden and fragrant (just 2–3 minutes). Watch closely—they go from perfect to burnt in a flash! Toasted almonds add a magical, nutty crunch to your Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice).

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) holds a place of honor at so many family tables—it’s comforting, exciting, and always a feast for the senses. If you’ve never tried making it at home, now’s your chance. Gather your spices, let your kitchen fill with those mouthwatering aromas, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Chicken Kabsa (Arabian Chicken and Rice) Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Chicken Kabsa, also known as Arabian Chicken and Rice, is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish with fragrant rice, tender chicken, and a blend of aromatic spices. This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs), cut into serving pieces

For the Rice:

1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, grated
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup tomato paste
3 cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot, brown chicken pieces, then set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Cook onions, garlic, and carrots until softened. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices.
Cook with Rice: Return chicken to the pot, add broth, and simmer. Stir in soaked rice and raisins. Cook until the rice is tender.
Finish and Serve: Let the dish rest before fluffing the rice. Garnish with toasted almonds and parsley.