Are you ready to spice up your culinary repertoire with a taste of the Middle East? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 flavorful Arabic chicken recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From the rich and aromatic spices of Arabian cuisine to the bold and zesty flavors of North African cooking, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the region’s most beloved dishes.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for inspiration for a new meal, these recipes are sure to delight. With options ranging from classic shawarma-style roasted chicken thighs to exotic Moroccan tagines and Persian kebabs, there’s something for everyone in this collection of Arabic chicken recipes.
Arabian Spiced Chicken with Saffron Rice
Experience the exotic flavors of the Middle East with this aromatic and flavorful dish, combining tender chicken with saffron-infused rice.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the saffron rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cardamom.
3. Season the chicken with the spice mixture, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to the oven and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Cook the rice according to package instructions, adding soaked saffron threads and salt to taste.
6. Serve the chicken with saffron rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lebanese Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
A classic Middle Eastern dish that combines the bold flavors of garlic, cumin, and coriander with tender chicken and crispy potatoes. This recipe is a staple in many Lebanese households and is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the potato wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat.
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the potatoes.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Apricots and Almonds
Discover the rich flavors of Morocco with this aromatic and nutritious dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This tagine is slow-cooked to perfection, tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with the sweetness of apricots and the crunch of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large clay or ceramic tagine or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, apricots, almonds, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot over couscous or rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs
Grilled Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs: A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines the bold spices of the Middle East with the smoky sweetness of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Shawarma-Style Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that captures the essence of traditional Shawarma, but with a twist – using chicken thighs instead of meat. The result is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with the bold flavors of the Middle East.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush them with the spice mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with lemon juice and parsley.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Arabic Chicken Mandi with Fragrant Basmati Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with this aromatic and flavorful recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This classic dish combines tender chicken cooked in a fragrant spice blend with fluffy basmati rice.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Mandi:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Fragrant Basmati Rice:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp ghee or butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken pieces, olive oil, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the chicken mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45 minutes or until cooked through.
4. For the rice, combine basmati rice, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until fluffy.
5. Serve chicken mandi with fragrant basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chicken Fatteh with Crispy Pita and Yogurt
Fatteh is a popular Middle Eastern dish that combines crispy pita bread with tender chicken, creamy yogurt, and crunchy toppings. This recipe is a twist on the classic, adding crispy pita chips for extra texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or pistachios
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and mix until coated.
3. Place pita breads on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
4. Grill or cook the chicken according to your preference, then chop into small pieces.
5. In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, parsley, and pine nuts. Mix well.
6. Assemble the fatteh by placing crispy pita chips on a plate, topping with chicken, and serving with yogurt sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Falafel-Crusted Chicken with Tahini Sauce
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish. The combination of crunchy falafel crust and creamy tahini sauce is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked falafel
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tahini sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the cooked falafel with a fork until coarsely chopped.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and lemon juice.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat with the falafel crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with Tahini Sauce (see below) and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Tahini Sauce:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Jordanian Mansaf Chicken with Jameed Yogurt
Experience the authentic flavors of Jordan with this classic recipe, combining tender chicken cooked in a rich and aromatic sauce, served with creamy jameed yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup jameed yogurt (or plain Greek yogurt)
– Chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-7 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in jameed yogurt (or plain Greek yogurt). Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Chicken and Chickpea Stew
Spiced Chicken and Chickpea Stew: A Hearty and Flavorful One-Pot Meal
This stew is a perfect blend of warm spices, tender chicken, and creamy chickpeas. It’s an easy and comforting meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned (5-6 minutes).
4. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Arabian Chicken Kabsa with Dried Lime
This flavorful dish is a staple of Arabian cuisine, where chicken, rice, and spices come together to create a mouthwatering meal. With the added zesty kick from dried lime, this kabsa is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 dried limes, crushed (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked rice, crushed dried lime (if using), and chopped parsley.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Fesenjan with Walnut and Pomegranate Sauce
Chicken Fesenjan is a classic Persian dish that combines the rich flavors of walnuts, pomegranate juice, and spices to create a bold and aromatic sauce. This recipe brings together the tender juiciness of chicken with the velvety smoothness of walnut and pomegranate.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup walnuts
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, grind walnuts into a coarse paste.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in pomegranate juice, ground cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and black pepper.
6. Add walnut paste and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Serve chicken with walnut and pomegranate sauce over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon and Sumac Roasted Arabic Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of the Middle East with this vibrant and aromatic roasted chicken dish, infused with the brightness of lemon and the warm spice of sumac.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground sumac
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, sumac, salt, and pepper.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Rub the lemon-sumac mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste the chicken with pan juices every 20 minutes during cooking.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Persian Chicken Joojeh Kebabs
Inspired by the flavors of ancient Persia, these kebabs are a mouthwatering combination of juicy chicken, aromatic spices, and tangy saffron. Perfect for a quick dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 wooden skewers, soaked in water
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, saffron, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the mixture onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece of chicken.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Harissa-Marinated Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the bold spices of harissa with the richness of olive oil and lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup harissa paste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together harissa, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Baharat-Spiced Chicken with Date Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this Middle Eastern-inspired dish, where warm spices and sweet dates come together in perfect harmony. This recipe yields a juicy chicken with a fragrant crust, paired with a rich date glaze that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Baharat spice blend (or substitute with a mix of ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cardamom)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix Baharat spice blend with olive oil.
3. Season chicken breasts with the spice mixture, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine chopped dates, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan.
6. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the glaze thickens slightly.
7. Brush the date glaze over chicken breasts during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Arabic Chicken Machboos with Rosewater
Experience the aromatic flavors of the Middle East with this traditional Arabic chicken dish infused with rosewater, a classic combination that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is a perfect blend of spices and succulent chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons rosewater
– 1 cup long-grain rice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in rosewater and cook for an additional minute.
4. Serve chicken over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Charcoal-Grilled Chicken Shish Tawook
Impress your friends and family with this flavorful and aromatic charcoal-grilled chicken dish, inspired by the popular Lebanese street food, shish tawook.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat charcoal grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as pita bread, tabbouleh salad, or grilled vegetables.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the rich flavors of Arabic cuisine! This collection of 18 mouthwatering chicken recipes will take your cooking game to the next level. From classic dishes like Shawarma-Style Roasted Chicken Thighs and Grilled Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs, to unique creations like Falafel-Crusted Chicken with Tahini Sauce and Jordanian Mansaf Chicken with Jameed Yogurt, there’s something for every palate. Explore the diverse flavors of Morocco, Lebanon, and Persia, and discover how easy it is to bring a taste of Arabia into your kitchen.
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