Omani-style Spiced Chicken with Rice

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have incorporated the traditional flavors of Omani cuisine into the Chinese dish Fènglísū. The original dish is typically stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and soy sauce, while our Omani-style version focuses on marinating the chicken in aromatic spices and serving it with fragrant rice. We alse have the original recipe for Fènglísū, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless 500g (1.1 lb) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 2 tablespoons Omani spice blend (a mixture of turmeric, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper) 2 tablespoons Omani spice blend (a mixture of turmeric, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (200g) basmati rice 1 cup (200g) basmati rice
• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• 1/4 cup (40g) raisins 1/4 cup (40g) raisins
• A pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water A pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the Omani spice blend, ground coriander, ground ginger, and salt. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken thighs to the spice mixture and coat them evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice.
6. 6.
   Push the chicken to one side of the skillet and add the drained rice to the other side. Stir the rice gently to coat it with the flavors in the skillet.
7. 7.
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
8. 8.
   In a small saucepan, heat the raisins with a splash of water until they plump up. Drain the raisins and set them aside.
9. 9.
   Once the rice is cooked, drizzle the saffron water over the rice and gently fluff it with a fork to distribute the saffron evenly.
10. 10.
    Serve the Omani-style spiced chicken on a bed of fragrant saffron rice, garnished with plump raisins and fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Basmati rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
• Saffron threads — Soak the saffron threads in warm water for at least 10 minutes to release their vibrant color and aroma.
• Omani spice blend — If you can't find a pre-made blend, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground turmeric, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the Omani spice blend.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of spice blend used in the marinade.
• To enhance the sweetness of the raisins, you can soak them in warm water or orange juice before adding them to the dish.
• For added richness, you can garnish the dish with toasted slivered almonds or cashews.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.

Serving advice

Serve the Omani-style spiced chicken with rice as a main course, accompanied by a fresh salad or yogurt raita on the side. The vibrant colors and aromatic flavors make it an impressive dish for dinner parties or special occasions.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, arrange the chicken pieces on top of the saffron rice and sprinkle the plump raisins and fresh cilantro over the dish. Serve it in a large platter or individual plates for an elegant touch.