Taj al Malek - Lebanese Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (about 3 lbs / 1.4 kg) 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (about 3 lbs / 1.4 kg)
• 2 cups (400g) basmati rice 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken stock 4 cups (950ml) chicken stock
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup (30g) toasted almonds, for garnish 1/4 cup (30g) toasted almonds, for garnish
• Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 520 kcal / 2176 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the minced garlic, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, ground cardamom, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor.
2. 2.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sear them until golden brown on all sides. This will help seal in the juices and add a crispy texture to the chicken. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the basmati rice and stir well to coat the grains with the onion and oil mixture.
4. 4.
   Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Transfer the cooked rice to a baking dish and arrange the seared chicken pieces on top.
6. 6.
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
7. 7.
   Remove the foil and sprinkle the toasted almonds over the chicken and rice. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the almonds to toast slightly.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh parsley or mint before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the royal flavors of Taj al Malek.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight in the spice mixture. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
• Basmati rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy grains.
• Toasted almonds — To toast the almonds, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken and rice before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mixture.
• To make the dish more colorful, add a handful of frozen peas or diced carrots to the rice during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Serve Taj al Malek with a side of fresh Lebanese salad and warm pita bread for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve Taj al Malek as a centerpiece dish for a special occasion or family gathering. Place the chicken and rice casserole on a large platter, garnish with fresh herbs and toasted almonds, and let your guests help themselves to this royal feast.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, arrange the chicken pieces on top of the rice in an attractive pattern. Sprinkle the toasted almonds and fresh herbs over the dish for a pop of color. Serve the Taj al Malek in a beautiful ceramic or glass baking dish to showcase its regal appeal.