Al Kabsa Traditional Saudi Rice and Chicken Recipe

Chicken: Provides the main protein for the dish, cut into pieces for even cooking.

Basmati rice: A long-grain rice that is aromatic and perfect for absorbing the flavors of the spices and broth.

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory base flavor when sautéed.

Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its pungent and aromatic qualities.

Tomato: Adds a fresh and slightly tangy element to the dish.

Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the color and taste of the dish.

Ground cumin: Provides a warm, earthy flavor that is essential to Middle Eastern cuisine.

Ground coriander: Adds a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor to the spice mix.

Ground turmeric: Gives the dish a vibrant yellow color and a subtle earthy taste.

Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm and sweet-spicy note to the dish.

Ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and enhances the overall flavor.

Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.

Chicken broth: Provides the liquid needed to cook the rice and infuses it with rich flavor.

Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, and browning the chicken.

When sautéing the onion and garlic, make sure to cook them until they are a deep golden brown. This step is crucial as it develops a rich, caramelized flavor base for the Al Kabsa. Additionally, when adding the chicken pieces, ensure they are browned evenly on all sides. This not only locks in the juices but also adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

• whole chicken - Substitute with bone-in chicken thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs provide a similar flavor and texture, and they stay moist during cooking.

• basmati rice - Substitute with jasmine rice: Jasmine rice has a similar aromatic quality and texture, making it a good alternative.

• large chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can complement the dish well.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic is preferred for its robust flavor.

• large chopped tomato - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are convenient and provide a similar texture and flavor.

• tomato paste - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used as a substitute in small quantities, though it is sweeter and less concentrated.

• ground cumin - Substitute with ground caraway seeds: Ground caraway seeds have a similar earthy flavor, though slightly different, they can work in a pinch.

• ground coriander - Substitute with ground caraway seeds: Ground caraway seeds can mimic the citrusy notes of coriander.

• ground turmeric - Substitute with saffron: Saffron provides a similar color and a unique flavor, though it is more expensive.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground allspice: Ground allspice has a warm, sweet flavor that can mimic cinnamon in savory dishes.

• ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and can be used as a direct substitute.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar base flavor for the dish.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthy alternative and can be used for cooking and flavoring.

• Allow the Al Kabsa to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the rice soggy.
• Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into airtight containers. For best results, use containers that are shallow and wide to ensure even cooling.
• Label the containers with the date of preparation. This will help you keep track of how long the Al Kabsa has been stored.
• Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the dish within 3-4 days. Ensure the temperature of your fridge is set below 40°F (4°C).
• For longer storage, place the airtight containers in the freezer. Al Kabsa can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen Al Kabsa in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the integrity of the rice and chicken.
• Reheat the Al Kabsa on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the Al Kabsa in the microwave. Place the rice and chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
• If you notice any off smells, discoloration, or changes in texture, discard the Al Kabsa as it may have spoiled.
• For added freshness, garnish the reheated Al Kabsa with freshly chopped tomatoes or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.

• Large pot: A spacious cooking vessel to accommodate the chicken, rice, and broth, ensuring even cooking.

• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for safely chopping the onion, garlic, and tomato.

• Chef's knife: A sharp knife for efficiently cutting the chicken and vegetables.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the rice and chicken broth.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for precise measurement of spices and tomato paste.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients without scratching the pot.

• Garlic press: A tool to easily mince the garlic cloves.

• Fork: Used to fluff the rice once it is cooked.

• Lid: To cover the pot and allow the dish to simmer and the rice to cook properly.

• Colander: Useful for rinsing and soaking the basmati rice before cooking.

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the onion, garlic, and tomato in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-cut chicken: Buy pre-cut chicken pieces to save time on butchering.

Instant broth: Use store-bought chicken broth instead of making it from scratch.

Soak rice early: Soak the basmati rice while prepping other ingredients.

One-pot cooking: Cook everything in one large pot to minimize cleanup time.