Lebanese Chicken and Rice - Easy Meal Recipe

Name: Lebanese Chicken and Rice – Easy Meal Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 bay leaves; 2 cinnamon sticks; 1 small onion, roughly chopped; 6 cups water; 1½ pounds chicken thighs; 3 cloves garlic, smashed; ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric; 2 tablespoons pine nuts; ½ cup slivered almonds; ½ cup cashews; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cups long grain rice, rinsed; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 pound lean ground beef; 2-7 teaspoons Spice; 1½ teaspoons salt; ½ teaspoons black pepper; ¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon; Fresh parsley, for serving

Last Updated on August 1, 2025

If you’re ready to dive into the rich flavors of Lebanese chicken and rice, you’re probably wondering what else to serve alongside it. Pairing is crucial. You might want a refreshing tabbouleh salad to balance the heartiness of the dish. The fresh parsley, mint, and tomatoes add a vibrant touch.

Another delightful option is roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil and spices, which can complement the meal wonderfully. A tangy garlic yogurt sauce can also provide a creamy contrast, enhancing every bite. Finally, don’t forget a side of warm pita bread; it’s perfect for mopping up those delicious juices.

Let’s talk about a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate: Lebanese chicken and rice. This is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt experience rooted in tradition. I can still remember the first time I had this dish at a friend’s family gathering. The aroma wafted through their home, teasing my senses before I even stepped foot into the dining room.

You see, food is a universal language, and Lebanese chicken and rice speaks volumes. It tells stories of family gatherings, special occasions, and celebrations wrapped in spices and love. Its deliciousness is legendary, and I’m thrilled to share with you how to create this mouthwatering dish at home. So grab your apron, and let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

What is Lebanese Chicken and Rice?

Lebanese chicken and rice is a hearty dish that combines tender chicken, spiced rice, and nuts, all coming together to create a flavorful delight. Traditionally, this dish uses chicken thighs, which are simmered to perfection with spices like cinnamon, turmeric, and garlic. The rice is cooked with ground beef and seasoned with a unique blend of spices known as “seven spice.”

Historically, this dish has its roots in Middle Eastern cuisine, where spices play a huge role in flavoring food. It reflects the vibrant culinary culture of Lebanon, marrying a blend of flavors that is at once comforting and exciting.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Lebanese chicken and rice boasts a complex flavor profile that is nothing short of mesmerizing. The chicken is succulent and juicy, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the earthiness of turmeric. The garlic adds a sharp bite that cuts through the richness, while the bay leaves impart a subtle herbal note.

Moving on to the rice, it is fluffy and aromatic, absorbing all the spices from the cooking broth. When combined with the ground beef, it becomes a savory base that rounds out the meal beautifully.

The nuts add a crunchy texture, offering an unexpected delight with each bite. In one harmonious dish, you experience savory, nutty, and slightly sweet flavors, making every mouthful a treat.

Why You’ll Love This?

Simplicity: It’s made with straightforward ingredients found in most pantries.
Flavor: The spices work together to create a flavor explosion that will have you coming back for seconds.
Versatility: You can customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly: It can easily be made in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to whip up this delightful dish:

For the Chicken:

1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 bay leaves
2 cinnamon sticks
1 small onion, roughly chopped
6 cups water
1 ½ pounds chicken thighs
3 cloves garlic, smashed
¼ teaspoon ground turmeric

For the Nuts Topping:

2 tablespoons pine nuts
½ cup slivered almonds
½ cup cashews
1 tablespoon butter

For the Rice and Beef:

1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cups long grain rice, rinsed
2 tablespoons butter
1 pound lean ground beef
2 teaspoons 7 Spice (a blend of allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, coriander, and cumin)
1 ½ teaspoons salt (divided)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Fresh parsley, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. In a large pot, combine the water with the bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, chopped onion, smashed garlic, and turmeric. Bring the mixture to a boil, then carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs.

Let it cook for about 25-30 minutes on medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove the chicken and let it cool. Reserve the broth for cooking the rice.

Step 2: Cook the Nuts

While the chicken cools, heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the pine nuts, slivered almonds, and cashews. Stir frequently until they turn golden brown. Be cautious, as these can burn quickly! Once done, set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Rice

In a separate pot, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion until it softens. Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart while it cooks. Once browned, stir in the 7 spice, 1 teaspoon salt, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and a quarter teaspoon of ground cinnamon.

Next, add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring to coat it with the beef and spices. Pour in 4 cups of the reserved broth (you may need to adjust based on your rice). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice is fluffy and all the liquid has absorbed.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

While the rice cooks, take the cooled chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces. You can use a fork for this or your hands if you prefer. Mix this shredded chicken back into the pot with the rice and beef, carefully folding it in to combine everything well.

Step 5: Serve the Dish

Fluff the rice with a fork. Serve the chicken and rice warm, topping each plate with a generous handful of toasted nuts and fresh parsley. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard not to dig in right away!

Tips & Tricks

Stock Up on Spices: If you often cook Mediterranean dishes, invest in a good spice rack. The quality of your spices can make a huge difference.
Don’t Rush the Nuts: Toasting the nuts adds a depth of flavor. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from golden to burned in seconds.
Cook Rice Perfectly: If you’re not accustomed to cooking rice, follow the liquid-to-rice ratio meticulously. A little too much water can lead to mushy rice.
Balance the Flavors: Adjust the spices to your liking. If you love heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
Make it Your Own: You can easily add vegetables to the rice mixture, such as peas or carrots, for added nutrition and flavor.

Nutrition Information

A serving of Lebanese chicken and rice can provide a well-rounded meal rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Specifically, here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fats: 15g
Fiber: 3g

(Note: This is a rough estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.)

How Can You Store This Lebanese Chicken and Rice?

Once you have your Lebanese chicken and rice prepared, you’ll want to know how to store it effectively. Cool the dish to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

If you want to save it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Make sure to portion it out, so you can grab a single serving when needed. It should last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.

If Some of the Ingredients are Not Available, Here are Some Alternatives

1. Chicken Breast in Place of Thighs: If you only have chicken breast, feel free to use it instead. Just keep in mind that it may become drier than thighs, so avoid overcooking.

2. Ground Turkey for Beef: For a lighter option, ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground beef. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.

3. Quinoa Instead of Rice: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa can be a fantastic substitute. Adjust the liquid content since quinoa cooks differently than rice.

Conclusion

Lebanese chicken and rice is more than just a recipe; it’s a gateway to experience the rich culture and warm hospitality of Lebanon. This dish is simple, aromatic, and undeniably delicious, making it perfect for any occasion.

By following this guide, you’ll discover not just how to make the dish, but also how to enjoy every step of the cooking process. So light your stovetop, gather your ingredients, and let each bite transport you straight to a family feast in Lebanon. Trust me, you’ll be grateful for every spoonful and might even find yourself planning a family gathering of your own. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Lebanese Chicken and Rice – Easy Meal Recipe

Author: Mary Siegel Cuisine: Lebanese Courses: Side Dish

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 30 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 450

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Let’s talk about a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate: Lebanese chicken and rice. This is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt experience rooted in tradition. I can still remember the first time I had this dish at a friend's family gathering. The aroma wafted through their home, teasing my senses before I even stepped foot into the dining room.