Riz Ma' Dajaj

Riz Ma' Dajaj is a delightful Lebanese rice dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a fragrant blend of spices and served over fluffy rice. This gluten-free dish is perfect for a comforting meal that celebrates the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup
• Chicken thighs - 300 grams, boneless and skinless
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Chicken broth - 2 cups
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Cinnamon stick - 1
• Allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Pine nuts - 2 tablespoons, toasted
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken thighs to the pot, season with salt, black pepper, allspice, and the cinnamon stick. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Discard the cinnamon stick.
7. Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot. Stir well, cover, and cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
8. While the rice is cooking, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
9. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and stir in the shredded chicken. Top with toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from chicken, supporting muscle health.
• Contains healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, beneficial for heart health.

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