Lebanese Chicken and Rice with Cinnamon and Nuts (Riz a Djej)
This traditional Lebanese dish is a comforting blend of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and rice, garnished with toasted nuts. Riz a Djej is a beautifully spiced meal that's perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering, infusing the air with the warm scent of cinnamon.
Equipment
- Large skillet with lid
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Dry pan for toasting nuts
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly washing the rice until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and allspice. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the drained rice with the onions and cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the rice slightly.
- Gently place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice and pour in the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- While the rice and chicken are cooking, toast the pine nuts and slivered almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Be careful to watch them closely as they can burn easily.
- Once the chicken and rice are done, let them rest covered for 10 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and transfer the chicken and rice to a serving platter.
- Garnish with the toasted nuts and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, you can use a mixture of chicken thighs and drumsticks.
If you prefer, you can remove the skin from the chicken thighs to reduce the fat content.
This dish is traditionally served with a side of plain yogurt or a simple salad.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.