Fragrant Chicken Pilaf (Djaj Bil-Baharat)

Djaj Bil-Baharat, also known as Fragrant Chicken Pilaf, is a traditional Libyan dish that is bursting with aromatic flavors. This recipe combines tender chicken with fragrant spices and fluffy rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Fragrant Chicken Pilaf (Djaj Bil-Baharat)

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs (700g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons baharat spice blend
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic, baharat spice blend, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and rice, then pour in the chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  6. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
380 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Large pot Cooking spoon Measuring cups and spoons Knife Cutting board

Tools

Fork Lid for the pot

Serving suggestions

Serve Djaj Bil-Baharat with a side of fresh salad and warm pita bread.

Tips & tricks

For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken thighs in the baharat spice blend for 30 minutes before cooking.

Cost

$15