Machbous (fragrant Chicken Machboos)

Machbous, also known as fragrant chicken machboos, is a traditional Kuwaiti dish that is bursting with aromatic flavors. This one-pot meal features tender chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and a blend of warm spices that will transport your taste buds to the Middle East.

Machbous (fragrant Chicken Machboos)

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp machbous spice mix
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
  • 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped cilantro and lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
  3. Stir in the machbous spice mix and minced garlic, then add the diced tomatoes. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
  4. Next, add the basmati rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the flavorful mixture.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  6. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and transfer the machbous to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
400 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pot Cooking spoon Knife Cutting board

Tools

Fork Serving platter

Serving suggestions

Machbous is traditionally served with a side of tangy yogurt or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.

Tips & tricks

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of saffron threads to the chicken broth before simmering the machbous.

Cost

Medium