The Best Quick Kabsa: Delicious Flavor in No Time

Kabsa is one of the most beloved dishes in the Middle East, particularly in Gulf countries. Known for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and tender meat, Kabsa is a traditional dish that brings families and friends together around the dinner table. While the original recipe can take hours to prepare due to the slow cooking of meat, a quick chicken Kabsa offers the same incredible flavors with less time spent in the kitchen.

Using simple ingredients and traditional spices, this version of Kabsa is perfect for a busy day when you want to enjoy a hearty meal without the lengthy preparation. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this quick recipe ensures you won’t compromise on taste. Chicken is a lighter and faster alternative to lamb, and it absorbs the spices wonderfully, resulting in a flavorful dish.

In this article, we will guide you through the steps to prepare a quick and delicious chicken Kabsa, using everyday ingredients and pantry staples, while maintaining the essence of this iconic dish.

Ingredients for Quick Chicken Kabsa

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (about 1.5 kg)
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 tsp of tomato paste
• 4 cups chicken broth or water
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 whole cloves
• 4 whole cardamom pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tbsp Kabsa spice mix (optional for extra flavor)
• ½ cup raisins (optional)
• ½ cup toasted almonds or pine nuts for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken into serving-sized pieces, such as thighs, drumsticks, and breasts. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a touch of turmeric for added flavor and color. If you’re short on time, you can opt for pre-cut chicken pieces from the store.

2. Searing the Chicken

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them on all sides until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and gives the chicken a rich, crispy exterior. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

3. Cooking the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden. This process caramelizes the onions, bringing out their sweetness and adding depth to the dish. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

4. Adding the Tomatoes and Spices

Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens. This forms the rich base of the Kabsa. Next, add the ground cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and turmeric, along with the bay leaves, whole cloves, and cinnamon stick. If you have Kabsa spice mix on hand, this is the time to add it for an extra layer of flavor.

5. Adding the Chicken and Liquid

Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them into the tomato and spice mixture. Pour in the chicken broth or water, making sure the chicken is mostly covered by the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chicken simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing it to cook through and absorb the rich flavors of the spices.

6. Preparing the Rice

While the chicken is simmering, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky. After rinsing, drain the rice and set it aside.

7. Adding the Rice to the Kabsa

After the chicken has simmered for 20 minutes, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the pot and set them aside temporarily. Stir the rinsed basmati rice into the pot, mixing it well with the tomato and spice mixture. Make sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid, then return the chicken pieces on top of the rice. Cover the pot again and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

8. Optional Add-ins

If you like a touch of sweetness in your Kabsa, add the raisins during the last 10 minutes of cooking. The raisins will plump up and add a delightful contrast to the savory spices. For a nuttier flavor, you can also toast almonds or pine nuts to garnish the dish later.

9. Final Touches and Serving

Once the rice is fully cooked, turn off the heat and let the pot sit covered for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Fluff the rice with a fork, and arrange the chicken pieces on top of the rice for a beautiful presentation.

To serve, garnish the Kabsa with the toasted almonds or pine nuts for added crunch, and optionally sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Tips for Preparing the Perfect Chicken Kabsa

1. Choose the Right Rice: Use long-grain basmati rice for the best results. It absorbs liquids well and won’t clump together.
2. Brown the Chicken: Don’t skip the step of browning the chicken. This adds rich flavor and helps keep the meat tender.
3. Spices: Experiment with spices! Kabsa relies on a complex balance of flavors, and spices play a key role in creating the perfect taste.
4. Garnish: Adding nuts or raisins enhances the dish’s flavor and gives it a luxurious touch.

Chicken Kabsa is an ideal choice for those who want a delicious, flavor-packed meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With quick preparation and traditional spices, you can enjoy the best of Kabsa with ease, making it perfect for family meals or hosting guests.

Using chicken as the main ingredient makes Kabsa quicker and easier to prepare than versions with red meat. The mild flavor of chicken also makes it perfect for soaking up the bold spices used in the dish. By following this recipe, you’ll achieve a complete meal that combines great taste with ease of preparation.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner or a special meal for a family occasion, quick Chicken Kabsa offers a delicious dish that brings family and friends together to enjoy.

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