If you’re craving a dish that combines fragrant spices, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice, then this Hawaij Chicken & Rice Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Infused with the distinctive warm and aromatic flavors of hawaij spice, this comforting meal feels like a journey through Middle Eastern kitchens with every bite. It’s remarkably simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for friends and family to gather around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on the right ingredients is the key to nailing this recipe. Each element plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and earthy warmth that define the Hawaij Chicken & Rice Recipe.
- Olive oil: For a rich, fruity base that helps brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics beautifully.
- Bone-in chicken thighs: Ideal for juicy, tender meat that stays moist throughout cooking.
- Hawaij spice: The star blend that brings a smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet warmth to the dish.
- Yellow onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when softened in the pot.
- Garlic cloves: For that irresistible pungent aroma that complements the spices perfectly.
- Chicken broth: Provides the savory liquid to cook the rice and enrich the whole dish.
- Kosher salt: To balance and enhance every flavor along the way.
- Mixed brown rice: Offers nutty texture and heartiness that pairs so well with the tender chicken.
- Optional garnishes: A fresh green salad and chopped scallions to lighten and brighten the plate.
How to Make Hawaij Chicken & Rice Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This moderate heat ensures your chicken cooks through slowly while allowing the rice to absorb all those amazing flavors.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Warm the olive oil in a heavy, ovenproof pot like a dutch oven over medium-high heat. This step locks in the chicken’s juices for juicy, flavorful meat.
Step 3: Coat Chicken with Hawaij Spice
Generously sprinkle the hawaij spice over each chicken thigh on both sides, pressing gently so it adheres well. This creates a fragrant crust that becomes the defining feature of the dish.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs skin side down in the hot oil and brown for 3 minutes per side. This caramelization adds complexity and that irresistible crispy texture.
Step 5: Set Chicken Aside
Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside carefully—this rest period helps maintain their tenderness.
Step 6: Sauté Onions
Into the same pot, add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onions soak up any leftover chicken flavor, intensifying the base.
Step 7: Add Garlic
Mix in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma without burning.
Step 8: Deglaze and Add Broth
Pour a small amount of chicken broth into the pot and scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift all those flavorful browned bits. Then add the rest of the broth and turn off the heat to avoid overcooking the garlic.
Step 9: Combine Rice and Chicken
Stir the mixed brown rice into the broth, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Nestle the browned chicken thighs right on top of the rice nestled snugly for even cooking.
Step 10: Oven Cooking
Cover your pot tightly and transfer it to the oven for 35 minutes. This slow cook lets the rice soak in the spiced broth perfectly. Then remove the lid and cook for 10 more minutes to allow the top to develop a slightly toasted finish.
Step 11: Rest Before Serving
Take the pot out and let everything rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This pause lets the flavors settle and the rice fluff up to perfection before you dive in.
How to Serve Hawaij Chicken & Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh scallions on top adds a vibrant pop of color and fresh bite that contrasts beautifully with the rich, spiced chicken and rice. It’s that little finishing touch that makes every forkful exciting.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The acidity and crunch provide balance to the hearty and warmly spiced chicken and rice ensemble.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and rice in individual rustic bowls topped with dollops of thick yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. It brings in creaminess and brightness that elevate this flavorful recipe even further.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making day-old Hawaij Chicken & Rice Recipe just as delicious as freshly cooked.
Freezing
This meal freezes nicely for up to 2 months. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure texture and taste remain intact.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating helps refresh the rice and keeps the chicken moist and tender.
FAQs
What is hawaij spice?
Hawaij is a traditional Yemeni spice blend typically made from cumin, black pepper, turmeric, and cardamom, sometimes with coriander and cloves. Its warm and earthy profile is essential for the unique flavor of this recipe.
Can I use boneless chicken?
You can, but bone-in thighs add more flavor and stay juicier during cooking. If using boneless, reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.
Is brown rice necessary for this recipe?
Brown rice adds nuttiness and chew that complements the spices well. You can substitute with white rice, adjusting cooking time as white rice cooks faster and absorbs liquid differently.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, just double-check your hawaij spice blend and chicken broth labels to ensure no additives contain gluten.
What’s the best way to make hawaij spice at home?
Mix equal parts cumin, black pepper, turmeric, and cardamom, then add smaller amounts of coriander and cloves if available. Toasting the spices lightly before grinding amplifies their fragrance.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Hawaij Chicken & Rice Recipe, you’ll see why it’s a go-to for so many food lovers seeking bold, comforting flavors with minimal fuss. Its rich spices, tender chicken, and hearty rice create a harmony that feels both exotic and deeply satisfying. Don’t hesitate to make it soon—you’re in for an unforgettable meal that brings warmth and joy to your table.
