Mandi-Style Ridan Chicken – How to Prepare Mandi-Style Ridan Chicken
Mandi-Style Ridan Chicken is a popular traditional dish in Saudi Arabia, often served during gatherings, celebrations, and feasts. Originating in Saudi Arabia, it has spread across neighboring Gulf countries, becoming a signature dish of the region.
This dish is known for its simplicity in preparation, high nutritional value, and calorie content, providing significant energy. Additionally, it is rich in essential minerals like iron, copper, zinc, and calcium, and contains antioxidants that promote heart and vascular health.
Ingredients for Mandi-Style Ridan Chicken (Serves 4):
- 1 medium-sized chicken, washed and cut into 4 pieces
- 4 cups basmati rice, soaked
- 8 cups water
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 potato, quartered
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ tablespoon cardamom pods
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- Bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 dried black lemon (loomi)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon saffron, soaked in 2 tablespoons water
How to Prepare Mandi-Style Ridan Chicken:
Sauté the Ingredients:
- Heat the oil in a deep pot over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the onions, potatoes, tomatoes, and cilantro to the pot, stirring until the tomatoes soften and the ingredients combine.
Add Spices and Seasoning:
- Add the chicken bouillon cubes, salt, black pepper, cinnamon sticks, dried lemon (loomi), bay leaves, cardamom pods, and saffron (along with its soaking water).
- Stir continuously to evenly coat the ingredients with the spices.
Cook the Chicken:
- Pour 8 cups of water into the pot.
- Cover and cook over medium heat until the chicken and vegetables are fully cooked.
Add the Rice:
- Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, add the soaked rice to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook for 20 minutes, or until fully tender.
Serve:
- Carefully transfer the rice to a large serving platter and arrange the chicken pieces on top.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or toasted nuts, if desired.
Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic dish with your family, a true taste of the Gulf region's culinary heritage!

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